From the TCM perspective Hyper- and Hypo-Thyroid issues are related to emotional stress.

There are fundamental differences how Western and Eastern medicine approaches Thyroid issues.

In Western Medicine

In Western Medicine Thyroid Disease can be hyperthyroid or hypothyroid.  There can be several causes for hyperthyroidism, but the most common are:  Graves' disease, Iodine deficiency, toxic nodular goiter, and toxic adenoma.  Three forms of treatment are available for hyperthyroidism: drug therapy, the use of radioactive iodine, and surgery.

In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine)

TCM believes that when individuals who are prone to a natural deficiency of yin encounter emotional problems, such as anxiety or anger, a stagnation of liver Qi occurs. Emotional and spiritual factors have a great influence on hyperthyroidism and result in a number of hyperthyroid-related symptoms as well. This would also generate internal fire which further dries up the body's yin and blood. The liver then fails to perform its regulatory role for other organs, such as enhancing the digestive properties of the spleen.  If an individual is deficient in both liver yin and kidney yin, the body is more likely to create phlegm. The phlegm obstructs the meridians causing an erratic qi circulation. When stagnant qi and phlegm collect in the neck area, they give rise to goiter formation.

Symptoms

Different individuals may experience different symptoms, including:

- Enlargement of the thyroid gland

- A visible swelling at the base of the neck that may be particularly obvious when shaving or putting on makeup

- A tight feeling in the throat

- Fatigue

- Eyes convex on its anterior surface

- Loss of hair

- Anxiety

- Agitation

- Mild tremor and muscle weakness

- Coughing

- Hoarseness

- Difficulty swallowing and difficulty breathing

Diet & Prevention

Exercise daily to keep your body and immune system strong.  Mental overstimulation and stress should be avoided. Meditate daily to help and keep yourself calm.  Foods that are rich in iodine such as seaweed and kelp should be used carefully. It is best to avoid eating uncooked (raw), greasy, and pungent food and chocolate. No smoking, drinking alcohol, coffee and cold beverages.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine the following herbs are recommended for individuals with Thyroid problems 

• Fritillaria
• Laminaria
• Spike of Common Selfheal Fruit
• Salvia Root,
• Dried Ginger
• Poria
• Angelica Root

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.