Endocrine System – Hormones Part 3: Thyroid Gland

The Thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland consisting of follicles that produce the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both these thyroid hormones require iodine for their production.

Endocrine System – Hormones Part 3: Thyroid Gland

The Thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the lower neck. The thyroid gland is rich in a vascular network of blood capillaries. The gland is made up of two lobes, one on either side of the trachea, which is the airway for breathing.

The Thyroid gland tissue consists of follicles that produce two thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both these thyroid hormones require iodine for their production. Iodine must be taken in through diet for the thyroid gland to produce the thyroid hormones.

Hormones act like chemical messages and get circulated through the blood by the cardiovascular system to their target organ and cells. Only the cells with that specific receptor for the hormone will be able to be influenced by that hormone in the target cells.

The hormones produced by the thyroid gland, T3 and T4, regulate the body’s metabolism and the way energy is used. Changes to the function of the thyroid gland can have an impact on body temperature control, body weight, nervous system regulation, and muscle strength.

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid (HPT) axis is a complex neuroendocrine system that regulates the production of thyroid hormone secretion in the body. It involves interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid gland, as well as feedback mechanisms to maintain thyroid hormone levels within a narrow range.

Below is a diagram of the Endocrine system illustrating communication between the hypothalamus, pituitary glands, and their respective hormones that occur to keep homeostasis in the body.

Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus, located in the brain, serves as the control center for the HPT axis. It produces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in response to signals from various stimuli, such as changes in body temperature, metabolism, and stress levels.

TRH is released into the bloodstream and travels to the pituitary gland, where it stimulates the synthesis and secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Pituitary Gland

The pituitary gland is often referred to as the ‘master gland’ in the endocrine system. It is a pea-sized gland located in the base of the brain. It consists of two main parts.

Anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis)
Posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis)

In response to TRH stimulation, the anterior pituitary releases TSH into the bloodstream. TSH acts on the thyroid gland to regulate thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion.

TSH binds to specific receptors on the surface of thyroid follicular cells, stimulating the uptake of iodine and the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland as mentioned above, is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the lower neck. The HPT Axis involves interactions between the hypothalamus, and pituitary gland in regulating the thyroid hormones through a feedback system. The hypothalamus releases TRH which in turn stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

The thyroid gland synthesizes and secretes thyroid hormones T3 and T4 in response to TSH stimulation. Thyroid follicular cells within the thyroid gland produce and store thyroid hormones, which are iodine-containing compounds synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine.

T4 is the predominant thyroid hormone secreted by the thyroid gland (about 80%) and it serves as a prohormone and is converted into the more active hormone T3, in peripheral tissues by the enzyme 5′-deiodinase which can be used by the body.

The diagram below shows the HPT Axis feedback system.

The HPT axis is tightly regulated by feedback mechanisms to maintain thyroid hormone levels within a narrow range. Negative feedback loops help prevent overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones.

Elevated levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) in the bloodstream inhibit the release of TRH and TSH from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, respectively. This negative feedback loop helps regulate thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion.

Conversely, decreased levels of thyroid hormones stimulate the release of TRH and TSH, leading to increased thyroid hormone production and secretion to restore normal levels.

thyroid hormones

The thyroid gland produces thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) hormones. TSH from the Pituitary gland stimulates the thyroid gland to release T4 (80%) and T3 (20%) hormones. Thyroxine is converted into a more active form of T3 in various tissues in the body.

Thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) play a critical role in regulating metabolism by influencing the rate at which cells use energy. They increase oxygen consumption and heat production (thermogenesis) in cells, leading to increased metabolic activity.

Thyroid hormones also affect carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as cholesterol levels and body weight. Thyroxine also plays a role in the growth and development of skeletal bones in young children.

Iodine and Selenium

Iodine is an essential mineral required by the thyroid to produce the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). Iodine is essential to be taken in through diet. A deficiency leads to the thyroid not being able to produce thyroid hormones.

Selenium is a trace element to aids in thyroid health. It protects DNA by fighting cell damage and infection. The protein molecules in selenium also play an important part in thyroid hormone production.

Foods high in Iodine and Selenium

Protein-rich foods meat and eggs
Nuts and pumpkin seeds
Fish like sardines and anchovies
Leafy green vegetables
Coconut and coconut oil

Thyroid gland disorders

Some conditions identified with thyroid gland as disorders include

Other conditions of the thyroid gland will influence the working

Goitre

Goitre is a condition where the thyroid gland grows larger and may be associated with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, or with normal levels of thyroid hormones. Causes of goitre include iron deficiency, graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s disease, thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), pregnancy, and thyroid cancer. The main symptoms of goiter could include a lump in front of the neck that feels nodular or smooth, tightness in the throat, and difficulty swallowing.

Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies stimulate the thyroid gland to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Thyroid function is regulated by the pituitary gland. The antibody associated with Graves’ disease, thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb), acts like the regulatory pituitary hormone. That means that TRAb overrides the normal regulation of the thyroid, causing an overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism).

Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism and may lead to symptoms such as weight loss, enlarged thyroid gland (Goitre), rapid heartbeat, anxiety, fine tremor of hands or fingers, and bulging eyes (Graves’ ophthalmopathy), thick, red skin usually (Graves’ dermopathy)

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)

TED Also known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy or thyroid-associated orbitopathy, is an autoimmune condition associated with Graves’ disease. It causes inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the eyes, leading to symptoms such as bulging eyes (exophthalmos), eyelid retraction, double vision, or eye discomfort.

Thyroiditis

A condition that refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune diseases (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, and postpartum thyroiditis), viral or bacterial infections, medications, or radiation therapy. Thyroiditis may lead to hyperthyroidism (inflammation-induced release of thyroid hormones) or hypothyroidism (damage to thyroid tissue leading to reduced hormone production.

Subacute Thyroiditis

Also known as DeQuervain’s thyroiditis or granulomatous thyroiditis, subacute thyroiditis is a temporary condition characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland. It typically presents with symptoms of hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism as the thyroid gland becomes damaged. Subacute thyroiditis is often triggered by viral infections.

Thyroid Nodules

Abnormal growths or lumps that form within the thyroid gland. Most nodules are benign (non-cancerous), but some may be cancerous (thyroid cancer). Thyroid nodules may be asymptomatic or present with symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or a visible neck lump.

Thyroid Hormone Resistance

A rare genetic disorder where thyroid hormone receptors in cells are less responsive to thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms of hypothyroidism despite normal or elevated thyroid hormone levels in the bloodstream. It is usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.

Thyroid Cancer

Abnormal cells within the thyroid gland grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. There are different types of thyroid cancer, including papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular thyroid carcinoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Symptoms may include a neck lump, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or enlarged lymph nodes. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of thyroid cancer but may include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, thyroid hormone therapy, and external beam radiation therapy.

Modern Medical Treatments

Medical treatment options to treat the conditions associated with the thyroid gland, often suppress the normal HPT axis and feedback mechanism. The medication would add in synthetic hormones and support imbalanced hormonal pathways, but once removed, the imbalance returns alongside the underlying illness.

Hypothyroidism is treated by giving Thyroxine (T4) hormones. The administration of T4 causes less TRH and TSH to be secreted by the hypothalamus and pituitary glands respectively, often leading to the reduced normal functioning of the HPT axis pathway.

Hypothyroidism is also treated by giving a high dosage of iodine that will inhibit the absorption by the thyroid gland. This will block the production and secretion of thyroid hormones completely, pushing the thyroid function into an underactive state.

Hyperthyroidism is treated whereby medication is given to block the production and secretion of T4 and T3 and the conversion of T4 to T3 in the body. This prevents too many thyroid hormones are produced to balance the levels in the blood. Treatment options also include radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid surgery to reduce hormone production.

Please note, that if you’re using chronic medication, you should continue to do so. The treatment protocols for thyroid gland conditions should be used in addition to medication and the aim is to reduce the chronic medication over time. Oils and herbs work on different mechanisms in the body and each person’s healing will be individual.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It is also known as Underactive Thyroid. Common causes include autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, iodine deficiency, medications, or pituitary gland dysfunction.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism usually develop slowly, and you may not realize that they all relate to the health of the thyroid gland. These symptoms include

tiredness and fatigue
being sensitive to cold
weight gain
constipation
depression
slow movements and thoughts
muscle aches and weakness
muscle cramps
dry and scaly skin
brittle hair and nails
loss of libido (sex drive)
pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in the hand and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome)
irregular periods or heavy periods

Elderly people with an underactive thyroid may develop memory problems and depression. Children may experience slower growth and development. Teenagers may start puberty earlier than normal.

Hypothyroidism Treatment Protocol

NOTE: If you do use chronic medication, you should continue to do so. The treatment protocol should be used in addition to medication and the aim is to reduce the chronic medication over time. Oils and herbs work on different mechanisms in the body and each person’s healing will be individual.

Drink 1 capsule of the following after a meal or a small snack:

Thyroid Blend and DNA Protector, once a day.

Apply once a day:

3 drops, Thyroid Blend, over the thyroid
5 drops, DNA Protector, over the neck

You can also supplement with Hypo Thyroid herbal capsules.

Diffuse (see below), 4 drops each, to aid symptoms; Depression and Anxiety, Joy, and Memory.

Diffuse 2-3 drops of each oil; maximum 10-12 drops in total, at a time, unless otherwise advised.

NOTE: Always use an ultrasonic diffuser (with a diffusing duration of at least 8 hours), to diffuse pure essential oils. Do not use a humidifier, air purifier, or a candle, as they only smell good and have no further effect. An electric, ultrasonic, diffuser dispenses essential oils into the air through vibrations of a plate which causes ultrasonic waves, creating microscopic particles of oils that disperse into the air. It, therefore, breaks open the essential oil volatile molecules, to have a medicinal effect in that it can penetrate through the blood-brain barrier. It is always good to use a diffuser at night while you are sleeping.

In addition

Thyroid support – rub 2 to 4 drops each; Lemongrass 5ml 10ml and Myrrh 5ml 10ml directly to the thyroid and wrists multiple times, daily.

Ashwagandha – helps hypothyroidism patients significantly increase thyroxine hormone levels, which can reduce the severity of the disorder.

Iodine + Selenium – promotes healthy thyroid function. If you have an autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s, consult with a medical professional before taking iodine.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, also called overactive thyroid is a condition where the thyroid produces and releases high levels of thyroid hormone. The condition causes the body’s metabolism to speed up and increases heart rate, appetite, and weight loss.

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is autoimmune thyroiditis (Graves’ disease), where antibodies stimulate the thyroid gland to produce excess hormones. Other causes may include thyroid nodules (toxic adenomas), thyroiditis, or excessive intake of thyroid hormone medication.

Excess levels of thyroid hormones can then speed up the body’s metabolism, triggering a range of symptoms, such as:

weight loss
rapid heart rate (tachycardia) and palpitations
heat intolerance
sweating
tremors and muscle weakness
anxiety
insomnia
frequent bowel movements
infrequent or light periods
infertility

Hyperthyroidism Treatment Protocol

Drink 1 capsule Thyroid Support Blend, once a day, and also apply 3 drops over the thyroid, once a day.

Drink 1 capsule DNA Protector, once a day, and also apply 5 drops over the neck area, once a day.

When applying more than one oil blend to the same area, do so over the course of the day or wait 10 minutes in between.

Drink 1 capsule Chronic Fatigue, in the morning.

Diffuse (see below) 3 drops of each, Sleep Blend (for diffuser) and Depression/Anxiety Blend (for diffuser), at night, while sleeping.

You may also supplement with Hyper Thyroid (overactive) herbal capsules.

Diffuse 2-3 drops of each oil; maximum 10-12 drops in total, at a time, unless otherwise advised.

Hashimoto’s Disease

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and destruction of thyroid tissue. Over time, this results in hypothyroidism as the thyroid gland becomes unable to produce enough thyroid hormones. As the condition slowly progresses, your thyroid gland will sometimes become enlarged, known as Goitre, and is commonly the first sign of Hashimoto’s disease. The decline in thyroid hormone production can result in the following symptoms.

fatigue and sluggishness
increased sensitivity to cold
sleepiness
dry skin and hair
constipation
muscle weakness, aches, and stiffness
irregular or excessive menstrual bleeding
depression and poor memory or concentration
swelling of the thyroid (goiter) and tongue
a puffy face, brittle nails, and hair loss
infertility and low libido

Hypothyroidism during pregnancy usually is diagnosed as Hashimoto’s disease. Thyroid hormones are important for foetal development and that of the brain and nervous system. Untreated or insufficiently treated hypothyroidism during pregnancy may lead to complications like miscarriage or preterm labor and development.

Hashimoto’s Treatment Protocol

Apply a few drops of Thyroid Support Blend over the thyroid, twice a day

Drink one capsule, once a day.

Drink 1 capsule each; DNA Protector and Gut Cleanse, once a day.

Also apply 5 drops, of DNA Protector over the neck, once a day.

Drink 1 capsule, Chronic Fatigue, twice a day, for the first week, after that, once a day. This blend assists with the recovery and restoration of energy levels.

Apply 10 drops, Hormone Balance over the lower stomach and navel, every morning.

To support hair growth, massage 15 drops of the Hair Growth blend into the scalp before bed and wash hair the next morning, 2-3 times a week. Also, see Organic Shampoo and Conditioner available.

If you have to drink more than one capsule a day, drink them over the course of the day, never more than two capsules at a time. Spreading the capsules throughout the day assists the body with proper absorption. Always good to have a very small snack/fruit before drinking capsules.

Parathyroid gland

Although their names are similar, the parathyroid glands and the thyroid gland are not related in their function. The position of the four parathyroid glands is on the posterior parts of the thyroid glands and they secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Parathyroid hormone is the most important regulator of blood calcium levels. It does that by causing bone, the primary storage of calcium, to release calcium into the blood, supporting absorption of calcium from nutrition and causing kidneys to retain calcium instead of secretion of calcium in the urine.

The hormone PTH is secreted in response to low blood calcium levels, and its effect is to increase those levels. Calcium levels in extracellular fluids serve to support a range of essential physiological processes including proper neuromuscular function, exocrine and endocrine secretion, mineralization of bone, and cell growth and differentiation.

Conditions associated with the Parathyroid

Hypoparathyroidism

Insufficient secretion of parathyroid hormone, leads to increased nervous system activity. The low blood calcium levels may trigger continuous nerve impulses, stimulating muscle contraction.

Hyperparathyroidism

Over-secretion of PTH can lead to weakened bones, kidney stones, and other complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure, digestive system problems, fatigue, depression and confusion, muscle weakness, and aches and pains in bones and joints.

Practical Guidance

Lifestyle habits are very important in the management of health. As discussed, many factors can lead to experiencing changes in hormones from the thyroid gland, and overall signs and symptoms of a lack of balance in the body.

To help restore normal and hormonal functions in the body it is necessary to look at nutrition and essential nutrients and natural products that support thyroid health and regulate healthy hormone balance.

nutrition

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

Iodine-rich foods: Incorporate iodine-rich foods such as iodized salt, seaweed, seafood, dairy products, and eggs. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, and inadequate intake can exacerbate hypothyroidism.

Selenium-Rich Foods: Consume selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, sardines, tuna, chicken, turkey, and whole grains. Selenium is necessary for the conversion of thyroid hormone T4 to the active form T3 and has antioxidant properties that support thyroid health.

Lean Proteins: Include lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, legumes, tofu, and low-fat dairy products. Protein is crucial for thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism.

Whole Grains: Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole wheat bread, which provides complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients such as B vitamins and fibre.

Fruits and Vegetables: Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, aiming for a colorful mix to obtain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. Leafy greens, berries, carrots, and bell peppers are particularly beneficial.

Healthy Fats: Incorporate healthy fats from sources such as avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel, trout) may help reduce inflammation and support thyroid function.

Probiotic-Rich Foods: Include probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to support gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for nutrient absorption and immune function.

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

High-Fibre Foods: Choose high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts to help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation, which may occur with hyperthyroidism.

Lean Proteins: Lean protein sources like poultry, fish, tofu, legumes, and low-fat dairy products support muscle maintenance and repair without excessive calorie intake.

Calcium-rich foods: Consume calcium-rich foods like dairy products (low-fat or non-fat milk, yogurt, cheese), leafy greens (kale, spinach, collard greens), and fortified plant-based milk alternatives. Hyperthyroidism can increase the risk of bone loss, so adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health.

Iron-rich foods: Include iron-rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens to prevent or address anaemia, which may occur with hyperthyroidism.

Anti-inflammatory Foods: Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, olive oil, berries, and turmeric. These foods may help reduce inflammation associated with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Graves’ disease.

Limit Stimulants: Limit or avoid stimulants such as caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) and refined sugars, as they may exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism like palpitations, nervousness, and insomnia.

Pure Essential Oils

Several pure essential oils support thyroid gland function. Some examples are:

Frankincense Oil: contains boswellic acids, incensole acetate, and alpha-pinene. Frankincense oil exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. While there’s limited direct evidence linking frankincense oil to thyroid health, its anti-inflammatory effects could theoretically support thyroid function by reducing inflammation in the gland.

Myrrh Oil: contains sesquiterpenes, terpenoids, and curzerene. Myrrh oil possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, like frankincense oil. It may help modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation throughout the body, potentially benefiting thyroid health by mitigating autoimmune responses and inflammation in the thyroid gland.

Lavender Oil: contains Linalool, linalyl acetate, and ocimene. Lavender oil has been studied for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and stress-reducing effects. Chronic stress and anxiety can impact thyroid function by dysregulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels, lavender oil may indirectly support optimal thyroid function.

Peppermint Oil: contains Menthol, menthone, and limonene. Peppermint oil exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While there’s limited direct evidence of its effects on thyroid function, peppermint oil’s potential to alleviate pain, inflammation, and fatigue could improve overall well-being in individuals with thyroid disorders.

Rosemary Oil: active ingredients are rosmarinic acid, camphor, and 1,8-cineole. Rosemary oil possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. By mitigating inflammation and oxidative damage, rosemary oil supports thyroid health and overall metabolic function.

Sandalwood Oil: Sandalwood oil’s santalol and alpha-santalol compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, potentially attenuating autoimmune responses in the thyroid gland. By modulating immune function and reducing inflammation, sandalwood oil may support thyroid hormone homeostasis.

Roman Chamomile Oil: contains chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol constituents that possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may help reduce thyroid gland inflammation and autoimmune activity. By mitigating inflammation, Roman chamomile oil may support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Clary Sage Oil: contains linalyl acetate and linalool compounds that may exert hormone-regulating effects by modulating estrogen and cortisol levels. By balancing hormone levels, clary sage oil may indirectly influence thyroid hormone production and metabolism.

Geranium Oil: contains geraniol and citronellol compounds that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the thyroid gland. By protecting thyroid cells from damage, geranium oil may support thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion.

Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil’s eucalyptol compound exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting inflammatory mediators and cytokines. While not directly affecting thyroid hormones, eucalyptus oil’s anti-inflammatory actions may contribute to thyroid tissue health and function.

Cedarwood Oil: Cedarwood oil’s cedrol and alpha-cedrene compounds possess anti-inflammatory and calming properties, potentially reducing inflammation and stress in the thyroid gland. By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, cedarwood oil may indirectly support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Ginger Oil: Ginger oil’s gingerol and zingiberene compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the thyroid gland. By protecting thyroid cells from damage, ginger oil may support thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion.

Bergamot Oil: Bergamot oil’s linalool and limonene compounds possess mood modulating effects by influencing neurotransmitter activity and stress hormone levels. By reducing stress and anxiety, bergamot oil may indirectly support thyroid hormone production and metabolism.

Lemongrass Oil: Lemongrass oil’s citral and geraniol compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the thyroid gland. By protecting thyroid cells from damage, lemongrass oil may support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Patchouli Oil: patchoulol and alpha-bulnesene compounds possess anti-inflammatory and calming properties, potentially reducing inflammation and stress in the thyroid gland. By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, patchouli oil may indirectly support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Juniper Berry Oil: Juniper berry oil’s alpha-pinene and myrcene compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the thyroid gland. By protecting thyroid cells from damage, juniper berry oil may support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Marjoram Oil: Marjoram oil’s terpinen-4-ol and gamma-terpinene compounds possess anti-inflammatory and calming properties, potentially reducing inflammation and stress in the thyroid gland. By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, marjoram oil may indirectly support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Ylang-Ylang Oil: Ylang-Ylang oil’s benzyl acetate and linalool compounds possess mood-regulating effects, potentially reducing stress and anxiety. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormone levels, ylang-ylang oil may indirectly support thyroid hormone production and metabolism.

Helichrysum Oil: Helichrysum oil’s italidiones and curcumene compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the thyroid gland. By protecting thyroid cells from damage, helichrysum oil may support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Cypress Oil: Cypress oil’s alpha-pinene and delta-3-carene compounds possess anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive properties, potentially reducing inflammation and improving circulation in the thyroid gland. By promoting better blood flow and reducing inflammation, cypress oil may indirectly support thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation.

Haddasah Healing Oils have specific oil blends to help support Thyroid function.

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herbal supplements

Several herbs are commonly used to support thyroid gland function. Some examples are

Ashwagandha – active ingredients withanolides and sitoindosides, known as an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps to balance cortisol levels and modulate stress responses. It also contains antioxidants that may protect the thyroid gland from oxidative damage. Additionally, studies suggest that ashwagandha may enhance thyroid hormone levels by stimulating the production of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) hormones.

Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) – contains Iodine, fucoidan, and alginates. Bladderwrack is rich in iodine, a crucial nutrient for thyroid hormone synthesis. Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid dysfunction, and supplementation with bladderwrack may help support optimal thyroid function by providing the necessary iodine. Additionally, bladderwrack contains compounds like fucoidan and alginates that may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing inflammation in the thyroid gland.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) – contains eleutherosides and polysaccharides and is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body adapt to stress and regulate cortisol levels. By modulating the stress response, Siberian ginseng may indirectly support thyroid function, as chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid hormone levels. Additionally, Siberian ginseng may enhance energy levels and metabolism, which can benefit individuals with hypothyroidism.

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) – Eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and flavonoids possess adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, helping to mitigate the effects of stress and reduce oxidative damage in the body, including the thyroid gland. Studies suggest that holy basil may also help regulate thyroid hormone levels by influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis and enhancing thyroid function.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – contains rosmarinic acid, and flavonoids and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress and inflammation. Studies suggest that lemon balm may also have thyroid-stimulating effects, potentially enhancing thyroid hormone production and metabolism.

Nettle (Urtica dioica) – Flavonoids and phenolic compounds in Nettle are also rich in nutrients like iron, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential for thyroid function. Additionally, nettle contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the thyroid gland. Nettle may also support thyroid health by improving overall nutrient status in the body.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) – Rosavins and salidroside compounds are an adaptogenic herb that helps the body adapt to stress and improve energy levels. By reducing stress and fatigue, rhodiola may indirectly support thyroid function. Studies suggest that rhodiola may also enhance thyroid hormone levels by stimulating thyroid gland activity and increasing thyroid hormone receptor sensitivity.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – Curcumin and turmerones are potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds Curcumin may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the thyroid gland, supporting thyroid health. Additionally, studies suggest that curcumin may have immunomodulatory effects, potentially helping to regulate immune responses in autoimmune thyroid conditions.

Haddasah Healing Oils have herbal ranges precisely formulated to treat and restore support thyroid function.

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Spiritual Guidance

Proverbs 3:7-8

“Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.”

Wisdom is key when seeking healing. This verse encourages us to trust in God’s wisdom rather than relying solely on our understanding. As we fear the Lord and turn away from evil, His healing power will bring health to our bodies, including the delicate balance of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid gland disorder results from the off-balance of hormones that do not align with each other to produce harmony in the body. There are situations and factors in a person’s life that bring the body’s health out of alignment with itself as well as the lack of alignment with the sustainer and healer of our body – Yeshua, Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Hypothyroidism does have a root of long-term fear, anxiety, and stress on the body. When the root issues of low self-esteem, self-hatred, fear, and anxiety are eliminated through ministry and renewing your mind (i.e. changing your thinking) with the truth of the Word, the thyroid will recover, kick back into balance, and begin secreting thyroid hormones correctly again. Hypothyroidism is considered incurable in the medical field. However, it is curable through the grace and mercy of God when His conditions for healing are met.

Hyperthyroidism and Grave’s disease can be triggered by emotional shock or a prolonged period of anxiety. Grave’s disease is also an autoimmune disease in which your thought life is dominated by self-hatred, self-rejection, self-condemnation, and guilt, the reaction via the mind-body connection is your immune system attacking your body tissue.

It would help if you dealt with the root of the problem to be permanently healed. Medical drugs are not the ultimate answer because they do not deal with the underlying issues. It would help if you parallelled that by dealing with the toxic mindsets that are causing hyperthyroidism.

Information gained from book written by Dr MK Strydom – ‘Healing Begins with Sanctification of the Heart’ – DR MK Strydom. Second edition 2010. and The Bible from a Medical Perspective, Medicine from a Biblical Perspective. Dr MK Strydom, Eagle Wings 2017

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Endocrine System – Hormones Part 3: Thyroid Gland