Recently someone mentioned a Graves’ disease formula called Wise Woman Herbals Formula II, which is comprised of classic herbs in a liquid format used to manage hyperthyroidism. The company states that the formula “promotes normal healthy thyroid gland function for those who have hyperthyroidism.” The suggested use of the formula is 40-60 drops 2-3 times a day.
It is contraindicated in simple nontoxic goiter where thyroid function is normal and patients are asymptomatic even though they may have an enlarged, non-tender thyroid gland. Patients who are not hyperthyroid and have no inflammatory component associated with thyroid goiter should not use this formula. It is also contraindicated in hypothyroidism, since it suppresses thyroid hormone, or while pregnant or nursing (see Lycopus, Passiflora and Leonurus).
The ingredient Selenicerius grandiflorus (night-blooming cereus) can potentiate cardiac drugs such as Digitoxin, Digoxin and other cardiac glycosides. Individuals taking formulas with Selenicerius while taking cardiac glycosides should have their medication monitored by their physician to make sure they do not receive a toxic dosage of cardiac glycosides.
The formula contains Lycopus virginicus (Bugleweed), Leonurus (motherwort), Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), and Selenicereus grandiflorus (night-blooming cereus) and lavender (Lavandula officinalis) essential oil.
The following are descriptions of each ingredient (not provided by the company):
BUGLEWEED
Bugleweed, belonging to the mint family, has been used for a long time in the treatment of hyperthyroidism and for reducing palpitations. The compounds in Bugleweed reduce levels thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH or thyrotropin), thyroxine (T4), and also excessive estrogens. It helps to inhibit the binding of TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb) to the TSH receptor (TSH-R), which prevents thyroid stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) from reacting with the protein receptor on thyroid cells. Bugleweed also helps to calm heart palpitations. Its diuretic properties can help remove excess fluids and improve circulation. One note of caution, Bugleweed preparations may interfere with the use of radioactive isotopes used in some diagnostic procedures.
LEMON BALM
Lemon Balm, also a member of the mint family, helps to mildly reduce thyroid hormone levels, but alone is not intended for patients who have moderate to severe hyperthyroidism. In this regard, it complements Bugleweed. Lemon Balm slows pituitary function, which in turn can lower TSH, a thyroid stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Because it lowers TSH, it can be helpful in those who have high TSH as well in those who have hyperthyroidism, although it may inhibit the absorption of thyroid hormone replacement drugs (thyroxine). Lemon Balm helps to promote immune system health by fighting bacteria and viruses. It acts as a detoxifier and is known for its calming effect.
MOTHERWORT
Motherwort, a mint from Eurasian origins, is used as a cardiotonic (favorable affect on the heart), anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and anxiolytic (treatment of anxiety). Although it won’t depress normal thyroid function, it helps to reduce tachycardia, blood pressure, nervous irritability, and muscle spasms. Palpitations that interfere with sleep or concomitant smooth-muscle spasms in the gut or reproductive tract may also be counteracted by motherwort. Although the herb is generally considered safe, it should be used with caution with beta blockers or anticoagulant medications, likely due to a “doubling up” effect.
PASSIONFLOWER
Passionflower, a vine-type plant that trails on the ground or intertwines with other plants, is generally considered a safe herb and has been used for its calming effect. It is essentially a tranquilizer and relaxes the nervous system. It is used for headaches, tension, chronic mood disorders, and insomnia. Besides causing drowsiness and sedation, it can also lower blood pressure. However, it may also affect blood clotting tests. When combined with SSRI's or antidepressants, any side effects may increase.
NIGHT-BLOOMING CEREUS
Night-blooming cereus is a cactus used for heart irregularities like palpitations and arrhythmia, and it combines well with thyroid sedating herbs. The herb should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation and precautions are indicated for high blood pressure, severe cardiac conditions, MAOIs and cardiac glycosides.
LAVENDER
Lavender, another member of the mint family, is used as a sedative and sleep aid and is also used for headaches and head congestion. The German Commission E recommends lavender for insomnia, nervous stomach, and anxiety, while the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recommends it for colic (abdominal pain) and depressive headaches. In Spain, lavender is used in teas to treat diabetes and insulin resistance. Lavender has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. However, it has been recently reported to cause hormonal disruption of a more estrogenic nature and may also act as an allergen in some people. It can also act as a cytotoxin to skin cells and increase photosensitivity.