Adaptogens for Thyroid Health: Do They Help?

Adaptogens are herbs and functional mushrooms that help your body handle stress. They don’t work like strong stimulants or sedatives. Instead, they gently support stress hormones, calm inflammation, and help cells make energy -- so it’s easier to think clearly, sleep well, and bounce back after tough days.

Adaptogens' far-reaching, nonspecific effects may combine to indirectly support thyroid function. However, they are not a replacement for thyroid therapies administered by your doctor. Instead, adaptogens are more like helpful add-ons to the basics of thyroid care. In this article, we'll cover some top adaptogens that may indirectly support thyroid function. Let's get to it!

Adaptogens and Thyroid Defined

Adaptogens are a class of botanicals and fungi used in traditional herbalism to help strengthen resistance to stress and restore inner balance. In other words, they help the body "adapt" to stress.

Adaptogens are believed exert their normalizing and balancing effects on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal glands (HPA) axis and autonomic nervous system. They also supply cell protective antioxidant activity, soothe immune responses, and help with cell energy production.

In practice, that can look like steadier mood and focus, better sleep quality, and a greater capacity to handle physical and mental load without crashing.

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that works with the brain and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis to set metabolic pace; kind of like "operating speed" of your physiology.

The thyroid gland produces mainly thyroxine (T4 hormone), which is converted around the body to the more active triiodothyronine (T3). Together these hormones influence temperature, energy, heart rate, digestion, mood, periods, and cholesterol. Good sleep, enough iodine/selenium/iron, and a healthy liver and gut all help this system work well.

Where do adaptogens fit in with thyroid function?

Most of adaptogens' thyroid effects are indirect. By smoothing out the stress response and improving sleep and recovery, adaptogens can reduce the stress hormone cortisol's “slowing” effect that often impairs thyroid signaling.

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Some adaptogens may also help thyroid conversion and clearance indirectly, via liver support and antioxidant activity. Adaptogens that modulate immune responses may also help by keeping inflammation in normal range, which may further indirectly support the thyroid.

A few adaptogens have some evidence for influencing the thyroid in specific situations (for example, ashwagandha in subclinical hypothyroidism). But strong human research showing adaptogens help the thyroid is still limited. Read our Ultimate List of Adaptogens article

Think of adaptogens as complementary herbs for supporting systems and functions that are related to thyroid health -- stress, sleep, inflammation, and metabolic resilience -- best used alongside fundamentals (nutrition, micronutrients, movement) and with medical guidance if you have a diagnosed thyroid disorder or take thyroid medication.

Next let's dig into the specific adaptogens that have been linked to the thyroid gland.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

In Ayurvedic medicine (the traditional wellness system of India), ashwagandha is a classic rasayana -- a rejuvenating herb given to restore vitality, stamina, and calm resilience, especially during health challenges, stress, and other times of heavy mental or physical load.

For centuries, Ashwagandha root has been prepared as powders, tonics, and ghee-based formulations to steady the nerves, promote sleep, and rebuild strength. This historical profile matches up well with its modern use as a broad-spectrum adaptogen for stress, energy, and recovery.

How Ashwagandha Could Influence Thyroid

Ashwagandha’s bioactives (notably withanolides) appear to modulate multiple stress and endocrine system functions that connect with the thyroid. By calming overactive HPA-axis signaling and improving sleep and mood, it may indirectly support the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis, which is sensitive to chronic stress.

In animal studies, researchers found that ashwagandha could raise thyroid hormones (T4 and sometimes T3), protect the thyroid from oxidative damage, and improve the look and function of thyroid tissue -- suggesting better hormone production and conversion under stress. Ashwagandha may work by calming stress hormones, boosting the thyroid’s antioxidant defenses, and helping the enzymes that turn T4 into the more active T3.(1,2)

Human Research Insight

Adults with mildly underactive thyroid took 600 mg/day Ashwagandha root extract or placebo. The Ashwagandha group showed higher T3/T4 thyroid hormones, with more people’s labs moving back toward the normal range; side effects were mild.(3)

In a study of an Ashwagandha extract (500 mg/day) vs. placebo, three participants on Ashwagandha had 7–24% rises in free T4, and one person’s subclinical hypothyroid TSH normalized. These thyroid findings were considered early and exploratory.(4)

A brief report summarized by the U.S. National Institutes of Health indicates three adult men taking 500 mg/day of a standardized Ashwagandha root-and-leaf extract for 8 weeks had small increases in blood T4 -- a modest, short-term shift.(5)

What does it all mean? These studies are short and relatively small. The current human evidence suggests that ashwagandha may help normalize thyroid indices in subclinical hypothyroidism, potentially via stress-axis support plus direct thyroidal effects seen in animals. Overall, Ashwagandha is best considered as a complementary therapy for thyroid function, not a replacement for conventional therapies administered by your doctor.

Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum / O. sanctum), also known as the "Queen of Herbs," is one of Ayurveda’s most important plants -- used for millennia to support immune system function, calm the mind, and enhance feelings of vitality. Traditionally sipped as a daily tea and used in tonics, tulsi is also known for gently steadying the stress response (often described as regulating cortisol levels), supporting focus and mood, helping to balance blood glucose levels, and improving sleep quality without sedation.

Tulsi’s most relevant thyroid connection appears to be indirect: by blunting the stress response (lowering cortisol and sympathetic arousal), it may help reduce stress-induced disruptions of thyroid hormone signaling.

Human Research Insight

In an 8-week randomized, double-blind trial, a standardized extract of holy basil (Holixer™, 125 mg twice daily) reduced perceived stress, lowered cortisol, and improved sleep quality -- all of which reflect overall stress load. These anti-stress effects could help create a more favorable body environment for thyroid regulation in stressed individuals.(6)

Despite promising human research on general adaptogen benefits, tulsi may not be ideal for thyroid. Animal research has actually reported antithyroid activity from Tulsi: in male mice, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract significantly reduced serum T4 (with no change in T3), suggesting possible disruption of thyroid hormone production.(7)

Overall, Tulsi is a credible stress-busting adaptogen with some promising human research on cortisol and sleep -- factors that can indirectly support thyroid well-being under stress.

Panax Ginseng (Asian/Korean Ginseng)

Panax ginseng (also called Asian ginseng or Korean ginseng) has been a key componenet of Traditional Chinese Medicine for more than two millennia as a qi-tonic to restore stamina, sharpen cognition, and strengthen resilience under stress. Modern research attributes its broad activity to ginsenosides and related compounds that appear to have stress-busting, energy-raising, and immune-boosting effects.

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Early lab and animal studies suggest ginseng may help body systems that talk to the thyroid. It seems to soothe inflammation and fight oxidative stress in thyroid cells (and elsewhere in the body), steady daily “body clock” signals, and influence an enzyme (DIO1) that turns the thyroid hormone T4 into the active T3. Taken together, these effects could gently boost how your body uses energy and produces heat -- processes closely tied to thyroid function.

Let's take a look at some animal research:

Hypothyroidism models (rats): In rats made hypothyroid, red ginseng raised thyroid hormone levels (T3 and T4), increased resting energy use (more oxygen consumption and heat production), and activated AMPK in the liver. This may suggest ginseng indirectly helps support hormone output and energy metabolism when thyroid function is low.(8)

Hyperthyroidism models (rats): In rats made hyperthyroid, Korean red ginseng water extract lowered the abnormally high thyroid hormone levels and improved the microscopic health of the thyroid and liver. This points to a context-dependent, “normalizing” effect rather than simply pushing thyroid activity in one direction.(9)

Current evidence for direct thyroid-hormone benefits of ginseng in humans is limited; the strongest signals come from animal studies. Still, the pre-clinical profile of ginseng seems to suggest it may be helpful for people dealing with thyroid-related stress or thyroid health concerns.

Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng)

Eleutherococcus senticosus -- commonly called eleuthero or “Siberian ginseng” -- is a classic East-European and East-Asian tonic herb. Unlike Panax ginseng, it contains active compounds called eleutherosides (not ginsenosides).

Traditionally, eleuthero has been used to boost stamina, raise energy levels, sharpen mental performance, and bolster resistance to physical and emotional stress. It has long been favored in Russia for workers, athletes, and cosmonauts during demanding conditions. Modern herablism also recognizes its potential for fighting fatigue and supporting recovery after health challenges.

How It May Intersect with Thyroid Physiology

Eleuthero hasn’t been shown in humans to directly change thyroid lab results (TSH, free T4, free T3). But it may still help the “environment” around thyroid health by blunting stress reactions (slower heart-rate and fewer high blood pressure spikes during acute stress), nudging immune balance, and supporting energy metabolism and exercise capacity.

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In a small randomized, placebo-controlled study of healthy adults, people who took eleuthero had a milder “fight-or-flight” response during a challenging mental task: their heart rate and blood pressure didn’t spike as much, and they recovered a bit more smoothly afterward compared with placebo. At rest there wasn’t much difference, and the herb was well tolerated -- its effect showed up mainly when the body was under acute stress.(10)

Why this may be significant: chronic or repeated stress can dampen the brain-to-thyroid signaling loop (HPT axis). By blunting stress reactivity, an adaptogen like eleuthero may help reduce stress's interference with thyroid signaling over time.

In another randomized clinical trial, researchers reported that subjects taking 800 mg/day of eleuthero demonstrated longer time-to-exhaustion after the herb (versus placebo). This benefit may help sustain activity levels, weight control, and overall metabolic health -- all of which are relevant to anyone facing thyroid health concerns.(11)

All told, eleuthero shows adaptogenic effects on stress resistance, immune function, and exercise capacity. While such changes can indirectly support people managing thyroid concerns (by easing stress load and sustaining activity), keep in mind that there is no high-quality human evidence that eleuthero normalizes thyroid hormones.

Schisandra, Rhodiola, Reishi

Note: None of the following adaptogens have strong human trials showing direct, reliable changes in TSH, T3, or T4. Their potential thyroid relevance is indirect but may offer some complementary support.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis): Classic adaptogen in East Asian herbalism; modern work highlights liver-protective, antioxidant, and stress-regulating effects.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Best known for anti-fatigue/anti-stress effects (it's also been tied to adrenal fatigue) that can reduce perceived strain during periods of high demand -- potentially useful where chronic stress may disrupt normal hormone signaling. Get the full scoop on Rhodiola as a brain-boosting nootropic

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Immune-regulating mushroom used to promote soothing calm, restorative sleep, and healthy immune balance. Find out all about the top benefits of adaptogen mushrooms

Like other adaptogens in this guide, Schisandra (liver support), Rhodiola (stress buffering), and Reishi (immune modulation/sleep) may create a more thyroid-friendly environment, but they’re best considered complementary herbs for modern therapies. Regardless, they may not be the best evidence-backed adaptogen picks for thyroid.

Next up, let's take a look at some other natural and complementary approaches to supporting healthy thyroid function.

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Science-Backed Ways to Support Thyroid Health (Naturally)

• Hit (but don’t exceed) iodine needs: Use iodized salt and iodine-containing foods (eggs, dairy, seafood). Avoid high-dose iodine and kelp/seaweed supplements unless prescribed -- too much can trigger hypo/hyperthyroid flares.
• Get enough selenium: Supports thyroid hormone metabolism and antioxidant defense (e.g., 1–2 Brazil nuts occasionally, seafood, eggs). Selenium supplementation can also help. Find out more about selenium benefits
• Prioritize protein and micronutrient-dense meals: Adequate calories and high-quality protein support hormone production, recovery, and lean mass—avoid chronic severe calorie restriction.
• Correct iron, zinc, and vitamin D nutrient deficiencies: Iron and zinc are involved in thyroid hormone synthesis and conversion; vitamin D deficiency is common in autoimmune thyroid disease. Test and replete as needed. Discover ultramodern multivitamin dietary supplements that supply thyroid basics
• Manage chronic stress: Use evidence-based tools (sleep hygiene, mindfulness, resistance + aerobic exercise, paced breathing) to reduce cortisol drag on the HPT axis.
• Support liver and gut health: Thyroid hormone activation (T4→T3) and clearance rely on the liver and gut; emphasize fiber, colorful plants, and fermented foods; limit heavy alcohol intake. Check out Prebiotic Fiber benefits for gut health
• Move regularly: Combine aerobic activity with 2–3 weekly strength sessions to improve fatigue, mood, cardiometabolic health, and weight management (work with your clinician if symptoms are uncontrolled).
• Sleep 7–9 hours consistently: Stable sleep improves hormonal rhythms, mood, and energy -- key for perceived “thyroid” symptoms.
• Screen when appropriate: If you have symptoms plus risk factors, ask about testing for iodine status, celiac disease (in autoimmune thyroiditis), iron/B12/vitamin D, and lipid/glucose health.
• Consider additional supplements under direction of healthcare professional: Selenium (sometimes with myo-inositol); omega-3 fatty acids for immune support; and stress-modulating adaptogens as adjuncts.

Summary

Adaptogens aren’t thyroid medicines, but they can help the systems that influence thyroid health. By easing the body's stress response, improving sleep quality, soothing inflammation, and supporting liver and immune system function, they create a more “thyroid-friendly” environment for making, converting, and using thyroid hormones.

Among the herbs discussed, ashwagandha has the clearest human signal for helping with thyroid dysfunction -- small trials suggest it may improve labs in people with subclinical hypothyroidism -- though rare cases of overstimulation have been reported, so medical guidance is essential. Panax ginseng, eleuthero, tulsi, rhodiola, schisandra, and reishi are better viewed as indirect helpers: they support stress resilience, recovery, liver processing, immune balance, and sleep -- factors that often make thyroid symptoms feel better even if the gland itself isn’t directly targeted.

If you choose to try an adaptogen, keep expectations realistic: start with one standardized product, use it consistently, and check in with your clinician after 6–8 weeks to review TSH, free T4 (and possibly free T3) and your symptoms. Most importantly, anchor your plan in fundamentals -- adequate iodine, selenium, and iron; steady sleep; smart stress management; and movement -- while following any prescribed thyroid treatment. Used this way, adaptogens can be thoughtful allies in a broader, evidence-informed approach to thyroid well-being.