Holy basil with thyroid medication?


 I am on a thyroid medication a T3 T4 compound can I take holy basil with it? I heard it is wonderful for stress, but was concerned because I have read that it does affect the endocrine system. Yes, I am under stress.

 Holy basil is an herb that falls under the category of an "adaptogen". This family of herbs gets it name from it ability to help the body "adapt" to changes and stress. Other members of this family include ginseng, licorice, ashwaganda, rhodiola, maca and oat straw. They offer wonderful support for people under stress whether from an acute crisis or just related to an over-packed schedule of work, family and play. They are thought to support the endocrine system and help the body deal with stress by enhancing the communication between the brain and the organ primarily responsible for buffering stress, the adrenal glands. When communication is optimal the body can have the most efficient and appropriate response to stress. Generally, these herbs are not a concern in regards to thyroid medication. Often times, they help people get a better response to their thyroid medication because they are helping to regulate certain aspects of the endocrine response. Even-though they are separate, the different components of the endocrine system must be working in harmony with each other in order for people to obtain optimal health. In Health, Dr. Passero

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Lead Medical Director

As a certified and fully trained Naturopathic Doctor, Passero has trained and preceptored with some of the nation's leading doctors in the field of natural medicine, working under the guidance of MD’s, Chiropractors, Naturopaths and Acupuncturists. Furthermore, he is currently the Vice President of the Maryland Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

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