What’s a natural approach toward the thyroid problem itself?

“I have a good friend who will be turning 60 this year. He has serious thyroid problems. I don’t know anything about thyroid problems but I know he is always tired, gaining weight, feeling light headed, etc.  I want to help him but don’t know how. I’ve been diffusing orange oil and rose oil for the fogginess and colloidal silver for overall health. Is there anything else I can do for him that’s natural and directed more towards the thyroid problem itself? He also suffers from occasional gout flare ups. Luckily he loves cherries!”

Thyroid problems can be a stand-alone issue or be involved with other conditions as well.  The symptoms that you bring up with your friend seem to be related to low thyroid function (hypothyroid).  There can be many causes for hypothyroid, but one thing is certain: the adrenals should be addressed in concert with the thyroid.

Whether he is taking a natural or synthetic thyroid medication the adrenal glands should be supported with B-Vitamins (specifically B-5 and B-6) and adaptogens such as Cordyceps (mushroom), Asian Ginseng Root (Panax ginseng), and Rhodiola Root (Rhodiola rosea).  While the essential oils may be beneficial for his nervous system, there are also many herbs/food, glandulars and vitamins that can support thyroid function. Here are some to keep in mind:

While the above recommendations may be helpful, the gout tips me off to the fact that there may be problems maintaining functional alkaline/acid balance.  Cherries are good, but the root cause of the Uric acid (gout) should be addressed.  Your friend has a complex symptom picture and should be evaluated by a medical professional with a holistic view.  It would be beneficial to find a naturopathic doctor in your area.

If you need help with this, go to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) website and search for a doctor in your area.