Thyroid gland is a major part of our endocrine system. It makes hormones that control your metabolism (the way your body uses energy), breathing, heart rate, nervous system, weight, body temperature, and many other functions in the body.
According to the Mayo Clinic, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is a condition in which your thyroid produces too much of the hormone thyroxine.
Hyperthyroidism can accelerate your body’s metabolism significantly, causing sudden weight loss, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating, and nervousness or irritability.
It can be serious if you ignore it, and sometimes, treatment of hyperthyroidism involves surgery to remove all or part of your thyroid gland.
When people suffer from hyperthyrodism, they often develop Grave’s disease. This disease causes protruding eyes, restless sleep, muscle weakness, and increased heartbeat.
Fortunately, there are natural solutions for balancing your thyroid function.
HOMEMADE TEA FOR OVERACTIVE THYROID (HYPERTHYROIDISM)
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an effective remedy for hyperthyroidism. Extracts from lemon balm have a restrictive effect on TSH which obstructs the activation of the thyroid gland. This in turn assists in reducing over secretion of thyroid hormone.
Studies have found that lemon balm blocks attachment of antibodies to the thyroid cells that cause Grave’s disease (hyperthyroidism).
Ingredients:
- two tablespoons of lemon balm
- one cup of boiling water
Directions:
- Steep two tablespoons of lemon balm to one cup of boiling water
- Let it steep for about five minutes
- Strain and cool
- Drink this tea 3 times a day.
You may start the treatment with a lesser dosage, about one-half or one teaspoon of lemon balm, and gradually increase the amount to two tablespoon.
Important: If you are taking sedatives (for insomnia or anxiety) or medications to regulate your thyroid, ask your doctor before taking lemon balm. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take lemon balm.