What essential oils are good for thyroid nodules and thyroid support?
Introduction
Thyroid nodules are fluid-filled or solid lumps that form within the thyroid – a gland that is located below Adam’s apple, in the front of the neck.
The thyroid’s main function is to produce the thyroid hormone, which is important for normal metabolism and growth. This hormone helps the human body to stay warm, better use energy, and keep the heart, muscles, brain, and other organs working properly.
Thyroid nodules are among the most frequent endocrine complaints in the US. Palpable thyroid nodules are present in about 5 percent of women and 1 percent of men.
Cancer is the biggest concern when thyroid nodules form, and it is found in less than 5% of all nodules.
Symptoms
Common symptoms can include:
- symptoms of hyperthyroidism, like – weakness, fatigue, weight loss, irregular heart rate, palpitations, rapid heart rate, anxiety, nervousness, tremor (usually fine shaking), increased bowel movements, heat intolerance, or excessive sweating;
- problems with swallowing;
- a lump in the front of the neck which you can feel;
- uncomfortable pressure sensation on the breathing tube;
- a cough that just won’t go away;
- a sense like you need to swallow something;
- a lump in the neck which you can see when looking in the mirror.
Causes
The precise cause of thyroid nodules is unknown, but several medical conditions can cause them to form, such as:
- thyroid cancer;
- thyroid cyst;
- thyroid adenoma;
- iodine deficiency;
- thyroiditis.
Diagnosis
There are several tests which can be carried out to find the cause of your problem, such as:
- nuclear medicine scan;
- X-rays;
- fine needle aspiration cytology;
- ultrasound scan;
- blood tests.
Treatment
Treatment may involve one of the following:
- levothyroxine tablets;
- antithyroid drugs;
- radioactive iodine;
- surgery.
List Of 11 Essential Oils For Thyroid Nodules And Thyroid Support:
1) Lemongrass
It is extracted through the process of steam distillation of dried lemongrass (scientifical names – Andropogon citratus or Cymbopogon citratus).
The therapeutic properties of this oil include:
- tonic;
- analgesic;
- nervous system sedative;
- nervine;
- anti-depressant;
- insecticidal;
- antimicrobial;
- galactagogue;
- fungicidal;
- febrifuge;
- diuretic;
- antipyretic;
- deodorant;
- carminative;
- bactericidal;
- astringent;
- antiseptic.
The main chemical components are – citronellal, myrcene, nerol, geraniol, geranyl acetate, limonene, neral, and citral.
Common benefits of lemongrass oil are:
- eases digestive tract spasms;
- relieves headaches;
- boosts energy;
- balances the thyroid;
- reduces stomachaches;
- reduces fever;
- acts as an astringent;
- kills germs;
- alleviates abdominal and muscle pain.
2) Frankincense
Frankincense oil is sourced from the resin of the Boswellia sacra or Boswellia carterii tree which is typically grown in Somalia. Its strong aroma can be described as earthy, woody, and spicy with a fruity nuance.
It is considered a holy anointing essential oil in the Middle East, where it has been used in religious ceremonies for millennia.
It relieves pain associated with arthritis and rheumatism as well as it helps to heal infected wounds and boils, improve circulatory and thyroid problems, insomnia, acne, and chronic inflammation.
3) Geranium
Geranium essential oil is extracted from the leaves, stems, and flowers of the geranium plant. The main components are:
- citronellol;
- linalool;
- geraniol;
- isomenthone;
- citronellyl formate;
- nerol.
The health benefits of this oil can be attributed to its properties as a hemostatic, astringent, cytophylactic, diuretic, cicatrizant, styptic, deodorant, tonic, and vermifuge.
It is used traditionally to support the nervous and circulatory systems as well as assists in detoxification. According to research, this essential oil is a safer and more effective ingredient than anti-inflammatory drugs.
4) Clove
Clove oil is high in plant-derived phenylpropanoids, with the main compounds being eugenol, carvacrol, thymol, and cinnamaldehyde.
With its potent antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil can help boost the immune system. Plus, it can be used to relieve pain and stress.
5) Lavender
Lavender essential oil is one of the most versatile oils, and there are a variety of benefits to using this oil.
For instance, topical application of lavender essential oil decreases moderate intensities of pain during the insertion of dialysis needles, according to a study that was issued in Complementary Therapies in Medicine.
In addition, it has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities which make it excellent for defending the body against typhoid, tuberculosis, and thyroid issues.
6) Grapefruit
Grapefruit essential oil is produced from the Citrus paradisi grapefruit plant. It is used to stimulate circulation, reduce stress, enhance mood, increase energy, and improve digestion.
Moreover, grapefruit essential oil is capable of helping lower inflammation, which is a key factor in thyroid nodules.
7) Marjoram
It is produced by steam distillation of both dried and fresh leaves of the marjoram plant (scientifical name – Origanum majorana).
Marjoram essential oil can be a helpful natural remedy for individuals at high risk or suffering from heart problems, blood pressure symptoms, and thyroid imbalances.
8) Thyme
Thyme essential oil is derived from thyme (scientifical name – Thymus vulgaris), an aromatic herb.
Due to its powerful antirheumatic, antiseptic, and antispasmodic properties, the benefits of thyme oil have been recognized for centuries in Mediterranean countries.
It can be used to treat:
- flatulence;
- bronchitis;
- whooping cough;
- sore throat;
- colic;
- arthritis;
- stomach ache;
- diarrhea;
- bedwetting.
9) Myrrh
The main active compounds found in myrrh essential oil are called sesquiterpenes and terpenoids, both of which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is effective for cough and cold, and it reduces the deposition of phlegm in the lungs and respiratory tracts. Myrrh can also be used by thyroid sufferers.
10) Lemon
Lemon essential oil is extracted from lemon peels, that have numerous volatile oil glands in their pits. About 1,000 lemons are required to manufacture 1 pound of lemon essential oil.
Since inhaling the aroma of lemon oil can clear the sinuses and nasal passages, it is useful for treating asthma. This oil also reduces inflammation levels in the body.
11) Peppermint
Peppermint (scientifical name – Mentha piperita) essential oil is one of the most popular essential oils. The main compounds are – menthofuran and menthyl acetate.
It helps to relax the stomach and digestive tract muscles as well as calms the circulatory system. Also, peppermint oil improves memory and thyroid function.
When mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically to the stomach, this essential oil may help reduce indigestion, diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence.
Image source – Shutterstock
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References https://pubs.rsna.org/doi/pdf/10.1148/radiol.2016160641 https://journals.lww.com/oncology-times/Fulltext/2015/05250/Stud