Tag Archives: natural herbs

Can Ashwagandha Support Hypothyroidism Treatment?

Hypothyroidism occurs when the body is not producing enough thyroid hormone.  As a result of this, an individual with hypothyroidism can experience fatigue, feeling cold often, weight gain, constipation, depression, and in some cases numbness and tingling of the hands and feet.  These symptoms can not only cause discomfort physically, but can also cause stress in the patient mentally due to the neurological effects it can have on the body.

Hypothyroidism and Inflammation

According to the American Thyroid Association, thyroiditis, or an inflammation of the thyroid, can lead to thyroid disorders.  While rapid thyroid cell damage leads to hyperthyroidism, the opposite is true for hypothyroidism.  A slow, chronic damage and destruction of thyroid cells can lead to a fall in thyroid levels in the blood.

Natural Thyroid Support

Ashwagandha is a popular herb know  for its anti-inflammatory properties.  Also known as Indian ginseng, ashwangandha has been found to relax the central nervous system. A 2014 study in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine suggests that ashwagandha may also help to increase thyroxine levels. Therefore, the herb may be helpful in supporting
treatment of hypothyroidism.

Thyradol is a supplement developed by Vitasciences that contains ashwagandha along with other thyroid supportive compounds such as B12 and selenium.   Therefore, instead of taking a handful of supplements, thyradol can make taking care of your thyroid simple.

Visit the American Thyroid Association at thyroid.org to show your support for thyroid awareness and research.

-by Staci Gulbin, MS, MEd, RD, LDN

 

Sources:

American Thyroid Association (accessed 2017 Jan 21) “Thyroiditis” http://www.thyroid.org/thyroiditis/

Gannon, J.M., et al. (2014 Oct-Dec). “Subtle Changes in Thyroid Indices During a Placebo-Controlled Study of an Extract of Withania somnifera in Persons With Bipolar Disorder.” Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(4): 241-245.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (2015 Dec 29) “Ashwangandha.” https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/ashwagandha

University of Maryland Medical Center (2016 April 27) “Hypothyroidism.” http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/hypothyroidism

Natural Herbs, so you can Relax

Supplements such as 5-HTP, GABA, and green tea extract are safe, natural herbs that can help you relax, sleep better at night and lift your mood. Scientific research supports the use of supplements for anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia.

natural herbs, relax, stress

Sleep better and fight stress with these natural herbs.

Natural herbs for better relaxation

For centuries, people have used natural herbs to promote good health. In recent years, we have developed the ability to analyze herbs our ancestors used for relaxation, energy, and mood. Through scientific testing, we can objectively identify the therapeutic properties of such healthy supplements.

Natural Herbs…Relax!

Supplements such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), theanine, tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) are reported to promote relaxation…based on cellular and animal studies as well as human clinical trials the literature supports a role for these preparations as useful alternatives in the management of the stress and anxiety of everyday life.

-Benjamin S. Weeks, Med Sci Monit 2009; 15(11): RA256-262

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

GABA is an amino acid produced in the brain which helps to regulate cognitive and neurological functioning. It’s has a naturally calming effect on the nerves. Supplements with GABA are excellent for reducing tension, promoting restful sleep, and elevating the mood.

L-theanine- Camellia Sinensis Extract

L-theanine is a green tea leaf extract that is used for its multiple health benefits. Tea has rich sources of flavonoid antioxidants, as well as the amino acid, L-theanine. Placebo studies found it effective for enhancing mental focus, promoting relaxation and reducing depression, without any negative side effects.

5-HTP mood enhancer- Griffonia Simplicifolia extract

5- HTP (5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan) is helpful for mood and sleep difficulties. Through serotonin regulation, this beneficial ingredient reduces stress and lifts the mood. Decreased serotonin causes lasting depression, while increased serotonin helps to balance the mood. Griffonia Simplicifolia, a tropical shrubbery, contains rich amounts of 5-HTP. Use daily to maintain healthy levels of the serotonin neurotransmitter in the brain. Effective for depression, nervousness, and sleep problems.

Getting the most out of natural treatments

Many forms of natural herbs and vitamins are available for good health, including some that are taken orally in pill form or liquid, as well as in a spray. For maximum absorption, doctors recommend using a vitamin-enriched lotion. Science proves that nutrients enter the body most efficiently when applied directly to the skin.

Theracalm stress relief cream- buy it here natural herbs relax

TheraCALM  stress relief cream helps you sleep better and control stress levels. Buy it here for $19.95

 

Sources:

Formulations of dietary supplements and herbal extracts for relaxation and anxiolytic action: Relarian

Anxiolytic-like effect of Griffonia simplicifolia Baill. seed extract in rats.

L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state.