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Chinese Herbs for an Underactive Thyroid

An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, occurs when your thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones. Traditional methods of treatment involve the administration of daily thyroid hormone replacement drugs. An alternative form of treatment may include taking Chinese herbs.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include excessive fatigue, hair loss, dry skin, heart palpitations, feeling cold, tongue abnormalities, constipation, chest pain, slow pulse, and pale skin.

    Diagnosis

    • According to tcmpage.com, an underactive thyroid is considered a yang deficiency under the yin and yang balance represented in traditional Chinese medicine . Deficiencies of your heart, kidney, and spleen related to hypothyroidism may be treated with certain Chinese herbs.

    Herbs

    • Chinese herbs commonly used to treat hypothyroidism include ginseng, aconite, and cinnamon.

    Recipe

    • Tcmpage.com recommends a recipe of other Chinese herbs for an underactive thyroid that can be eaten three times a week. Mix a half pound of carp, 20 grams of ginger, 10 grams of tangerine peel, and 3 grams of pepper. Cook in water for one hour.

    Supplements

    • There are also Chinese herbal supplements available on the market to help an underactive thyroid. One example is Thyro-Lo, according to Kwintessential. Always ask your health care provider before taking such supplements or other herbs for hypothyroid treatment.

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