Thyroid Health & Balance
Find Your Equilibrium with TCM
Understanding Thyroid Conditions from a TCM Perspective
The thyroid gland is a powerful regulator of your body’s metabolism, energy, and temperature. In Western medicine, its function is measured by hormone levels. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we see thyroid imbalances as a disruption in the body’s fundamental energy systems, often related to the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen organ networks.
TCM does not treat the thyroid in isolation. Instead, we focus on identifying and correcting the underlying patterns of imbalance that are causing your symptoms, helping your body return to a state of natural harmony.
Common Thyroid Conditions We Support
TCM offers a complementary approach to several thyroid disorders. It is essential to work with your medical doctor for diagnosis and monitoring, while TCM can help manage symptoms and address the root cause.
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- TCM View: Often seen as a deficiency of Yang energy, leading to slow metabolism and internal cold. There may also be aspects of Qi (energy) deficiency or Phlegm accumulation.
- Common Symptoms Addressed: Fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, brain fog, low mood, and constipation.
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
TCM View: Typically understood as a Yin deficiency with rising Liver Fire or “Empty Heat.” This is a state of excess activity that exhausts the body’s nourishing fluids.
Common Symptoms Addressed: Anxiety, irritability, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, heat intolerance, and unexplained weight loss.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis & Graves' Disease (Autoimmune)
- TCM View: Autoimmune conditions are often linked to immune system dysregulation, which TCM interprets as a weakness in the body’s defensive Qi (Wei Qi) combined with underlying imbalances like Liver Qi Stagnation or Yin Deficiency.
- Common Symptoms Addressed: We focus on modulating the immune response, reducing inflammation, and managing the fluctuating symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, and body aches.
Thyroid Nodules & Goiter
- TCM View: Primarily attributed to the accumulation of “Phlegm” and “Stagnation” in the neck. This results from impaired circulation of Qi and body fluids.
- Common Symptoms Addressed: We use techniques to move Qi, resolve Phlegm, and promote circulation to the area.
Benefits You May Experience
Support for energy and vitality
Better stress management and relaxation
Guidance on lifestyle habits that promote balance
A holistic approach to overall well-being
Our Holistic Approach to Thyroid Support
We create a personalized plan that may include:
Acupuncture
- To regulate Qi, calm the spirit, reduce inflammation, and help normalize thyroid function.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Custom formulas to nourish deficiency, clear heat, resolve phlegm, and support overall balance.
Dietary & Lifestyle Guidance
- Specific advice on foods and daily habits that support your constitution and address your specific imbalance.
Stress Management
- Techniques to help manage stress, which is a major contributor to thyroid dysfunction in TCM.
FAQ
I am on thyroid medication. Can I still try TCM?
TCM is a powerful system for managing health, but it is not a “cure” for thyroid disease. It is best used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medicine. Our goal is to help manage your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and address the root imbalances contributing to your condition.
What happens during the first appointment?
Yes, absolutely. It is crucial to inform both your medical doctor and your TCM practitioner about all treatments and medications you are using. Do not stop or change your prescribed medication without consulting your doctor. TCM works alongside your medical care to help you feel your best.
What happens during the first appointment?
We will conduct a thorough assessment, including asking about your symptoms, medical history, diet, sleep, and stress levels. We will also examine your tongue and feel your pulse—key TCM diagnostic methods—to create your unique treatment plan.