Thyroid disorders are of different forms. It may range from a small, harmless goiter (enlarged gland) that needs no treatment to life-threatening cancer. Since our thyroid gland is the one that influences almost all of the metabolic processes in your body, it’s important that we take good care of it. One may experience several symptoms if this gland is over-or under-functioning. Some of these symptoms are weakness and fatigue, depression, nervousness, poor concentration, and joint aches and pains.
Here are some of the good tonics we can try to help our thyroid to function at its best.
Maca
Maca is a relative of the radish and has an odor similar to butterscotch. Its root is used to make medicine. Present in this vegetable crop are essential nutrients – vitamin B, C, and E – which are all needed by our thyroid to regulate metabolism and energy levels as well as to produce hormone. This tonic is also useful in improving our mood and controlling hormonal communication.
Enjoy maca tonic by combining a scoop of it with 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon and ginger. Then, add a half teaspoon of honey and warm coconut milk.
Ginger
Aside from being a flavorful additive for cooking and baking, ginger may also improve health. It has been used for thousands of years as an herbal remedy in numerous forms of health problems. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and pain-relieving properties that are beneficial in dealing with chronic conditions. Experts have found that is can lower our risk of a low-functioning thyroid and cardiovascular problems.
Make ginger tea by adding 3-4 slices of ginger root to a saucepan with 3-4 cups of boiling water and simmer it for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the ginger slices and add honey. Serve and enjoy!
Dandelion
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, dandelion can help balance our immune system and calm the autoimmune flares.
Make a dandelion tea by steeping 2 teaspoons of dried dandelion root and leaves and some fresh lemon zest for 15-20 minutes. Add half a teaspoon of raw honey to taste and for additional benefits.
Ashwagandha
This is one of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic healing and is incredibly healthy. It is considered as a tonic with multiple properties, such as anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties. It can help with anxiety and in improving the production of thyroid hormone. Take it along with almond milk or coconut milk.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which is a potent antioxidant that helps fight chronic inflammation, neutralize free radicals that cause oxidative damage. Moreover, studies have found that this spice has antibacterial and antiviral activity. It can provide relief on mood-related disorders such as anxiety and depression, which come with thyroid problems. It can also help to reduce instances of goiter, or enlarged thyroid, in people who are prone to that.
Make a tonic by heating a teaspoon of turmeric with 1 ½ cups dairy-free milk, and spice it with a half teaspoon each of ground ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla extract and a ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Add ½ a tablespoon of coconut oil and whisk well for a frothy component. Simmer on low for a few minutes and serve warm.
