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Thyroid Health and Healing through Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture

  • Writer: Dr. Shannon Robinson
    Dr. Shannon Robinson
  • Aug 3, 2025
  • 3 min read

Thyroid health plays a critical role in overall well-being, affecting everything from metabolism and energy levels to mood and heart function. When the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, is out of balance, it can cause a range of symptoms, such as fatigue, weight gain, anxiety, depression, and even infertility. While Western medicine often approaches thyroid conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism with medication and sometimes surgery, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic perspective, focusing on addressing the root cause and restoring balance in the body.


As an acupuncturist trained in TCM, I work with patients to support thyroid health through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle recommendations. In this blog, I’ll explore the

function of the thyroid, how imbalances manifest, and how TCM and acupuncture can help promote thyroid healing naturally.


Understanding the Thyroid: Function and Importance

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, impacting energy levels, temperature regulation, and heart function. The two main thyroid hormones—triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4)—influence nearly every cell and organ in the body. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, it can either produce too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism), leading to various symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Imbalance:

  • Hypothyroidism: Fatigue, weight gain, depression, cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin.

  • Hyperthyroidism: Anxiety, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, irritability.

Over time, untreated thyroid dysfunction can contribute to more serious health issues, making early intervention and holistic support essential.


The Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

Traditional Chinese medicine views thyroid imbalances not as isolated glandular issues but as part of a greater systemic imbalance in the body. TCM considers the interconnectedness of energy (Qi), blood, and organ function, identifying patterns of disharmony that may contribute to thyroid dysfunction.

In TCM, thyroid disorders are often linked to imbalances in the Kidney Yin, Kidney Yang, Liver Qi, and Spleen Qi:

  • Hypothyroidism is often associated with a Kidney Yang or Spleen Qi deficiency, leading to fatigue, sluggish metabolism, and sensitivity to cold.

  • Hyperthyroidism is often tied to Liver Qi stagnation or Kidney Yin deficiency, resulting in symptoms like restlessness, anxiety, and excessive heat in the body.

Rather than simply treating symptoms, TCM works to correct the underlying imbalance, restoring harmony and improving overall health.


How Acupuncture Supports Thyroid Healing

Acupuncture is a key modality in TCM that works to balance the flow of energy in the body, improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and regulating the endocrine system. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, I help patients address underlying imbalances contributing to thyroid dysfunction.

Key Acupuncture Points for Thyroid Health:

  • CV22 (Heavenly Prominence) – Located on the throat, this point helps regulate respiratory and endocrine function.

  • ST9 (Man’s Welcome) – Located near the thyroid gland, this point is used to support circulation and thyroid function.

  • LI4 (Joining Valley) – A powerful point for reducing inflammation and regulating energy flow.

  • KD3 (Great Ravine) – Strengthens Kidney Yin and Yang, which are key to thyroid balance.

Regular acupuncture sessions help bring the body back into balance, alleviating symptoms and promoting long-term healing. Many patients experience improved energy, better sleep, and more stabilized moods with ongoing treatment.


Herbal Medicine for Thyroid Support

In addition to acupuncture, I often incorporate customized herbal medicine to support thyroid function. Herbal formulas are tailored to address specific imbalances, helping to nourish Kidney Yin, boost Spleen Qi, or soothe Liver Qi stagnation. Some commonly used herbs include:

  • Rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) – Nourishes Kidney Yin and supports hormonal balance.

  • Ginseng (Ren Shen) – Boosts energy by strengthening Spleen Qi.

  • Bupleurum (Chai Hu) – Helps move stagnant Liver Qi, a common factor in hyperthyroid cases.

Herbal medicine works synergistically with acupuncture, providing a natural, ongoing means of supporting thyroid health.


The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle

In TCM, diet and lifestyle are essential for maintaining thyroid health. I often recommend dietary and lifestyle changes to complement treatment, such as:

  • Eating warm, cooked meals that support digestion and metabolism.

  • Avoiding excessive raw and cold foods, especially for hypothyroidism.

  • Incorporating stress-reducing practices like Qi Gong, Tai Chi, or meditation to regulate the nervous system.

Because stress can exacerbate thyroid imbalances, creating a daily routine that encourages relaxation and balance is key to long-term healing.



Supporting Your Thyroid Naturally

If you’re struggling with thyroid health and looking for a natural, holistic approach, acupuncture, and TCM may offer a gentle yet effective path to healing. By addressing the root imbalances contributing to thyroid dysfunction, we can work together to restore balance, alleviate symptoms, and support your overall well-being.


If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment, I’d love to help you on your journey toward better thyroid health. Reach out today to begin your personalized healing plan.


 
 
 

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