Using Essential Oils for Thyroid Support
Essential oils have become a popular addition to holistic treatments because when used accordingly, essential oils have many health benefits. This includes supporting the thyroid.
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower part of the neck and is responsible for producing AND releasing hormones. Good thyroid function is essential for good health because the thyroid is responsible for processes such as metabolism, emotional health, brain function, digestion, and temperature control to name a few.
The American Thyroid Association estimates approximately 20 million people live with some kind of thyroid disease, hypothyroidism being the most common.
Conventional treatment for low thyroid function includes hormone replacement. However, in a functional medicine approach, lifestyle changes such as a clean, healthy diet, exercise, stress management, and essential oils have been used to improve the condition.
So which essential oils are beneficial for a low functioning thyroid?
Spearmint: Spearmint is considered a natural analgesic for pain, especially in the joints. Therefore, applying spearmint oil to aching joints can help relieve pain by improving blood circulation. Joint pain is common with hypothyroidism.
Peppermint: With a sluggish thyroid comes slow digestion, often creating digestive problems. Adding some peppermint essential oil to a cup of hot water (tea) can help relieve nausea, gas, and bloating.
Lavender: Diffusing lavender oil helps relieve stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels.
Lemon: Great to add in water for helping the liver detox and move toxins out of the body. A clean liver is necessary to help the body convert the T4 hormone to T3.
Wild Orange: Diffusing this essential oil can help you feel energized as many thyroid patients tend to have low energy levels.
Side note: When using an essential oil topically, use a carrier oil such as coconut, almond, or jojoba as some may be too strong and may irritate the skin. Also, make sure to buy from reputable sources that manufacture oils free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Resource:
https://www.thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/