ModerateGBS: 77 (Moderate-High Risk)autoimmune

Thyroid Optimization - Graves'/Hyperthyroid

Developer: Elaine Moore, integrative endocrinologists

6-18 months to remission, some need ongoing low-dose management

Protocol Overview

Natural and integrative protocol for Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism using antithyroid support, immune modulation, and lifestyle modification. Alternative or complement to radioactive iodine/thyroidectomy.

Conditions Treated

Graves' disease

hyperthyroidism

thyrotoxicosis

Protocol Steps

Testing: TSH (suppressed in Graves'), free T3 (elevated), free T4 (elevated), TSI (thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin - specific to Graves'), TPO/TG antibodies, thyroid ultrasound, consider thyroid uptake scan

Medication (may be necessary): Methimazole 10-40mg daily OR propylthiouracil (PTU) 100-300mg 3x/day to block thyroid hormone production while implementing natural protocol - work with endocrinologist

Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus): 1-2g 3x/day or tincture - inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and release (natural antithyroid herb)

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): 300-500mg 3x/day - blocks TSH receptor, reduces thyroid activity

Motherwort: 300mg 3x/day - helps with heart palpitations, anxiety from hyperthyroidism

L-carnitine: 2-4g daily in divided doses - prevents thyroid hormone from entering cells, reduces symptoms (studied in hyperthyroidism)

LDN (Low-Dose Naltrexone): 3-4.5mg at bedtime - immune modulation to reduce TSI antibodies (Graves' is autoimmune)

Selenium: 200mcg daily - immune modulation, reduces inflammation

Vitamin D: Optimize to 60-80 ng/ml (immune modulation)

Avoid iodine: Strictly avoid kelp, seaweed, iodine supplements, iodinated contrast dyes (can trigger thyroid storm)

Manage stress: Graves' often triggered by major stress - meditation, adaptogenic herbs (but not stimulating ones), therapy, rest

Beta-blockers: Propranolol 20-40mg 2-3x/day for heart palpitations, tremor, anxiety (temporary while treating)

Anti-inflammatory diet: Reduce inflammation to calm autoimmune response - eliminate gluten, dairy, processed foods

Address triggers: Emotional stress, infections, iodine excess, pregnancy/postpartum

Monitor closely: Weekly initially (free T3, free T4, TSH), adjust antithyroid medication as thyroid normalizes to avoid becoming hypothyroid

Key Resources

The Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism Handbook by Elaine Moore, endocrinology literature, integrative endocrinologists

Contraindications & Risks

Pregnancy (PTU preferred over methimazole in first trimester), liver disease (antithyroid drugs), thyroid storm (medical emergency)

Important Notes

Graves' is autoimmune hyperthyroidism (TSI antibodies stimulate thyroid). Conventional treatment: antithyroid drugs for 12-18 months, then often radioactive iodine (destroys thyroid) or surgery. Natural approach aims for remission without destroying thyroid. Bugleweed and lemon balm have traditional use and some evidence for mild hyperthyroidism. L-carnitine blocks thyroid hormone entry into cells - studied in hyperthyroidism with benefit. LDN for immune modulation. Stress management crucial - Graves' often triggered by major life stress. Avoid iodine strictly (opposite of hypothyroid). Many patients achieve remission with natural protocol + antithyroid drugs, then taper drugs. Some relapse and need ongoing management. Close monitoring essential - hyperthyroidism is dangerous (heart, bone). Work with open-minded endocrinologist. Natural approach buys time for immune system to calm without destroying thyroid.

Also Effective For

Graves' Disease (Hyperthyroidism)

Key Supplements & Herbs in This Protocol

Supplements

Iodine Selenium L-Carnitine

Herbs

Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

Critical Safety Warning

This protocol is documented for educational purposes only. The Gabriel Bullshit Score (GBS) of 77 reflects significant institutional response and controversy. Some alternative health protocols have resulted in serious harm or death.

Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before beginning any treatment. Do not delay or forego proven medical care.

Quick Overview

Evidence LevelModerate

GBS Score77 / 100

Categoryautoimmune

DeveloperElaine Moore, integrative endocrinologists

Duration6-18 months to remission, some need ongoing low-dose management

About GBS Score

The Gabriel Bullshit Score reflects the magnitude of institutional response, controversy, and documented concerns. Higher scores indicate greater institutional pushback, not necessarily inefficacy. This is a research tool, not medical advice.