The thyroid is a small and unassuming butterfly-shaped organ that sits in our throats. Yet, it has an incredible impact on almost every aspect of our health. 

Unfortunately, modern life makes it challenging for the thyroid to function optimally. Stressful lifestyles, nutrient-poor diets, and toxic chemicals are all chronic issues that affect the thyroid. 

It’s no surprise, then, that so many people are suffering from thyroid problems: experts estimate that about 20 million Americans have some sort of thyroid disorder. One in eight women will have an issue with their thyroid at some point.

Why Thyroid Health Matters

Despite how common thyroid problems are, many people are still unaware of how it is connected to many of their health problems. Because the thyroid impacts almost every aspect of the body, it can affect even seemingly unrelated issues. 

The thyroid gland plays a significant role in metabolism, growth, and development. Its role changes throughout our lives and oversees how our bodies use energy and produce hormones on an as-needed basis. The thyroid specifically releases two critical hormones, T4 and T3, which communicate how much energy to utilize with the cells. 

The thyroid has an optimal range when working properly. Thyroid disorders come when the thyroid produces too much or too little hormone. Hypothyroidism is when the body has too little thyroid hormone. It is the most common cause of thyroid disorder. It causes many different symptoms, including:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Joint pain
• Low mood
• Hair loss
• Sensitivity to cold
• Muscle weakness
• Depression 
• Hoarse voice
• Decreased desire
• Low Stamina

There are various reasons why the thyroid produces too little hormone. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s disease, or autoimmune thyroiditis when the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid.

On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is when the body produces too much thyroid hormone leading to symptoms. The most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Trouble concentrating
• Increased appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Large, sometimes bulging eyes
• Thin and brittle hair
• Feeling nervous
• Heat intolerance
• Changes in menstrual cycle

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Grave’s disease, where the body attacks the thyroid and causes it to release too much hormone.

It is critical to consult with a medical professional if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms for an official diagnosis and treatment plan.

How Plants Support Thyroid Health

While medication may be necessary to treat thyroid disorders, lifestyle changes also significantly impact thyroid health. In addition, herbs and mushrooms contain powerful properties to help boost thyroid function and reduce the risk of developing a thyroid disorder.

For thousands of years, medical professionals worldwide have observed the potent effects of certain herbs, roots, and mushrooms. They have used these plants throughout the centuries to improve symptoms and bring relief to their patients.

Today, researchers have studied the benefits of these plants and found that they contain critical compounds to support optimal health. Our Thyroid Bundle combines many of these powerful ingredients in three convenient supplements. Each one is backed by both traditional use and scientific research to support thyroid health. The supplements in our bundle include:

All-Natural Thyroid Bundle, Powerful Adrenal & Endocrine Support

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a potent supplement in Ayurvedic medicine that’s use goes back thousands of years. It was traditionally used to increase energy, stamina, strength, and resiliency in the face of stress.

Science has confirmed many of these traditional uses and found them particularly useful for the thyroid.

Research on ashwagandha and the thyroid have been very promising. One 2018 study found that hypothyroid patients who took 600 mg daily showed a significant improvement in their serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) levels. Another study unrelated to thyroid disorders found that patients taking the herb experienced an increase in their T4 hormones.

This research suggests that ashwagandha is most appropriate for those with hypothyroidism and not those with Graves’ disease or another form of hyperthyroidism.

One of the main causes of Hashimoto’s disease is a high amount of stress and low immune function. Stress causes the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol hormones, which negatively affects the thyroid. Ashwagandha has been found in various studies to decrease anxiety in participants. One study found that the participants that took higher doses experienced lower stress.

Sleep is a critical factor in controlling many of the symptoms of thyroid disorders, yet these disorders often have clinical overlap with sleep disorders as well. It can be stressful for those thyroid issues that know that they need quality sleep yet cannot get it.

Ashwagandha can help. Recent studies found that those who took ashwagandha experienced better quality sleep.

In addition, muscle weakness is a common problem with hypothyroidism. Researchers found that ashwagandha has critical compounds to increase muscle strength. Studies found that the herb is useful for generalized weakness and strength training.

Siberian Eleuthero

Eleuthero is related to ginseng and can be found throughout Asia. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners have long used the plant to increase strength.

Modern research shows that certain compounds in eleuthero activate the body’s production of AMPK. AMPK helps speed up the metabolism, which is critical for improving energy levels.

Research shows that eleuthero can help improve overall muscle strength and energy. One study, in particular, discovered that it helped increase endurance in patients that had significant fatigue.

Considering that most people with hypothyroidism suffer from crippling fatigue, eleuthero’s energy-boosting effects could be beneficial.

Rhodiola Rosea

An herb that grows in the high regions in Europe and Asia, Rhodiola has long been prized by peoples in the mountain regions of Scandinavia and Russia for a wide variety of complaints, including depression, fatigue, and headaches.

Research has confirmed many of Rhodiola’s benefits, which have exciting implications for those who want to support their thyroid health.

One study, in particular, showed that Rhodiola improved symptoms in patients who had temporary hypothyroidism induced by hormone withdrawal. 

Scientists have also found that it reduces the risk of many of the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. Some research shows that the herb has antidepressant properties that can reduce symptoms of depression, which is common in thyroid disorders. In one study, it was as effective as a common antidepressant medication with fewer side effects. Another study found that it improved symptoms of mild and moderate depression.

Rhodiola also supports healthy energy levels. One study found it improved symptoms of chronic fatigue. Another found it helped reduce mental fatigue and enhance motivation.

Cordyceps

A type of fungus that grows in Asia, TCM practitioners, have long used cordyceps for its many benefits.

Inflammation is often a critical problem underlying most, if not all, autoimmune diseases, like those associated with hypo- and hyperthyroidism. Cordyceps can help support healthy inflammation and antibody levels in patients with thyroid issues.

One study found that it reduced antibodies in both Grave’s disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Another 2016 study also found that it also improved autoantibody levels found in hypo- and hyperthyroidism. 

Gynostemma

Gynostemma was nicknamed the “herb of immortality” because of its many health benefits.

In particular, gynostemma can help control stress and anxiety levels, which can be an issue with hypothyroidism. Studies have found it inhibited stress-induced anxiety in mice. Another study also found that it lowered anxiety that resulted from chronic psychological stress.

In addition, the plant also supports healthy energy and strength levels. One study found it improved the delivery of energy to the cells and improved muscle strength after exercise.

Astragalus

TCM practitioners have long used astragalus to treat a number of conditions. However, it was most noted for its ability to help the body fight stress.

Today, researchers have found that it helps improve energy levels. One study found that patients with chronic fatigue experience an improvement in their symptoms. Another trial on cancer patients found that it helped improve their extreme tiredness that often comes with treatment.

Licorice Root

A weed found throughout the world, health practitioners have long used licorice for a number of conditions. Its use goes back to ancient Egypt and is a staple in TCM.

Researchers have found that the root can help boost weight loss efforts. Unintentional weight gain is often an issue with hypothyroidism as it causes the metabolism to slow. One meta-analysis found that it significantly reduced body weight in participants. Another study found that it had a positive effect on obesity management.

Chaga

Found primarily in cold northern climates, Chaga is a black mushroom with impressive benefits. In fact, Russians have used it in their teas for hundreds of years to boost their health.

Chaga is full of anti-inflammatory properties that are critical for thyroid health. Research shows that it helps both reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Another study also found that it helped reduce inflammation in mice with autoimmune conditions.

In particular, one study found that it improved immunomodulation. This means that it helps the immune system work properly and lowers an overactive immune response, such as autoimmune disease.

Although it hasn’t been tested on humans yet, the research is promising.

Cracked Shell Reishi Spores

Nicknamed the “king of mushrooms,” reishi has long been used by Asian royalty for its many health benefits.

Studies show that reishi is full of powerful compounds that make it particularly helpful for lowering inflammation. It not only reduces inflammation but changes its pathways to promote health.

In addition to lowering inflammation, reishi is also particularly helpful for improving the stress response. One study found that it helped support healthy immune systems in athletes under stress.

Reishi can also help combat fatigue with its properties. One study found that patients with neurasthenia, a condition that presents with mental and physical exhaustion, had improved feelings of irritability, aches, and pains.

Turkey Tail Mushroom

Turkey tail is used throughout the world for its many benefits. From TCM to Japanese medicine to the Indigenous tribes in North America, many cultures recognize the many benefits of the mushroom.

Turkey tail works as an immunomodulating agent to help lower the immune system and aid the thyroid when it is under attack. One 2020 study found that it demonstrated immunomodulatory effects on the body.

Leaky gut is another common issue with thyroid disorders. Turkey tail is full of beneficial prebiotics to help boost the microbiome and support a healthy gut.

Maitake Mushroom

Revered by both TCM and Japanese medicine, maitake has potent properties to boost overall health. It is beneficial for providing balance to the immune system and lowering an overactive immune response, which is the case for most thyroid disorders.

Maitake is a particularly strong adaptogen that helps bring the body back into balance. One study found that it helped reduce stress levels when combined with ashwagandha. The mushroom helps support a healthy mood, which can be an issue with both hypo-and hyperthyroidisms.

Burdock Root

A vegetable found in Asia and Europe, burdock is related to daisies and utilized for various conditions.

Researchers have found that it helps support a number of processes in the body. Studies, for instance, found that it effectively detoxed the blood and supported circulation to the skin. This is particularly important for those with thyroid disorders. Toxins are impossible to avoid in modern life. They are in our food, air, water, everyday products, and more. However, toxins can cause the body to attack the thyroid. Burdock root can be a powerful ally to provide the body support under the assault.

L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid that is mainly found in green and black tea, although it is also in some mushrooms. In particular, l-theanine has been used to help relieve anxiety and promote a feeling of calm.

Studies have supported this claim. A 2019 randomized study found that it helped reduce stress and promote mental health. Another study also found that it reduced anxiety for participants going through stressful situations.

Stress and thyroid issues are often connected. L-theanine can be a particularly powerful compound to promote calm.

L-Tryptophan

Another critical amino acid, tryptophan, comes in two types: L-tryptophan and D-tryptophan. However, the only difference between the two is the molecule’s orientation. It is found in a number of high-protein foods. 

Tryptophan supports a number of critical processes in the body. In particular, it helps sleep and a healthy mood. One population study found that tryptophan was associated with reduced depression and better sleep. In addition, one small study found it was as effective as certain medications for lowering depressive symptoms.

Often, thyroid problems are accompanied by restless sleep and anxiety. Tryptophan can be a powerful aid to help promote wellbeing.

Griffonia Simplicidolia

Griffonia simplicidolia is an African plant and a particularly rich source of 5-HTP. It is often used to boost serotonin levels, which regulate multiple functions in the body. Most notably, serotonin regulates the mood and promotes wellbeing. 

Although more research needs to be done on both 5-HTP and Griffonia simplicidolia, the initial studies are promising. 

Studies show that 5-HTP increases the feeling of fullness, aiding weight loss efforts. Weight loss increases hunger-inducing hormones that can derail efforts to lose weight in the long term. Research shows that 5-HTP can combat this effect to help weight loss in overweight and obese people.

One study found that participants who supplemented with 5-HTP consumed 435 fewer calories a day than the placebo group.

Passion Flower

A native to South, Central, and North America, passion flower has been traditionally used as a sleep remedy.

Initial research has found that it can help treat anxiety and insomnia. One study found that participants that drank passion flower daily had improved sleep after seven days. Another trial also found that patients scheduled for surgery reported less anxiety than the placebo group.

Schisandra

A berry with a complex taste, Schisandra is used in Asia and Russia because of its many health properties.

Today, researchers have found that Schisandra has compounds that can help support the thyroid. The thyroid and adrenal glands are connected, and research shows a complex relationship between the two. Studies show that Schisandra helps support the optimal performance of the adrenal gland, which in turn supports the thyroid.

Its effect on the adrenal glands helped to increase heart rate and muscle strength in participants. 

In addition, initial research on the berry shows that it has mood-boosting and stress-relieving properties. Studies show it has antidepressant-like activity. Another study found that mice who took Schisandra had low-stress levels even in increasingly stressful situations.

Life Hacks for Thyroid Health

Get Iodine levels checked. Iodine deficiency is one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism. It is often useful for those with hypothyroidism to get their levels checked. However, iodine overdose is also detrimental to our health, so supplementation should be done under the supervision of a health professional.

Manage Stress. It’s difficult to avoid stress in the modern world. However, emotional stress, anxiety, fatigue, and depression interfere with adrenal function, which wears down the body, including the thyroid. Learn healthy stress-reduction techniques, including prayer, meditation, hobbies, exercise, and time with loved ones. For those experiencing anxiety or depression, seek help from a medical professional or therapist.

Improve Gut Health. Poor gut health is a common underlying factor with inflammation and autoimmune diseases. It can impair nutrient absorption, reduce oxygen to the organs and cause less blood flow through the gastrointestinal (or GI) tract. It can also impair enzyme production, making it challenging to digest certain foods such as grains, fats, and dairy.

Reduce Toxins. Chemical toxins, whether medication, hormone replacements, birth control, or commercial beauty or cleaning products, contribute to inflammation in the body and leaky gut. Reduce the use of toxic products and use natural alternatives. Also, decrease any unnecessary medication under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Get Thyroid Support for a More Vibrant Life

The thyroid is essential to so many aspects of a vibrant life. However, it needs support to continue producing optimal hormones and running correctly. With the right lifestyle changes and herbal support, the thyroid can stay healthy for years to come.

We put these thyroid-boosting plants in our three popular formulas: Endo Adrenal, Optimal Immune, and Tranquil Mind. Our Thyroid bundle harnesses the purest ingredients backed by tradition and science!