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Lemon Balm and Hypothyroidism: Helpful Herb or Hidden Risk?

by Vorst Canada
Lemon Balm and Hypothyroidism: Helpful Herb or Hidden Risk?

 

Often recognized for its lovely, lemony scent and relaxing properties is lemon balm. This go-to herbal friend helps digestion, relaxes tension, and promotes sleep. If you are among the millions of people suffering from hypothyroidism, you may be wondering: Is lemon balm beneficial or detrimental to thyroid health?

Disclaimer: This content is intended solely for informational and educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment

Table of Contents

What Is Lemon Balm?

Native to Europe and the Mediterranean, the perennial herb Melissa officinalis, lemon balm, belongs to the mint family. Renowned for its lemony aroma, it has long been used in traditional medicine to improve digestion, relax the nerves, and ease stress.

Traditional Uses:

  • Calming anxiety and stress

  • Promoting better sleep

  • Reducing indigestion or bloating

  • Soothing headaches or tension

One can utilize lemon balm in tinctures and essential oils, drink it as tea, or take capsules. Herbal combinations and natural medicines have made this calming element a frequent component.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

When the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones, one develops hypothyroidism. Primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), these hormones are absolutely essential for controlling metabolism, cardiac action, digestion, and even mood.

Common Symptoms:

  • Fatigue

  • Weight gain

  • Cold intolerance

  • Constipation

  • Depression or low mood

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Menstrual irregularities

It’s usually treated with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement, like levothyroxine. However, some people also explore supportive dietary or herbal strategies to manage symptoms.

How Lemon Balm May Affect the Thyroid

Some preliminary studies and traditional sources suggest lemon balm may interfere with thyroid function, particularly in cases of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Here’s what we know:

  • Thyroid-inhibiting effects: Some lab studies have indicated lemon balm might inhibit thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) binding and interfere with T4 to T3 conversion. These findings are primarily based on in vitro (test tube) studies.

  • Mechanisms: Lemon balm contains flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, and other phenolic compounds that may influence hormone pathways. These compounds could potentially reduce overactive thyroid hormone production—but the evidence in humans is limited.

  • Animal studies: A few animal studies suggest compounds in lemon balm might slow thyroid activity, especially in hyperthyroid states.

This has led to the belief that lemon balm may be beneficial for hyperthyroidism but potentially problematic for hypothyroidism.

Is Lemon Balm Safe for People with Hypothyroidism?

It depends on the dose, frequency, and individual response. There are no large human studies confirming that lemon balm harms people with hypothyroidism. However, caution is advised.

Situations where it might be problematic:

  • When taken in large or concentrated doses

  • When combined with thyroid medications without supervision

  • When used daily over long periods

Situations where it may be safe:

  • Occasional use as tea or aromatherapy

  • When part of a balanced herbal formula

  • With healthcare provider approval

Quick Tip: If you're on thyroid medication, space out lemon balm and your medication by at least 4 hours to avoid potential interference with absorption.

Benefits of Lemon Balm for Hypothyroid Symptoms

Even if it potentially suppresses thyroid function in high doses, lemon balm may offer symptom relief for common hypothyroid-related issues:

  • Improved Sleep: Hypothyroidism often comes with disrupted sleep. Lemon balm has shown promise in improving sleep quality.

  • Reduced Anxiety: Many people with underactive thyroids experience anxiety. Lemon balm's calming effects can be helpful.

  • Digestive Support: Constipation and bloating are common. Lemon balm is a gentle carminative herb that can ease these issues.

Key Takeaway: Used in moderation, lemon balm might actually help relieve some hypothyroid symptoms—just avoid excessive or high-potency forms.

How to Use Lemon Balm Safely

Responsible use of lemon balm can help you get its advantages without compromising thyroid function or medication intake. Here is a more thorough guide on safe inclusion of it into your wellness program:

Suggested Approaches:

One of the most traditional and mild ways to enjoy lemon balm is by tea. Generally speaking, most individuals find drinking one to two cups daily safe. Steep five to ten minutes in boiling water using dried lemon balm leaves. Particularly helpful for relaxing nerves and encouraging peaceful sleep is this gentle preparation.

More potent capsules or tablets should be consumed as directed by their label. Unless directed by a skilled practitioner, stick to lesser doses—usually 300–600 mg per serving. High doses over time can provide increased risk for those worried about their thyroid.

Essential Oil: Lemon balm essential oil should not be taken internally. Rather, use it in aromatherapy—diffuse a few drops in water or mix with a carrier oil for top-notch nutrients. It helps with stress and mood without directly influencing the thyroid.

Glycerin tinctures based on alcohol are strong. Start once or twice a day at five to twenty drops diluted in water. If you experience more tiredness, mental fog, or changes in thyroid symptoms, closely track your feelings and cut back or stop using.

Guidelines of Dosage:

Once or twice a day, the standard dosage for capsules falls between 300 and 600 mg.

Daily for up to two weeks, then a pause to evaluate your body's reaction, tinctures and teas should be drunk in moderation.

A healthcare expert should oversee long-term use, particularly if you use thyroid meds.

For whom should one avoid lemon balm?

Those with diagnosed thyroid suppression or on thyroid hormone replacement should consult their doctor before routinely consuming lemon balm.

Unless advised by their doctor, pregnant or nursing people should avoid it since its safety during these times has not been properly investigated.

Those with autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, may have erratic responses. See your practitioner and always start with a minimal dose.

Quick Tip: Steer clear of drinking lemon balm tea or utilizing a supplement right before your thyroid meds. Space them at least three to four hours apart to lower the likelihood of contact or decreased absorption.

Other Herbs and Nutrients for Thyroid Support

If lemon balm feels too risky for your thyroid, consider these better-supported alternatives:

Helpful Nutrients:

  • Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production (but avoid excess)

  • Selenium: Supports thyroid hormone metabolism

  • Zinc: Important for hormone synthesis

  • Vitamin D: Deficiency is common in thyroid disorders

Herbs to Consider:

  • Ashwagandha: An adaptogen that may support thyroid hormone balance

  • Rhodiola: Helps with fatigue and stress response

  • Gotu kola: Supports circulation and cognitive function

Note: Always consult a healthcare provider before combining herbs with thyroid medications.

Key Takeaways

Lemon balm may not be off-limits for hypothyroidism—but moderation is key.

Use it if:

  • You want help with anxiety or sleep

  • You’re not relying on high-dose extracts

  • You’re working with a practitioner

Avoid it if:

  • You’re experiencing worsening thyroid symptoms

  • You’re using potent tinctures or high-dose capsules without supervision

Conclusion and Next Steps

Lemon balm is a gentle, time-tested herb with a reputation for calming the nervous system and supporting digestion. While some sources suggest it may interfere with thyroid activity, the research is limited and mostly applies to hyperthyroidism or very high doses.

If you have hypothyroidism and want to try lemon balm, proceed mindfully. Start small, monitor your symptoms, and always keep your healthcare provider in the loop. Herbs can be powerful allies when used with care and wisdom.

References

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