When I was diagnosed with Graves’ Disease, without question the most uncomfortable symptoms I had were the increased heart rate and the palpitations. Even though I knew right away that I was going to follow a natural treatment protocol, I still was considering taking a beta blocker (Propranolol) to control these symptoms, along with the anti-thyroid drug Methimazole. I decided to hold off and give the natural treatment methods a few weeks to kick in, making the decision that if my symptoms persisted that I would go ahead and take the prescription drugs.
Fortunately the natural treatment methods worked quickly with regards to controlling the symptoms, and the primary herb that helped with the increased heart rate and palpitations was Bugleweed. While it took a few months until all of my symptoms were completely gone, I can honestly say that Bugleweed was the main herb that prevented me from having to take the prescription drugs. Of course this wasn’t the only thing I took during this protocol, as I took multiple nutritional supplements and herbs, as well as modified my diet, and changed other lifestyle factors as well.
However, if there is a “magic” potion for hyperthyroidism and Graves’ Disease, then Bugleweed is it. Once again, this doesn’t mean that simply taking Bugleweed will cure your condition, as while taking it alone might help to manage the symptoms, if you want to restore your health back to normal then you will need to do more than taking a single herb.
As for what dosage I took, I began by taking 5ml of the liquid herb, two times daily. I was on the herb for a few months, and when I weaned myself off I eventually took 5ml one time each day, and then 2.5 ml before stopping completely. I’m of course not suggesting that anyone reading this with a hyperthyroid condition take Bugleweed, as you really should consult with a natural endocrine doctor first. This is especially true if you have Graves’ Disease, but even if you have a “typical” case of hyperthyroidism you still should speak with an expert.
While taking the correct liquid herbs can really help with your thyroid condition, one thing to keep in mind is that most of them taste nasty. As a result, if you take liquid herbs then you will want to either “down it” quickly like a shot, or mix it with some juice, or another drink in order. I chose the latter option, as I would add the Bugleweed to my protein drink, which did a great job of masking the taste.
Obviously I was thrilled with the results I received while following a natural treatment protocol, but besides being concerned initially as to whether or not such a protocol would be effective, another fear I had is the fear that my symptoms would return once I stopped taking supplements and herbs, especially Bugleweed. So as I weaned myself off of this herb I was worried that the increased heart rate and palpitations would return, but fortunately they didn’t.
So if you have hyperthyroidism or Graves’ Disease and are thinking about following a natural treatment protocol, then chances are Bugleweed will be one of the herbs you will be told to take, along with numerous others. Just like any other supplement or herb, the quality is extremely important. I say this because even though I strongly recommend not to treat your thyroid condition on your own, I know some people will look to buy some Bugleweed anyway. And many will purchase a low quality liquid herb, and then not understand why it doesn’t work.
Finally, this herb is only for people with a hyperthyroid disorder, and is contraindicated for a hypothyroid condition, including Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. If you have a hypothyroid condition and take Bugleweed, not only won’t it help you, but it might worsen your condition. And if you have a hyperthyroid condition and are taking other supplements and/or medications, you’ll once again need to be cautious about taking this. Quality liquid herbs can be very powerful, but they can be somewhat dangerous at times as well, which is why speaking with a holistic doctor who focuses on endocrine disorders is a wise thing to do.
Aaron says
Hi Dr Eric.
Recently diagnosed with graves. High T3 and T4, very low TSH and elevated Antibodies and also elevated SHBG which is lowering my Free T.
Only real symptoms are fatigue, and my eyes feel a little irritated at times with possibly some very minor potrusion? But hard to say.
I have eliminated gluten and will look to heal the gut.
I am currently taking 4 grams of L Cartinine, and will do for 4 weeks before retesting blood. I want to add each agent systematically and test each time so I know what is working.
My question is, if Bugleweed does surpress thyroid antibodies, then can we extrapolate that it would also help with any potential of said antibodies attacking the eyes also?
Gabby says
I am 3 months postpartum , and doctors are telling me I have Graves’ disease since I’m so hyperactive thyroid , some think it’s post partum thyroiditis . I feel extremely sick and helpless they gave me beta blockers and methimazole… what should I do?
Kristina says
Hi Aaron,
I have euthyroid Graves that effects my eyes. I took bugleweed for years and my eyes were back to normal. Then I quit taking it for a few years and my right eye is starting to act up again, so I’ve resumed taking it. It usually takes about 3 weeks of use for me to experience relief.
Kristina