Ashwagandha: Any value for those who are hypothyroid?

[rjb112]

I just read an internet "article" recommending an herb called ashwagandha for thyroid health.

Any value to those that are hypothyroid?

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

I can't answer your question about whether it is of any value to those who are hypothyroid, but it's important to be aware that it can lower cortisol.

[rjb112 in reply to SeasideSusie]

thanks SeasideSusie

[radd]

rjb112,

I love Ashwagandha as previously supplemented it successfully it for adrenal issues.

However, I wouldn’t take it if you have Hashi with elevated antibodies, as although it is meant to have immune-modulating properties, it is also a member of the nightshade family.

I have Hashi and my thyroid gland is completely shrivelled but if yours is still in any way operational and you are medicating thyroid hormone replacement, be aware research has found Ashwaganda to stimulate thyroid gland activity and therefore may mess up your meds and induce hyperthyroidism.

[rjb112 in reply to radd]

Very interesting, thanks radd

[Valt]

I was advised by a private endo to try ashwaganda to help with symptoms of adrenal stress due to high cortisol after a long period of having had inadequate treatment for my hypothyroidism. I have found it very useful, the effects are subtle but I notice a distinct improvement of mood and anxiety levels after a few days. I sleep longer and more deeply at night, too. But without feeling in any way ‘drugged’. The info re dosage and length of treatment is varied, so I am cautious and use it for no more than 2-3 weeks at a time, one tablet each morning. This works for me, I discontinue until I feel I am beginning to struggle again, which fortunately is becoming less frequent. Hope this helps, but we are all different..

[Hidden]

This herb is good for relieving stress it may cause T4 to rise in the body, though especially hypo people.

[Hannah13]

I have been taking Rhodiola for a few months which is also an adaptagenic herb. Would the above advice apply to this herb as well as I was wondering if I should now give it a break. It did lift my mood and I certainly felt well on it but not sure about staying on it for very long periods of time.