Almost 20 million Americans suffer from thyroid disease (1). Rather than deciding on prescription medication or lifetime synthetic hormones, it could be a good idea to look into diet and lifestyle changes to help support and heal your thyroid. Today, we’re talking about essential oils for hyperthyroidism, an all-natural way to support common symptoms that come with hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism, unlike hypothyroidism, happens when the thyroid is overactive. Though science doesn’t truly know the cause, it is believed to be caused by benign lumps in the gland and as a result of the autoimmune disorder, Grave’s disease. Grave’s disease is thought to cause the immune system to create an antibody that causes an overproduction of thyroid hormones. What we do know for sure, though, are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:
- Weight loss, even when your diet is normal
- Anxiety or trembling
- Dry, irritated, or thin skin
- A fast or irregular heartbeat
- Sleep disturbances and insomnia
- Intolerance to heat
These symptoms are when essential oils come in to save the day! Oils are natural remedies that will work hard to ease symptoms and support a well-functioning, healthy thyroid.
5 Essential Oils for Hyperthyroidism
Ginger
This anti-inflammatory essential oil is ideal for supporting thyroid health. Some studies discovered that ginger essential oil has similar properties to NSAIDs (1).
Because most believe that hyperthyroidism occurs because of Grave’s disease, ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties could inhibit the kind of inflammation that results from autoimmune conditions.
How To: Mix 1-2 drops of ginger essential oil with raw honey and add to hot tea or water. Diffuse 4-5 drops and inhale deeply. Mix 1 drop with ½ teaspoon of carrier oil and apply it to your pulse points
Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil can help lower inflammation and ease stress that is associated with hyperthyroidism. Stress is known to weaken immunity, and a weak immune system is the breeding place of autoimmune conditions.
How To: Mix 1 drop with raw honey and add to hot water to make a bright, strong tasting tea. Add 4-5 drops in a diffuser for aromatic benefits.
Myrrh
This potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant has been used for centuries and praised for its healing properties. Not only will myrrh work to calm anxiety and skin, but it will also relax the entire body allowing it space to heal.
How To: Mix 4-5 drops with a cup of Epsom salt and add to a warm bath. Soak for 15-30 minutes. Add 4-5 drops to a diffuser to calm anxiety.
Juniper Berry
Juniper berry essential oil for thyroid health could support sleeplessness and anxiety, a common issue for those with hyperthyroidism. Its potent antioxidant properties can potentially enhance the body’s ability to recover.
How To: Drop 4-5 drops in a diffuser at night for insomnia or anxiety.
*do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney problems.
DoTERRA Cellular Complex Blend
This blend of high-grade essential oils works on many levels: it helps to alleviate inflammation, protects cells from stress, eases anxiety, and boosts the immune system.
This combo makes it a fabulous ally for a variety of hyperthyroidism symptoms.
How To: Mix 1 drop with raw honey and add to tea or hot water. Diffuse 4-5 drops for aromatic benefits. Mix 1-2 drops with ½ teaspoon – 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to pain points.
DIY Recipes Essential Oils for Hyperthyroidism
STRESS-EASE BATH SALTS
- 1 Cup of Epsom salt
- 3 Drops Frankincense Essential Oil
- 2 Drops Myrrh Essential Oil
- 2 Drops Juniper Berry Essential Oil
Mix oils with Epsom salts and then add to a warm bath. Soak for 15-30 minutes. This anti-inflammatory combo is extremely grounding and will help soothe anxious feelings, ease aches and pains and help alleviate skin issues.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY SUPPORT FOR HYPERTHYROIDISM
- 1 Drop of doTERRA cellular complex blend
- 1 Drop of Ginger Essential Oil
Mix with a ½-1 teaspoon of raw honey and then add to a mug of hot water. If you’re a fan of hot toddies, this earthy and citrusy drink will be perfect for helping ease inflammation and boost immunity.
Other ways to support your thyroid
If you’re looking for more natural ways to support your thyroid in addition to essential oils, look no further than what you put on your plate.
Real, whole foods are an incredible way to support and heal your thyroid. Some wonderful supportive foods to include in your diet are artichokes, bananas, celery (juice and sticks), potatoes, barley grass, garlic, and radishes.
Add these foods to smoothies, salads, or meals for some extra love and support. Now that you have great all-natural tools for hypothyroidism, what are you most excited to try first?
Cites
- Natural Endocrine Solutions (2018). “Ginger and Thyroid Health.” Retrieved from: https://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/ginger-thyroid-health/
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