Hi
I've been led to believe I can't take any form of herbal supplements because I am on Levothyroxine tablets (for my thyroid).
Does anybody know if this is true, or are there any certain herbs I can take, and if so, what are they, and what dosage?
I have been doing hypnotherapy for 11 weeks and had zero results, so thought herbs may help, but I need to know if I can take them safely.
Also, is breast growth permanent from taking herbs?
Thank you
(30-11-2011, 10:36 AM)djt-d Wrote: [ -> ]I've been led to believe I can't take any form of herbal supplements because I am on Levothyroxine tablets (for my thyroid).
I've heard that you shouldn't take soy within 3 hours of taking Levothyroxine, but I've never heard of any other restrictions on taking herbs. Who led you to believe that all kinds of herbs were off limits to you?
Hi Molly H
It was my local herb shop (Holland & Barrett) in the UK. I wanted to get some Kelp, as it is really good for your hair and nails, amongst other things it makes them grow quickly. I was told I couldn't have it because of my medication, and I asked them them if my medication stops me taking any form of herbal medication, and I was told yes, I could not take anything herbal.
Where have you heard about the soy, and have you done a lot of research on herbs and is it through this that nothing has been mentioned about my medication and herbs.
Thank you[/align]
Whaaat, they are probably trying to play it safe because they don't know. First kelp isn't an herb it's a sea vegetable. It is however extremely high in iodine which might... fix your hypothyroidism so you don't even need medication anymore. Maybe they're worried about an overdose of thyroxine? But if the herb store said it and not the doctor I doubt it. I've heard doctor recommendations to get more iodine in cases of hypothyroidism. In fact brittle fingernails are a symptom of hypothyroidism which iodine often fixes. Has your doctor told you the cause of your condition? Lack of iodine is the most common reason but there are other rare causes too, in which case iodine probably wouldn't help. Also, while you need much more iodine than most people, kelp has a TON so don't go overboard. Do ask your doctor first about whether or not you need more iodine.
Hypothyroidism can affect hormone levels so get your levels tested to see if you have any imbalance. NBE herbs tend to be hormonal. Take herbs that fix the imbalance and not ones that worsen it. Besides that too much fenugreek when you're not yet used to it can sometimes cause an upset stomach which could interfere with medication absorption. I'm no doctor so start slow, get regular checkups, and everything is IMO and at your own risk.
Hi
I will ask my doctor if I can take herbs, and which ones (and also the Kelp).
I get my bloods taken once a year to check my medication is at the right dose.
I agree with surferjoe2007, they are probably trying to play it safe because they don't know anything for sure. Did the leaflet you got with the prescription tell you not to take any herbs or supplements?
Hi VickyA
I'm not sure, I can't remember, I will have another look.