Superfood Ashwagandha has been used for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine, as a healing herb packed with nutrition and health benefits. With the ability to boost energy, increase concentration, tackle insomnia and soothe menopause symptoms, there seems to be nothing this superfood can’t do. And that goes for thyroid health as well.
Studies suggest that as an adaptogenic herb, KSM-66 Ashwagandha has the ability to stimulate the thyroid gland and potentially treat a range of thyroid dysfunctions. Here we explore exactly how this superfood can supercharge your thyroid gland health.
What is Thyroid Dysfunction?
You might not give much thought to your thyroid, but this small butterfly-shaped gland plays a vital role in your health. It’s located in the neck and produces two hormones – triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), that are used by all tissues of the body.
These hormones help the body in many ways. They regulate how the body processes the energy obtained from food. The pituitary gland is also important here, as it regulates the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) released into the body.
When these glands work together, they help keep your health in check. But when they falter, your body quickly lets you know. The two most common thyroid dysfunctions are Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism – both of which cause uncomfortable symptoms.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is caused by an overactive thyroid. The most common cause is Graves’ disease – an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to develop an increased metabolic state. The symptoms include:
- An enlarged thyroid
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Tremor
- Fine, brittle hair
- Sweating
- Changes in bowel habits or menstrual patterns
- Thin skin
- Insomnia
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is caused by an underactive thyroid, and causes the body’s metabolism to become sluggish, due to having too few hormones. The result is a slow down in some of the body’s most important physical and mental processes. The symptoms of Hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Increased sensitivity to the cold
- Muscle weakness
- Painful or swollen joints
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair
- Depression
- Poor concentration
KSM-66 Ashwagandha and Thyroid Dysfunction
Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic status goes a long way in explaining why this herb has proven so effective when it comes to balancing hormones – even those produced by the thyroid.
Adaptogens are known for their ability to help your body cope with and recover from stress, allowing you to maintain your energy levels throughout the day. They do this by regulating hormones. Whether your hormone levels are too high (as with hyperthyroidism) or too low (like with hypothyroidism), Ashwagandha helps bring your body back into a healthy hormonal balance.
This explains why studies have suggested that the most researched form of the superfood, KSM-66 Ashwagandha, is effective in improving both types of thyroid disorder.
How Does It Work?
Recent studies have pointed towards Ashwagandha’s ability to both stimulate and slow down the thyroid gland.
When it comes to treating hypothyroidism, KSM-66 Ashwagandha has been shown to increase T4 levels and normalize TSH levels with patients being treated for bipolar disorder. This means that for people looking to boost their T4 levels, Ashwagandha could well be an important natural supplement.
The best bit? There is no danger of Ashwagandha stimulating the production of excess T4 hormone. Thanks to its ability to reduce lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress, it’s able to keep the production of excess T4 in check.
KSM-66 Ashwagandha, which is the highest concentration root extract of Ashwagandha available could be effective for treating hyperthyroidism too. As the adaptogen only selectively increases or decreases certain hormones, it has the potential to regulate the production of active T4 and T3 if it recognizes that your body needs it. By working with your body, Ashwagandha kickstarts your natural thyroid hormone regulation mechanism. You can find our analysis on the best Ashwagandha supplement brands on the market here.
Making the Most of KSM-66 Ashwagandha
As a full-spectrum supplement and the most concentrated form of Ashwagandha in the world, KSM-66 Ashwagandha packs more of a punch than other forms of the superfood. Plus, it couldn’t be easier to enjoy its benefits. Once you’ve chosen a high quality KSM-66 Ashwagandha product, simply take 600mg of the supplement once or twice a day.
Not only can you expect to experience an improvement in your thyroid gland health, but you may also enjoy a wealth of other health benefits too including fighting adrenal fatigue.
