Hyperthyroidism
Also known as: overactive thyroid, Graves' disease, thyrotoxicosis, toxic nodular goitre
Hyperthyroidism is excess thyroid hormone production, most often from Graves' disease. Biomedical management (antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, surgery) is primary; Chinese medicine is adjunctive only, addressing palpitations, heat intolerance, tremor, anxiety and weight loss, and supporting recovery after thyroid levels normalise.
Plain-English one-pager you can print or hand to a patient. Free, no sign-in needed.
Lifestyle & Diet
- •Avoid excess dietary iodine (kelp, seaweed supplements) while thyrotoxic.
- •Limit caffeine and stimulants, which amplify palpitations and tremor.
- •Gentle exercise only until heart rate is controlled; avoid intense exertion while thyrotoxic.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Do not use iodine-rich seaweed herbs (Hǎi Zǎo, Kūn Bù) in active hyperthyroidism.[]
- •Acupuncture is adjunctive only — never advise stopping or delaying antithyroid medication, radioactive iodine or surgery.[]
- •Avoid strong heat-producing moxibustion in Yin-deficiency Heat presentations.[]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture treat an overactive thyroid?+
No — hyperthyroidism needs biomedical treatment (antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine or surgery). Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are adjunctive only, helping with symptoms such as palpitations, anxiety and insomnia while thyroid function is medically managed.
Are there herbs to avoid with hyperthyroidism?+
Yes. Iodine-rich seaweeds such as Hǎi Zǎo and Kūn Bù can worsen thyrotoxicosis, and stimulating herbs are generally inappropriate. Herbal treatment should be prescribed by a qualified practitioner aware of your thyroid status and medications.
Explore more diseases
Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.