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Lemon Balm Tea and Thyroid Health: What You Need to Know

by Vorst Canada
Lemon Balm Tea and Thyroid Health: What You Need to Know

 

Lemon balm tea is a popular herbal remedy known for its calming and soothing properties. If you've received a diagnosis of thyroid issues, especially hypothyroidism, you may be curious about the safety of drinking lemon balm tea.

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 Tea?

One lemon-scented herb from the mint family is lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). Usually taken as a tea for its mild soothing action, lemon balm has long been used for anxiety, sleeplessness, and stomach trouble.

Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action stems from plant components like flavonoids and rosmarinic acid. Its capacity to promote nervous system health, lower restlessness, and even assist with minor sleep disorders is much praised.

Here you can check out VORST Lemon Balm Supplement with 180 Vegan Capsules

How the Thyroid Works

Found at the base of your neck, your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland. It generates hormones that control your body's metabolism, temperature, heart rate, and energy level including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

A condition known as hypothyroidism—a slowing down of thyroid function—may cause your body to feel depressed, tired, overweight, and cold intolerant. An autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto's thyroiditis is usually the reason.

Lemon Balm and Thyroid Interaction

There is evidence that lemon balm somewhat inhibits the thyroid. This implies it could lower the activity of several thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and T4 conversion-related enzymes involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Not hypothyroidism, lemon balm has long been used in natural medicine to treat hyperthyroidism—an hyperactive thyroid. Certain chemicals in lemon balm may, according to certain animal and in vitro studies, prevent TSH from attaching itself to thyroid cells, hence lowering thyroid hormone output.

Though regular or high-dose consumption may necessitate additional caution, especially if your thyroid function is already low, this does not always mean a single cup of tea will dramatically affect your thyroid health.

Should People with Hypothyroidism Avoid It?

If you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), especially from autoimmune causes like Hashimoto’s, you may want to limit lemon balm intake or use it only under professional guidance. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Consider avoiding lemon balm tea if:

  • You are on thyroid medication like levothyroxine

  • You have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

  • Your healthcare provider has advised avoiding goitrogenic or hormone-suppressing herbs

You may still enjoy it occasionally if:

  • You’re otherwise healthy and consume it sporadically for relaxation

  • Your thyroid hormone levels are stable and monitored

  • You use a low dose (e.g., 1 cup of tea a few times per week)

Safe Use Guidelines

If you’re curious about trying lemon balm tea but want to proceed cautiously, here are some safe use tips:

  • Start with low doses: 1 cup of tea every few days is typically considered gentle.

  • Avoid long-term daily use without consulting a healthcare provider.

  • Monitor symptoms: If you notice increased fatigue, cold sensitivity, or weight gain, talk to your doctor.

  • Check medication timing: Do not consume lemon balm tea close to the time you take your thyroid medication.

  • Consider alternatives: Chamomile or passionflower tea may offer similar calming benefits without impacting thyroid function.

Quick Tip: If you love herbal teas, rotating between several different types (like peppermint, rooibos, or ginger) can prevent overexposure to any single herb’s active compounds.

Conclusion

Lemon balm tea can be a lovely way to unwind—but if you have hypothyroidism or take thyroid medication, it’s worth being mindful of its potential effects. While occasional use is unlikely to cause harm, regular or concentrated intake could interfere with thyroid hormone levels.

References

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