Herbal Therapies for Hypothyroidism

This review examines the potential of herbal medicines in treating hypothyroidism, a condition marked by a deficiency of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is common in the United States, affecting approximately 4.6% of the population, with higher rates observed in females and the elderly. The review aims to provide a thorough overview of the current state of research on herbal treatment for hypothyroidism. Despite these promising findings, the review highlights the limitations of current research, including the lack of large-scale, high-quality clinical trials and concerns regarding long-term safety and efficacy. The review emphasizes the need for further rigorous research to validate the benefits and safety of these herbal medicines and to explore their mechanisms of action in greater detail. By addressing these gaps in knowledge, the review aims to contribute to the development of more effective and safer treatment options for patients with hypothyroidism. The outcomes of this review for the field of study include the potential inclusion of herbal medicines into treatment protocols, offering a natural and potentially safer alternative to conventional thyroid treatments. Future research directions suggested by the review include conducting large-scale randomized controlled trials and investigating the interactions between herbal medicines and conventional treatments.