Natural Graves' Disease Treatment

I had very bad hyperthyroidism a few years back along with the bulging eyes. They were very dry and very large. I found drinking 100% goji berry juice gave immediate relief within 24 -48 hours.

Goji's are from the Himalaya's and grown and used extensively for eye health there. This juice changed my life, no more pain and within a short time they looked and felt normal again. Try the dried berries as well perhaps.

Good luck with it.

I hope you see this message. How did you use apricot seed? How much and how often? How long approximately? Thank you.

2. CBD 1500 mg ( 30ml)

The above 2, combined with L-carnitine ( also acetyl L-carnitine), took grave's disease and all its symptoms ( with thyroid eye disease, graves' dermopathy) to the trash can.

I used hemp heal 1500mg dose. Roughly 5 bottles of each. I no longer have graves'. I did at the beginning use some bugleweed. But it's still sitting in the cupboard. Relapse is always possible I suppose but after you get rid of the carb build ups, all you need is R 51. Which is roughly 38$ Canadian and will last you 2-4 months. Depending on the timeline of your treatment.

At first, you will take 5-10 drops 2-3 times a day. Then you'll graduate to 5 am and pm. Then 5 a day and eventually nothing. This will take a year maybe, depending on the person.

This really worked for me and at least one other person, it was recommended to me through a work acquaintance.

I have Hashimotos and Graves antibodies which caused TED, I'm looking at taking Bugleweed but I'm also low in Iodine. So I'm afraid to take it..

I just read your earth clinic review on royal jelly and was wondering how long did this treatment work for you or did you have to go on medication?

It is my understanding is that Graves can sometimes be caused by a sudden increase in iodine intake. I think mine was. My ND has a theory that organic iodine (as in kelp) could be safe whereas inorganic iodine (lugols) might be a problem. I've taken kelp and while I haven't noticed the improvement that others have, it has not affected me adversely.

Evelyn, thank you for your post. I was just diagnosed with Graves and I am terrified of losing my thyroid. Did you get bloodwork to pinpoint exactly what you were lacking with your -primary doctor? Let me know please...thank you

Hello, I was diagnosed with Grave's disease 6 months ago. TRAB antibodies very high. I did not take medication from the doctor.

I took L-Carnitine 1000mg 3 times a day, from Life Extension. I also took Alpha Lipoic Acid 3 times a day. Both L- Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic Acid slow down the thyroid. In addition I took bugleweed and a plant mixture called Thyroid Calming ( Herb Pharm). It worked wonders for me.

I also brought my Vit. D to a high level, which is key in autoimmune disease ( I was Low) I am also taking Zinc, which is also key for autoimmune disease. I am now in remission. So I stopped taking L- Carnitine, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Bugleweed and Thyroid Calming drops.

What I continue with is large doses of Omega 3, Selenium, Zinc, Vit. D, Vit. A, Vit. B complex and twice a week Glutathione IV 1000mg. The glutathione helps to prevent eyes from bulging. At the beginning of the disease one eye started bulging. With the glutathione IV it went back. As I read that the eyes are at risk for about 3 to 5 years even after the thyroid is back to normal I will continue with the Glutathione.

My eyes are good except for dryness. In the left eye I was diagnosed with Superior Limbic Keratoconjunctivitis ( SLK) It is a rare eye disease which is often found in people with thyroid problems. A very excellent webpage for Graves' disease is the one of Dr. Osansky, Natural Endocrine Solution. In fact I followed completely his advice!!!! Please go and read on his webpage, it is all in there.

Evelyn

I am a 70 years old man. I am interested in sports: tennis, golf, cycling, alpine skiing, cross country skiing.

Two years ago I got sick of Grover's Disease. The whole body had a lot of itchy Grover's Disease.

I used a lot of hydrocortisone and other oils. There was no benefit from these.

I stopped eating the whole wheat. All the rash Grover's Disease was lost in two weeks.

I tried twice to eat wheat, Grover's Disease immediately came back.

Now it's good to be, not Grover's Disease. I am happy when I found the cause of Grover's Disease

Now I live a happy athlete's life, not Grover's Disease, no wheat.

Do you take medicine for Graves' disease along with the apricot seeds?

Hello. I want to know if the acupunture can cure thyroide eye disease? Thank you

Hello just wondering if anyone has had RAI & Orbital Radiation? I'm now suffering from bad dry eye my protrusion measurements are better...i dobt notice a difference. Anyhow want to know what other supplements help with inflammation that u notice a change in your eyes? Please help

Hello just wondering if anyone has had RAI & Orbital Radiation? I'm now suffering from bad dry eye my protrusion measurements are better...i dobt notice a difference. Anyhow want to know what other supplements help with inflammation that u notice a change in your eyes? Please help

Eve, I am also wondering what the result of the honey and royal jelly was on your eyes and how long did it take to see results?

Woo, this sounds wonderful where did you get the rose water at?

I completely agree about RAI. I was desperate to feel normal again and decided to do RAI. Since then, I have had budging eyes and will have to rely on meds for the rest of my life. I used to be carefree and secure about my appearance but now every day is a reminder of this disease. I take selenium, flaxseed, magnesium, l-carnititne, vit d, exercise daily, yoga...etc. Physically, I feel ok but my eyes have not changed much and it's been 6 years since RAI.....

Hi Jen Boseman, please be careful when advising selenium dose, as it is ALWAYS and importantly quoted as micrograms.

We in NZ have the topmost global statistics for breast cancer for women and bowel cancer for men. it is absent in all our food, and not present in the soil.

This is because our land has been scoured by glaciers and they grind and turn in their movement down the valleys and this action has pulled the selenium out of the land and it has then been washed out to sea.

All the sheep here have to be dosed with selenium or they get something called white muscle and they cannot carry their lambs to term.

If you take 300 or 400mg of selenium daily it will kill you!!

This is the second posting in this thread that has advised these amounts.

Medical doctors range interpretation of lab tests, is different than naturopathic doctors. My MD is also an ND he told me that some people need higher levels of certain vitamins to feel good beyond what the range suggests. When an ND see you are headed in the direction of getting low in vitamin they will have you supplement this is preventive medicine. Many times it is best to go on food elimination diet, and get vitamin and micro-nutrient test to check for deficiencies. Working with an ND has proved to most beneficial I would never remove an organ when it was unnecessary in this case

Hi, Can you tell me where I can find the eyes exercises online. Thanks

So when you did this, did you end up using the regular black tea or did you use the green tea?

Have had Graves for 2 years and Graves opthamology for 1 year. Let me know if the apricot seeds helped with bulging eyes.

Hi Eve,

Just wondering how long you were washing your eyes with honey for before you started to see results? And also with the pure royal jelly. Thanks.

I would love to know if the apricot seeds helped with your eye swelling....I am in tears this morning because I am so tired of looking and feeling horrible about myself because of how much my eyes protrude and swell. I hope you are doing much better!! :)...God bless

I hve just stumbled on this site. I hve a problem with bulging eyes. Please tell me how to do the eye excising. Thank you.

Hi Michelle Melbourne,

Can you please tell me how many times have to do this exercise a day and also suggest eye drops. Now I am using lubi fresh lubricant eye drops.

Waiting for the reply. Thanks

Viji

Hi,

For past three months I suffering from thyroid eye disease. But I started to take the medicine for thyroid one and half month ago. I seen changes in my throat. It reduced little bit. But my eyes (Bulge eye) remains same. It affect only in my right eyes.

Please recommend me the eye drops.

Waiting for your reply.

Regards, Viji

Dear Aniysd,

Herbalist John Christoph says to use 5-30 seeds daily until a thyroid tumor disappears. So when treating the thyroid with apricot seeds, I personally would start with 5 daily and see how it goes, and would not take more than 30 a day. I think it is nearly always best to start with the lowest amount and work up to more if needed.

~Mama to Many~

Could you please explain how did you use the Apricot seeds?

Can any one tell me what are the exercises I should do to reduce bulging in one eye due to thyroid. I would appreciate if you recommend me eye drops also.

Thanks, for sharing, did the acupuncture cure bulging eyes?

OMG, I'M SO HAPPY!! The exercise really works, my eye looks so much better it looks more normal than the other Eye. I only had bulge in one eye, I cried every night. I started 2 nights ago and I already see the change, GOD IS GOOD!!

By taking 500 mg of Ashwaghandha twice a day, i.e after breakfast and after dinner, all my symptoms of Hyperthyroidism/ graves disease came down in two weeks and I am permanently cured. If this remedy works for you, continue the treatment for one and a half years since it takes a long time for the adrenal glands to heal (see article by Dr. Axe for the connection between adrenals and thyroid glands).

I also took and continue to take Patanjali's Madhunashini Vati and Mukta Vati to stabilise blood sugar and blood pressure, both of which were not normal due to hyperthyroidism. Now I take no allopathic medicine at all.

Ashwaghandha is also curing my melasma which was on my entire back, hands and face. This is happening gradually and permanently.

Totally agree with you Madelaine. RAI is a dreadful 'treatment' for Graves Disease and/or Hyperthyroidism, causing more harm than good for many people.

I used Borax to heal mine (had been suffering from it since diagnosed in 2005) and although I did write a review in Earth Clinic describing how I took Borax and the effect its had in detail, I don't think my review was ever approved because I haven't seen it listed anywhere (although this is a big and confusing site to navigate so maybe it found its way to an obscure page somewhere).

Anyway, Borax worked for me. No taste to it, no smell - just 1 level metric teaspoon in 1 litre of clean water (not tap water) as the 'concentrate' and then I took 15ml of the concentrate 4 times a day in a glass of water.

I was one of the few people (1 in 10,000 or something like that) who actually gained weight with Graves Disease/Hyperthyroidism but Borax restored my normal weight within just 2 or 3 weeks (and I'm 59, not a teenager), amongst all the other wonderful things it's done for me, but most especially my thyroid, which is so obviously no longer enlarged/swollen/bulging.

There's no choking on food anymore, either, now that the swelling as gone down.

It also strengthened my bones dramatically (I also chew on lemon flavoured cod liver oil capsules during the day as well that I order from the U.S. - they're delicious! ); they'd become so weak in a very short period of time after RAI (a matter of weeks, not months) that it was hard not to stumble and fall and keep myself upright; when that happened, I didn't have the strength to lift myself back up again. It was a frightening situation to be in.

I also never had the 'bulging eye' appearance until after RAI and while they haven't completely subsided yet, they have subsided a considerable amount - I can smile at kids again without scaring them, at least. I'm confident they will return to normal as I keep taking Borax.

Thankfully, RAI failed to 'kill off' my thyroid entirely, having only destroyed the left side, which, naturally, made the right side have to work much harder. Oddly enough, that failure seemed to make the so-called 'specialist' angry. Gee. Wonder why.

I will never trust the medical profession again with my health now that simple Borax is getting every part of it back on track with no nonsense and no toxic side effects.

Hi, I have hyperthyroidism half a year ago. My eyes are bulging. Do you discover any treatment for bulging eyes. How are you now?

Thank you so much for sharing the green tea story! I will definitely try it!

Hi! Thank you so much for your encouraging post.

I really feel like the RAI affected me so badly, but I am still hoping that I would be able to get rid of its side effects especially now that I found your advice on this site. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in 2010; I was just 20 at that time. My doctor gave me a drug (I forgot its name; I choose to because it gave me terror). I got allergic to this drug. I suffered severe allergies, and my life was put to danger at that time. I actually almost died, and my doctor said I need to have the RAI or surgery immediately. I choose the RAI since it is cheaper, and I was very afraid to have the surgery at that time. Tho the RAI gave me a lot of side effects, I'm still thankful about it because I believe it saved my life since I have the rare case of having allergies from the prescribed drug. My doctor gave me a different drug prescription after that so to control my ft3, ft4, and tsh. Luckily, my thyroid hormones are back to normal now based on my blood test, unfortunately tho, the RAI still left me with the bulging eyes. This makes me feel depressed almost everyday. I am looking for remedies on how to get rid of bulging eyes, and I am very much willing to take your suggestions. I just have few questions.

How many mg of Selenium should I take? Can you suggest a brand for this? Thank you in advance!

Hi! I know you have posted this 3 years ago, but I hope you will still be able to read my response. I seriously shed some tears after reading your advice. This gives me a lot of hope, and I thank you a lot for sharing your experience! I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in 2010, and my eyes started to bulge then on. I had RAI in 2012, and I felt better after that. However, it seems that it made my eyes bulge even more. Although my thyroid hormones are normal already based on my blood test, my eyes aren't back to normal yet. I actually thought that I had to just accept it and live with it for the rest of my life. However, the thought of having this pair of bulging eyes forever really makes me feel depressed. I am no longer the same person I was before. Honestly, before being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, people always noticed my eyes because of their rare beauty, but now, people notice them because of their unusual size, and they do not look normal and beautiful at all. This really makes me feel bad. I lost my confidence and self-esteem, and whenever I see myself in ID pictures that are focused on my face and expose my bulging eyes, I see myself very ugly. I always pray that my eyes would be back to normal again, and this site gives me a lot of hope that my prayers will be granted. Thanks to earth clinic and to you and other people who shared how they are able to get rid of their bulging eyes. I am very much excited to try these remedies soon. I will post an update regarding this, but I am really hoping for a positive result. Wish me luck! Thanks again!

God bless all of us!

I see Dr. Joe Holcomb in Kalispell. He is a Naturopath and has done wonders for my Graves Disease and Adrenal Fatigue. He treats me by symptoms not labs. I cannot stress enough how much he has done for me!!!!

Hi Jen. I have recently been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and won't see the endo in Missoula until January 14. My GP feels it is Graves due to having high antibody and my radioactive uptake test.

Can you tell me who your naturopath is? I am only 1.25 hours from Bozeman and I am desperate to help myself naturally.

I am on 10 mg of Methimazole 3 x per day right now. My heart rate was so high that I had to do something. Do you know if I can take any of the herbs and or supplements while methimazole?

Any thoughts from you or anyone else in the group would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Jen or anyone who can offer suggestions,

I was on Earth Clinic and came across your insightful and very informative responses however I would like some guidance on my personal experience.

I was diagnosed unofficially one month ago with GD only because I did not want to be diagnosed with Radioactive uptake however my doctor was pretty certain based on my symptoms that I had GD.

I am now on Methimazole 30mg/day, Metoprolol 50 MG per day and Eliquis a blood thinner for prevention of a stroke since I have atrial fibrillation.

My question is, my endo has said to NOT take iodine while on these meds however, I have read on various articles that iodine can and should be taken for hyperthyroidism. So should I take iodine in combination with these meds or should I stop the meds then take iodine. Also it would seem some of these meds state one should not stop abruptly using as it can cause problems?

Also, if I am able to use iodine with the meds, does it make sense to also take the other supplements like thymus, selenium Etc?

I wish I had a naturopath to go to, never been to one, I live in Westport, CT... If you can advise on how to find a reliable one?

My major issue with me in particular is my heart beats like a race horse however I have appeared to have settled down overall, heart included these past four days.

Many many Thanks, :)

Hi. I suffer from bulging eyes due to graves disease. I wonder if the effect of the treatment was permanent?

I apologize for my misunderstanding, but when you say you inhaled it, do you put it up your nose? And you had said squirts. Did you put it is a spray bottle of sorts? And then put the drops in each nostril? Thank you for your help!

Checking to see if the honey treatment for your bulging eyes still worked or is working, 2 years later.

Hi, I was diagnosed with graves disease 6 yrs ago, I was terrified, especially after seeing the horrible pictures of people on TED Talks! Do not look these up in the internet (huge mistake) anyway 3 days after having a radioactive scan uptake test ((RAIU) to get a diagnosis, the eye symptoms started......I was on carbimazole for 8 months and was then very lucky to go into remission, I know that this is unusual and feel very fortunate, I have been in remission ever since, and do not need any medication.....

I was also very lucky that my eye disease was very mild though it took about 2 yrs to actually become inactive, my right eye was the one which had some mild proptosis and has remained slightly bigger than the left, but people tell me it's not noticeable, I quess only to me :-) and I can only say to anyone with Graves disease and TED, do NOT agree to Radioactive Iodine treatment (which is a type of internal radiotherapy for thyroid cancer) this can def make the eye symptoms worse, or even set it off in people who don't have eye problems!

This can also happen with any medical procedure requiring radioactive injections (i know, I had a sintigram 4 yrs after inactive eye disease and bam, 3 weeks later started with symptoms again! ) and definitely take Selenium supplements and Magnesium, these are the only supps I take, very very important and I believe stops the eye problems from developing or getting worse.

Lastly, Graves disease CANNOT be cured as some have suggested on this forum, it is with you for life, but can be controlled and can stay in remission for a lifetime, so it is NOT the end of the world and there are far worse illnesses to have....all the best to everyone xx

Hi Jen,

I completely agree with you about NOT REMOVING or doing the RAI. Doctors are fools thinking they're god when they can't control a disease.

I've had Graves for about 2 years. The first few months was pretty sure I was going to die. I did a ton of online research, my doctor advised against that, as if he wanted me to remain feeling horrible. After digging around online I found bugleweed. Then I found a natural pharmacy that put tinctures together in-house while you waited. It was there I met someone who also had Graves and he recommended a naturopath.

My doctor had set up RAI for me and I promptly cancelled it once I was armed with my own information that the doc knew nothing about.

The naturopath was a godsend and helped me realize that it was all of me that needed treating. Once I was able to 'get it' I was on my way to recovery. He gave me easy body tapping exercises that take no more than 5 minutes, I do them in the shower every morning. And of course, my diet. No gluten. No dairy. And I feel it when I cheat. I took many supplements whose names I forget and the only thing that I have taken consistently over the last 2 years is bugleweed. I get it in tincture and capsule. It tastes nasty!!

I've gone from being 160lbs at the beginning down to 120lbs within a few months and 2 years later I am back up to 145lbs. My biggest complaint is my lack of muscle and that seems to be getting a little bit better due to my weight gain. No bulging eyes, my HR is about 80, high but certainly not where it was at 130. I sleep. I avoid gluten like the plague.

I hope everyone reading this can take a step back and think thru what Jen said and how there is a better way to get better!!

Hi I have one bulging painful eye. I've tried the honey drops for about a week. I'm also doing eye excercises and eye stretching the flexibility of my eyes have improved but they are still very painful and the appearance has not improved. Could you share your photos with me, of before and after.

Today is day one with treating myself with Raw Organic Apricot Seed/Kernels.

There is a suggested use of starting out with just 6-10 kernels a day. I have consumed 4 this morning and will take 2 this evening. I am giving this experiment a 30 day trial test to establish whether I see any marked difference of my eyes that have been affected horribly by the graves disease.

I couldn't find any answers if apricot kernels really work to remove the bulging of eyes so, I became my own human study to see if the apricot kernels really reduce the bulging of eyes associated with graves eye disease. I hope the cyanide doesn't build up in my body and make me sick. I do not think it will as a person has to consume significant amounts of the kernels vs the dosage of the 10 kernels a day that I will be taking for 30 days.

Tomorrow, I will start consuming 5 kernels in the morning 5 in the afternoon for the 30 day period. If you would like to be updated on my experimental progress let me know.

I actually still meant the IgG testing as the IgE testing is only for anaphalactic/ histimine type reactions. Those allergies do not apply to our thyroids like IgG immune responses do. http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/home/eng/e-newsletter/igg_vs_ige.pdf

Here is an explanation of the differences. Most allergists do not believe IgG responses are responsible for doing any damage to our thyroids or any other body parts for that matter. You have to go to a Naturopath or some other healer who can do food allergy testing for you to get a better idea of what your IgG immune sensitivities are.

I also just realized someone wanted to know how I was doing now. I am much better. Still working on my health naturally as I did some things that may have caused my thyroid to go the other way. I am now only Hashimotos thyroid and my Graves is still in remission. It turns out I had both issues but was only experiencing Graves. But now my Hashimotos is dominant. I have had alot of stress lately as my husband just had a kidney transplant and was very ill before that so now we are trying to focus on getting me better again. Stress can do so much damage to our bodies:( I am still taking most of the supplements I listed above though. As they are so important to thyroid health. There are some new ones that I will list in a separate post.

You guys are so wonderful to share such promising information. I am filled with such hope as others who have responded here. Thank you all. Oh, my allergist told me he would test me for IgE once my thyroid got better so I believe that is what you meant to say (see below). Also, thanks again for listing out the minerals and vitamins, eye exercises, drinks, etc. So, very helpful!

An immunoglobulin E (IgE) test measures the blood level of IgE, one of the five subclasses of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system that attack antigens, such as bacteria, viruses, and allergens. IgE antibodies are found in the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes.

I have had Graves disease for almost two years. I had no eye or eye lid swelling until a couple of weeks after getting botox for frown muscles above my eyes, but over my eyelids. What a mistake. Apparently, my immune system then started attacking my eye tissue after it attacked the botox toxin. Please tell everyone to avoid botox when suffering from Graves disease because it can then cause the eyes to start swelling. Back to natural methods for reducing eye issues related to thyroid disease; I also read that magnesium is one of the number one minerals missing with those with this condition and how supplementing with the correct dose (in equal amounts to calcium, not on 2 to 1 ratio as previously thought), can reverse autoimmune disorders.

Hello everyone, I just came across the recipe for the eye wash with honey and rosewater. You get 2 teaspoons of 100% raw and unfiltered honey, 1/2 of teaspoon of rosewater. Mix well and place it in a eye dropper. Put 2-3 drops in each eye and do the eye exercises. Good luck to all. I am going to try it tonight.

Hi. Thank you, Rose. If the apricot seeds cures the bulging eyes that mean it may be good for Myopia (Nearsightedness because Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long. I wrote what goes in my mind when I read this message, if any body try this please let us know.

HI..I have had bulging eyes for 13 years from Graves' Disease..now I have find the answer..bulging and swelling eyes gone because I am using apricot seeds...please try it. I just want to help anyone in the same condition as I am.

How are you feeling right now? Are you still in remission of Graves' Disease?

It might have something to do with thyroid - would not hurt to get it checked.

Please help me. I just had my thyroid removed and my eyes are so huge. It has changed my appearance and my confidence has gone down tremendously. I don't want to have surgery to push my eyes back. I can really use all the help thank u. Alexandra

What is ACV?

This is in response to Jennie from Orange Park, FL - Can you explain what the honey treatment is that you use? Basically exactly what do you do with all 3 things you list that you've been doing. Thanks!!

I have been reading this forum about Graves disease and bulging eyes two days ago, I have used the honey treatment for my mild bulging eyes and the royal honey, taking 2 tablespoon twice a day, and the honey mix with just a little bit of water to clean my eyes before going to bed, it works like wonder!! . I can tell the difference in my eyes just by being in it for two days, Thank you so much for sharing all ur experiences and the natural treatment... I am going to keep up with it until I am back to myself again. :)))

hi, my name is Sandy I live in texas. I had hyperthroidism in 2002 and was put on meds from my specialist the one that starts with M well I went up and down from hyper to hypo and finally that medication which they all know is hard on the liver shot my liver enzymes off the chart. Dr, then wanted me to go and have an MRI on my liver. That did it. I didn't have an MRI, didn't go back to see him and quit the meds. By this time I had been on the meds about 3 months and the symptoms had stopped( tremors of the hands, heart palpations but was still thin and weak muscles from the ordeal. When I finally went to the doctor in the begining I thought I was having heart trouble. I was probably was hyper for a long time prior. The day I went to the doc one of my eyes had started to bulge. Being vain this really tore me up. Doc said I just had a little edema (which I wasn't buying, but he did check my thyroid. From that day on I was afraid to go to bed as everymorning I would get up to now both eyes bugging out. This bugging all happened rather quickly, Doctors wanted radiate the thyroid, would not give me any steroids to stop the inflammation and progression of the eyes. Being discusted with the whole medical field, " I started trying to take supplements and anything I read might help. I did not have a computer at this time. I would have my blood run ever so often and the ranges were alright sometimes normal, sometimes a little off. It all seemed better than doctors and drugs (right? But what remained were the terrible frog like eyes. I went pretty to freaky in a matter of months. I put on my dark glasses and remained that way.

About two years ago (by now I have a computer) I read about an enzyme called Serrapeptase that is derived from the secretion of the silk worm ( look it up) it is an antinflammatory and taken for at least 6 months is suppusto dissolve scar tissue. Immediately I could see some improvement in the eyes(not much) but better. Now by this time I felt better and was either over, or in remission of the hyperthyoidism but the eyes were ruining my life. I was so excited, I would get up in the middle of the night when I woke up and go look in the mirror and pop another Serrapeptase I was taking 3 High potency 120,000. Units a day. These have to be taken on an empty stomach so they don't turn into a digestive enzyme and just digest food. Empty stomach only. I emproved quite a bit , then it came to a stand still. I should have continued to take them but I didn't, I started up again a few days ago. What they did is knock out the inflammatory problem but now I much needed the scar tissue behind the eye dissolved. I don't know there is any scar tissue but I heard there is. I heard about the exercises years ago but the eyes were so tight it was almost painful so I did this for awhile and quit. I started this yesterday and I think I can see the concept. The muscles of the eyes are so tight that they make the eyes protrude. Sounds right to me. Possibly when the muscles get unbound up the eye can float around better.

I just found this site and have read of the lady who corrected her eyes 70% by putting one drop of pasturized honey in each night and one drop of rose water in each eye and then washing off her eyes and then going to bed. She said it burns like crazy, but Oh well. I have not tried this but I am sure I will. What does feel good is green tea. Use good water in a large mug, microwave and put in one tea bag. Fill up a sterilized brown dropper bottle and fill it up. Let it cool , drink the cup and then put drops in the eye. ( anitoxidant) this stings a bit, but so do eye drops. This you will like. I also made up another brown dropper bottle with MSM and distilled water. One gram per ounce. Pure MSM no additives( this is suppusto make the eye more flexible and is also an anti-inflammatory (read about MSM drops) and benefits of green tea. The MSM drops don't sting hardly at all just a pinch like visine. I think in the long run the MSM is probably going to do more good than the green tea but the green tea takes the red out. This Graves disease is a nightmare. I have messed around with this 10 years. Well to make a long story, longer my eyes are not back to where they were in the beginning before Graves disease but they are pretty much undetectable to the average person. I hope my journey will help some. Bye for now, Sandy

Hi, For graves disease pls consult a acupuncture treatment. I had graves disease and I took acupuncture treatments and now it is completely cured.

There are quite a lot of people asking about the green tea method for curing eye bulging with Graves disease. I haven't come across the green tea method but I think I can guess as I have some experience that I would like to share using normal everyday teabags which are made from black tea.

(I have graves disease with multi-nodular non-toxic goitre. ) A couple of years ago, for the first time ever, I developed a stye on my eye. I went to the chemist and got some ointment which did nothing and this stye was getting huge. After maybe two weeks my whole eye was really swollen and red, I started to have a good look around on the internet for remedies as the eye drops weren't doing anything. I came across a lot of feedback about normal black teabags being good for various eye ailments so I can imagine green tea is doing the same - :

Method: Moisten the teabags by pouring on a little hot water on them whilst in a saucer. Let them cool and give them a squeeze so they are fully drenched and the dark tea is coming out of them then gently squeeze some of the excess tea off so it doesn't go everywhere and place the tea bags on the eyes and relax back. Leave on for as long as you want. You want the tea to gently go in the eye so leave enough tea liquid in the bag to do this and pat them into your eyes (your eyes are closed) and you may want to rub the teabag around a bit - don't be scared just get that tea in there:) it doesn't sting at all. I left the bags on for 30 mins the first time and saw immediate redness looked less angry. Carried on doing this all day - maybe about 6 times using same tea bags which I left on the side all day and picked them up and popped them back on when I had a spare 15 mins. Have some tissues handy as the tea drips down your face.

Why I'm telling you this is because the stye came to a head, popped and disappeared in two days and this thing was huge and it was on the rise before the teabags:) So when I had done this for a couple of days, my eyes felt loads better all round - which got me thinking. Normally my eyes are a little bulgy from the graves. They are normally very dry and sandy. Feeling better from the stye situation and feeling like my eyes felt a lot better compared to normal, I carried on every day doing the same with the teabags thinking it may help my graves eye problem. After maybe 2 weeks, my eyes were completely normal. No sandy, gritty feeling, no swollen bags or bulgy, no staring look, free movement of the eyeballs and just felt very good and normal. Amongst this teabag treatment, I did two eye bath washes by bathing my eyes with an eye bath using a solution of mineral water and a little splash of ACV as I had also read somewhere that this helped with eye ailments. I would definately reccommend the combination of the teabags and ACV in an eye bath. The measurements for the ACV wash were a guess when I tried it out so I don't know what to say - maybe one part ACV to ten parts water but I don't think it matter so long as there is some ACV in there. It stings a fair bit so you need it weak but it makes your eyes crystal clear and I really felt like it did them a lot of good. I have never had problems since with my bulgy eyes and if I feel like they are even a little dry, I place my used teabag on my eyes after making a cup of tea:) Or, I may bathe them in the ACV and water for maybe a minute or as long as I can stand it for just to make sure the eye problem doesn't come back but I maybe only do this once in every six months. Make sure it's weak though the ACV - Very important and your eyes will be bloodshot after for a little while but when they clear they look and feel great! Hope this helps and thank you for everyone's contributions. Love.

I have diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in 2004, I tried PTU first but it didn't work then I had Radioactive iodine treatment in 2005. I didn't need any medication after the RAI treatment until 2007, my eyes have started to bulge and the doctor told me that the RAI treatment failed to block the production of thyroid hormone and suggested me to take another RAI treatment, so I had it again. From 2007 to present, I am taking Levothyroxine tablet, the doctor keeps increasing and decreasing the dosage of Levothyroxine because my blood tests keep failing to meet the normal range. As of today, my eyes are still protruding. Can someone provide me any good suggestions that I could try to cure my bulging eyes. I sincerely appreciate your help. Thank you. My email address is kitmintam(at)gmail.com

Can someone please let me know what the green tea treatment is? I have hyperthyroidism with graves disease... My left eye is bulging and I hate it. I dont see my own face in the mirror anymore coz I know I look different. please email me at nitalini_s(at)yahoo.com. Thank you so so much.

WARNING!

@ Jen Selenium must be 400mcg micrograms!!! 400mg milligrams will kill you!!!

Do you have an update about using the selenium?

Hi Everyone, First, I want to thank everyone for sharing real advice and help that most of the doctors and medical professionals can't give.

I have been diagnosed with Graves Disease 7 months ago. When I was diagnosed it was medium to severe. Of course they tried to put me on the medication, and send me to the radioactive treatment. I refused both. I can't see that any of those two options would help me to 'cure' that disease. I think that if any, they bring something else, not good, in addition to what you already have. So I started researching the internet for natural help.

After 2 months the bulging eye symptom associated w/ Graves started. I had already taken selenium (from 1st day of diagnosis, max safe dosage) and bugleweed, as well as some other herbal remedies. When the eyes started bulging, I knew I had to do more. I researched auto immune disease more than Graves, started on Aloe Vera and fresh Grapefuit juice, as well as Omega 3 (Dr. Murphy's - correct ratio), and Flaxoil. The Omega 3, taken with every meal did it.

My eyes were back to normal (they were NOT far out) within 1 week. I did the ALCAT test and a nutrient test, and the results were Selenium deficiency, even after I had taken the max dose since 6 months. So Selenium definitely is key, as well as anti-inflammatory nutrition. I am about to have another lab test done in 3-4 weeks, and we shall see. My nutrients test brought back excellent Vit C, D, A, K, Calcium, etc. levels, due to the fact that I really eat what's beneficial vs. what's good. Not always easy, but definitely the way to go if your body is battling something. I was however missing gluthatione and folic acid, which I'm taking now too.

As I have liver problems my dr recommends that I find a more natural sleep remedy, which I'm really not dissapointed about, I like to keep as many toxins out of my body as possible. Has anyone here tried this and knows of any natural sleep aids?

Hi There, What ever you do, think very seriously about drinking the radioactive iodine offered by an endo. I had graves disease over 12 years ago. I took carbimazole for about 8 years, and all my endo wanted was for me to drink that stuff! I refused and am so glad I did, because today I am drug free and have a normal fuctioning thyroid. I would of been dead if I had taken the radioactive iodine, and I would of been on an artificial thyroxine. I tried lots of things and I couldn't tell you any one thing did it. But just eat a really good diet, don't smoke, don't drink too much, and try all the herbs that support a thyroid, vitamins and mineral, fish oil etc. Listen to your body it will tell you what it needs. It's a wonder I don't rattle when I walk with the amount of herbs I put down my throat :-) Good Luck.

Hi Catherine... I would consider using and supplementing higher dose Lugol's Iodine to cure Grave's disease. Lugol's Iodine was used very successfully by medical doctors up to WW2 in curing both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid problems. Here is an extract which first describes -- in 1863 -- the inadvertent but successful use of LI to cure Grave's disease by a French doctor:

Iodine was used in the treatment of toxic goiter as early as 1840 by Von Basedow and in 1854 by Stokes. In 1863, Trousseau inadvertently used tincture of iodine successfully in a patient with exophthalmic goiter. "In the course of October, 1863, I was consulted by a young married lady, who habitually resides in Paris. She was suffering from subacute exophthalmic goiter... I still found her heart beat at the rate of 140 to 150 times in the minute... I wished to administer at the same time tincture of digitalis, but preoccupied with the idea that there would be some danger in giving iodin, I wrote iodin instead of digitalis, so that the patient took from 15 to 20 drops of tincture of iodin a day for a fortnight. (For the reader's information, "tincture of iodin" is a 10% solution of iodine in 95% ethanol. The daily amount ingested was 75-100 mg). When she then came back to me her pulse was only 90. I found out my mistake, and I substituted tincture of digitalis for that of iodin, but, after another fortnight, the pulse had again gone up to 150, so that I at once returned to the iodin. " Trousseau had the distinction of performing the first double-blind study of iodine in a cohort of one patient with Graves' disease. He also achieved remission of Graves' disease with prolonged administration of potassium iodide

In the above please also note that a strong tincture of iodine was used which is not advised or recommended. Also note that recovery from Grave's disease can also be achieved using either higher dose Lugol's Iodine or SSKI(drops of Saturated Solution of Potassium Iodide). In my opinion, Lugol's Iodine is the best one to use because it is more balanced and has more widespread beneficial effects on the body.

Source: The Safe and Effective Implementation of Orthoiodosupplementation In Medical Practice

And here is why many people are so unreasonably scared of supplementing higher dose Lugol's iodine today:

http://www.optimox.com/pics/Iodine/IOD-04/IOD_04.html

Antioxidants are also extremely useful for helping to cure thyroid problems. The anti-oxidants glutathione and glutathione peroxidase particularly have relevance in both thyroid and liver cell health because they reduce or help to prevent free radical cell damage. Selenium is the central metal atom for both these anti-oxidants. That's why Selenium should always be supplemented together with Lugol's Iodine because thyroid problems might also involve a selenium deficiency in the diet as well.

The full Iodine Protocol is given here.

Also be aware that if you use this protocol, then you should expect other effects and symptoms, such as detox and die-off effects, which might also exacerbate your thyroid symptoms for a while. So start low and increase iodine dosages slowly to the full dose.

Here is something interesting I found: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10844053

I have not tried it, but I'm willing to give it a try. I was diagnosed with Graves' Disease three years ago and suffered with symptoms for about a year prior to diagnosis. Not fun to feel like a schizophrenic when you have a toddler and kindergartener to take care of. My eyes began to bulge three years ago, but seemed to respond well to the PTU I was put on. I had a very stressful couple of months a year ago and the aftermath of that time is that my right eye has bulged out once again where my left eyelid is "normal. " However, my bulged eye isn't so bad. It actually makes my "normal" eyelid look lazy. Go figure.

Anyway, I am tired of avoiding taking pictures with my family because I feel like a monster. If I do take pictures, I squint so that at least the right one doesn't look so enlarged. Last week was the first week in three years, after reading and reading on the subject that I have decided to change my health and lifestyle. Slowly, and day-by-day I am making changes that I hope will stick and help rid me of this autoimmune disorder. The next big step is purchasing a bugleweed supplement and the niacinamide. I know my endocrinologist would not approve of this and has asked me, every three months, if I would like to keep my thyroid and my answer continues to be "yes. " I have given up having anymore children over the last three years, although my husband and I wanted one or two more, because I'm still on the PTU. I want to be off the meds for good.

I will continue to check back to this post giving comments and feedback as I can, and I'm hoping and praying that these supplements can reduce the swelling behind my eye. I won't know about my levels, although, until I get back to the Endo in June. I concur with the person who blessed us all in dealing with this disorder, especially those who have symptoms and have yet to be diagnosed, and even more so, the family and friends who have to deal with the erratic behavior.

Hi just wanted to say thanks the exercises are a big help. I haven't had alot of problems with my eyes although, mainly dryness, but have noticed last month my eyes are feeling alot sorer. I do have graves and I am on my third re-occurance after going into remission twice before. (First remission lasted about 4 years second remission 3 years and I am coming to the end of this cycle after being on Neomercazole each and everytime. I am down to 1/2 capsule now for another 3 months and then hopefully will be ok again). I started these exercises two days ago when I get into bed I put eye drops in and do them as you suggested and my eyes are feeling ALOT better. They were uncomfortable while doing the exercises but a small price to pay. Thanks for the tip and thankyou to all who have written here as I now have a few natural options to try. My dr has also suggested each and everytime I get hyperthryroidism that I get my thyroid cut. I am 47 and I have refused each time as the medication seems to work and I am getting a few years 'normality'. Although it would be nice to know what sets it off to begin with. I was interested in reading the Gluten problem here and will definately keep this in mind and look into further. Thanks again.

Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)

Our son was recently diagnosed with Graves Disease. He also has bulging eyes, already. After much research, and starting the "Graves Disease Parents" Facebook group, through other parents, and other GD groups, I have learned that 200 mcg of Selenium, per day, is highly beneficial to reduce, and even eliminate, the classic bulging eyes that GD patients have. We have just begun using Selenium. And, I am confident, and anxious, to see the results, based on other GD patient's positive results.

I was diagnosed 4 years ago with graves, put on Methozine, broke out in a rash, was put on PTU. Been taking it ever since, but don't like to take any kind of drugs. My symptoms have disappeared and I am down to 100 mg a day. It seems as tho my eyes are not bulging but eye lids are some puffy. I wanted to know if taking the Bugleweed would reduse the puffiness and if I should continue taking the PTU if I start on the bugleweed.

Thanks!

Thanks for this eye protrusion tip... I'm trying it now. Was diagnosed Nov. 2010... And been on tapazole since.... It helped with the jitteryness and bad moods... But eyes started acting up since end of oct. , 2011.... A few months now... Not bad but one eye is protruding slightly... I will try this exercise out... Did you find out anything else about exercising the eye muscles this way or the actual method? Thanks, Faith. P.S. I'm going to make an appt. with a naturopath right away.... I'm about 4 months away from my doctor wanting to do radiation therapy and not about to give up yet!

Hi I was diagnosed with Graves Hyperthyroidsim in May this year. I was on neomercazole which was reduced too quickly and I had a return of all the symptoms, atrial fib, tremors, etc. I am back on the meds now and settling down (also on half inderal 80mg) My doc also trying to get me to have radio active, which I refuse point blank. I am taking all the supplements listed. My eyes were really sore, scratch, dry and swollen on top lid. I have been taking selenium supplement, I was told to eat brazil nuts which I have been doing for about a month now and now realise that is probably the reason my eyes are feeling so much better. A question though, I see you talk about Apple Cider Vinegar, what does that help with Graves and how much and how do you take it? Thank you for such an informative group. Trish.

Brazil Nuts for Graves Eye Symptoms!

Try it...! A recent study done in Italy, (May 2011) showed that selenium helps decrease graves eye symptoms.

After reading the study, I ate 2 brazil nuts which have selenium content. My eyes felt much better, not as scratchy or sore! I have been doing this for a week now and am so glad I don't have pain in my eyes anymore. I plan to increase the brazil nuts from 2 to 3 in a week or so, to see if any swelling goes down. The study used 2 daily doses of 100 ug/mcg of selenium daily. I estimated 2 brazil nuts equals about 100 mcg/ug. Therefore 2 brazil nuts taken in a.m. And 2 in p.m. Should roughly equal 200 per day of selenium. Word of caution though. Selenium can be dangerous if taken at high doses, which I think is more than 400 ug/mcg per day.

So start slowly and see if your eyes feel better with just 2 per day. Then increase to 3.

Good luck and let us know if you feel any difference.

Hello Vanessa, I don't personally know any Naturopaths in Atlanta but I did a search and found one that looks like they might be able to point you in the right direction. Keep in mind that they are still doctors but they usually think much deeper than your average regular doctors. If you are not comfortable with one then you can choose another. They work for you not the other way around. Her name is Dr. Ellen Levy and her number is 404-256-2244. I looked at the services she has available and I would definately ask about the Nutritional Counseling (Based on Hair analysis) and the IgG blood allergy testing. These tests will give you a really good idea what you are deficient in and what is making you immune system go crazy. Ask about a thymus gland support to help get your immune system working properly. When you go to see her make sure you know what she is giving and why. Sometimes Naturopaths like to give wierd concoctions that have a mixture of ingredients. Which is fine as long as you know why and what you should expect them to do for you. Her website is http://www.drellenlevy.com/. Another great website is http://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/ this doctor has graves disease and has some really good posts about managing different things. He also does online and over the phone consultations if you want to spend the money. I have read most of his articles and he seems very knowledgeable and capable of helping you. I wish you the best and feel free to contact me with more questions if you want. midge811(at)msn.com.

Hi Jenn: My name is Vanessa and I live in Atlanta. I have had graves disease for some time and was seeking a Naturopath. Do you have his or her information? I would be so grateful. Thanks

Thank you Jen for your reply. Will try to find someone here.

Good health and God bless you. Violeta

I don't know if this will help but I thought it might clarify things a little:)

*copper (hypers are usually deficient) 2 mg per day

*selenium (hypers and hypos are usually deficient) 400 mg per day

*magnesium (helps heart palps) 300 to 500 mg per day

*potassium (helps heart thumping) Try to eat your potassium Banana 400 mg, coconut water 600 too 1000 mg, Potato 600 mg, Apricot 1300 mg, Black Strap Molasses 700 mg. You need 3000 to 6000 mg per day.

calcium (muscle and bone weakness) 1000 mg per day

D3 (I was difficient as most people are) 2000 mg per day

iron ( anemia and to counter the copper intake) 8 mg per day

valarian (sleeplessness and stress) I take 1 to 5 capsules per night.

chromium and green tea ( stress and muscle weakness) 25 mcg

Relora (adrenal fatigue that was due to stress) I take 1 pill twice a day (morning and night)

Hello Violeta, I would start by searching online for a natural endocrinologist in the United Kingdom. You can also get online help. I would also search for Naturopaths in your area. They are getting more common in the US so I am sure they are where you live as well. People are realizing that they don't want to put those terrible drugs into thier bodies and would rather go the natural route. I have no doubt you are on the right track. Please feel free to ask me any more questions. Good luck Jen!

Hi Jen, your post gives me so much hope and confirms my suspicion that the gluten intolerance could be the culprit for antibodies attacking the thyroid. I haven't been yet diagnosed, I am going to have further checks in the next few weeks but I know that the thyroid is being attacked by antibodies and it started to become overactive. I have been suffering from gluten intolerance for about 6 years, it was a long journey of discovery and understanding what the problem was. The test for gluten intolerance came negative (which is frequently the case). 2 years ago I went on a strict diet for intestinal candida and I can't tell you how much my health improved. I realised straight away that gluten was very bad for me, after staying gluten free, when you come back to gluten based food, you have no doubts how much that affects you. Also I had palpitations and sleepless nights which I couldn't relate to my gluten intolerance condition. Anyway I went to see an endocrinologist, to check my thyroid (2 years ago) and discovered that the thyroid was attacked by antibodies, but the thyroid was functioning in normal limits. He didn't prescribe anything but said to come back in a few months to check it again. For 2 years I nearly forgot about my thyroid. I treated my intestinal candida and tried to stay pretty much gluten free. I didn't have sleepless nights anymore but occasional heart racings which would go away in few days. But few months ago, I started again to eat lots of sweets (I have cravings), pastries, no more gluten free diet. My heart started to race again like crazy for 2 weeks continuously (pulse around 100) and candida symptoms came back. I went to GP and asked for a thyroid check and it came now that my thyroid started to be overactive. I am going to see a specialist soon for tests, but I am not going to start to kill my thyroid with pills.

In the last 2 years I learned how much damage gluten can do to one's health: bloating, constipation, migraines, depression, eczema, lack of energy, turning down your immune system etc but I didn't have a clue that it can turn your antibodies to attack your own body... As you very well said, the thyroid is the victim, not the culprit.

I am more than thrilled to find your post confirming what I just started to realise by myself: that there is a direct relation between gluten intolerance and thyroid problems and heart racing. It makes so much sense.

I am going to follow what you did: go back on a gluten free diet, take supplements and I want to see a naturopath but it is not easy to find the right one. Can you please tell me who to contact to help me? I don't know how much of these supplements to take and how. Please help. Thank you so much. Violeta

To Thankful, I went on the Renew Life website and looked up the Metal Cleanse. It says if you have hyperthyroidism you should NOT use this product. How did this work for you? Do you think it is harmful to those who have Grave's Disease?

So sorry I also should mention that the naturopath tested me for food intolerances and we found there were some big ones. It seams that Gluten intolerance is a huge one for Graves as well as most auto immune diseases. It nearly killed me to stop gluten but now after 1 year of not eating it I only miss it about once a month;) Once I make it through that week of craving it I am fine. The pain I get when I eat it makes me instantly sorry I did. Migraines, joint pain, as well as gastrointestinal issues. Just more of my (long) story:)

I completely know where your coming from. I to cannot afford the naturopathic remedies that end up costing hundreds of dollars per month on top of the dr visits which insurance doesn't even pay for if you are lucky enough to have it in the first place. I believe it is a combination of treatments that helped me both from the naturopath as well as from the research and self help stuff I have implemented myself. The foundation of what started my healing is a supplement called thymex which can be purchased on amazon. It is desicated thymus and I purchase it every few months for $16. 00. It supports your immune system. Which for whatever reason is attacking our thyroids with this disease. It sounds contradictory to support your immune system when it is attacking your thyroid but it works. I have treated my 15 yr old daughter using it as well and she is much better and on the road to remission as well. The other minerals and supplements I am using are:

Moodiness (hormonal and usually ovarian related) 1. Wild yam cream (progesterone) with a zinc supplement and/or 2. DHEA with a copper supplement. I can tell which one is needed and I very it depending on my period and mood. If it is heavy and long I am progesterone deficient so I take wild yam and zinc. If it is short and light I am estrogen deficient so I take the second two. I will continue taking them until I begin to feel normal again. It usually takes about 1 week or so to notice a difference.

Heart palpitations: Magnesium (250 to 500)and potassium every day (coconut water has 600 to 1000 mg of potassium in each can) I also will take a little extra potassium when I am swollen as it is an imbalance of sodium to potassium that causes this. The magnesium I take a little extra if I am unusually tense and need to relax a bit. It helps me sleep too.

Selenium: to help the conversion of thyroid hormones so there is not to much t4 or t3 and things can run smoothly. Selenium is one of the big ones I think has healed me. You should take a little more than the recemended dosage as we are usually deficient and it is so important for our thyroids. Usual dosage is about 200mg I usually take at least 400 mg per day.

iodine: 7 mg per day. (contrary to most doctors beliefs most hypers are actually iodine deficient and this is what caused them to go hyper in the first place) Flouride, bromine, and chlorine displaces iodine and does not do the job that iodine does so our thyroids malfunction.

I blend of GABA, theonine, relora, and a few other calming ingredients to help me sleep and deal with life. It really helps me to keep calm in situations where I would otherwise freak out. (I have five kids:)

Manganese: Is very beneficial to hypers and hypos. I can't remember exactly why. I will get back to you on that.

For my liver: Which has been through alot over the years as well. I very these herbs and supplements to keep my liver flowing( when one runs out I go to the next one). Dandalion root, licorice, milk thistle.

desicated Thymus gland: I only take a months worth about every 3 to six months. If I feel like my moods are getting worse and my heart palpitations are coming more often I know that my thyroid is probably getting more active so I order a bottle. Take it three times a day for 30 days and so far all of my blood work has been great for over a year now.

I also take A, E, C, Calcium, D3, I'm sure I'm forgetting something. Mostly it is a guessing game unfortunately. I have researched this issue for many years on the internet and at school. My family has suffered both hashimoto's and graves for a long time. I will never give up on finding things that will help. I am currently using the process of painting my goiter with iodine and watching it shrink slowly but very noticably. I get all of these supplements from the health food stores or amazon. I believe that every condition is caused by an imbalance in the minerals/ vitamins which causes an imbalance in hormones and pH and many other issues. We can't supplement with one thing without causing another to go crazy. For example Zinc and Copper are antagonists. Zinc and Progesterone are..... Buddies. Copper and estrogen are... Buddies. One goes deficient the buddy does as well. The antagonists party it up and cause many other problems in thier wake. It is a constant balancing act which gets tiresome but I feel so great and don't ever want to go back to taking those drugs that I could feel were wrong for me. Another helpful tip is that if you supplement with potassium for edema then make sure to take magnesium as well. Magnesium helps potassium get into the cells where it is needed. Iodine and Flouride are antagonists. Iodine is the weaker of the two so if you are drinking flouridated water etc... Iodine will loose the battle unless you are supplementing with iodine at a higher level than flouride. I know this is way to much info to take in but I have a hard time deciding which knowledge to leave out and which to keep in. Sorry. I hope this helps. Let me know if I can help with anything else. The mood thing is so hard. I was in the same boat. I thought I was going to cause my hubby to divorce me. My poor kids too. Chin up though. It is possible to feel better with a little knowledge. Best of luck, Jen!

Inquiry for Jen from Bozeman, Mt

I was diagnosed with graves 10 years ago and have been on methemizole ever since. I am not doing well, I am extremely irritable and sad. I have tried bugleweed, lemon balm, and many other suggestions I have found. I am curious what your doctor/s did with you that helped you go into remission. I am in Arizona and haven't found the right doctor for me yet. Money makes it hard to work with the naturopaths because it seems like they are prescribing expensive supplements that they are not sure will work, but their idea is to test things with me and go from there. I just don't have the funding to be spending several hundred dollars every month to test products that may or may not help me. I am scared that my liver is being effected by the medicine and my relationships certainly are because I am not in a rational mental space.
Any details of your success story would be so appreciated.
thanks, tina

Oh no.... It breaks my heart to read your post. Don't be scared it is not the end of the world I promise. You must be having eye symtoms to be so upset after googling it. I too did the same thing as you and googled the day I found out I had it. That was three years ago. I am completely better now. You can go the natural route and see a Naturopath or you can get help from an Endocrinologist. I posted on the 11th of August some of the treatments I have done that have put me in complete remission. Remember that you can change doctors if you think they are not trying hard enough to help you out. Google some more. Sometimes doctors don't know whats best for you. In fact most of the time they don't. They only know a certain amount of things about any one disease or illness (since there are billions of them) everything else they look up in a very large book:) If they are that commited to your health. Otherwise they will put you in one catagory (Graves Disease) and treat you with the same drugs and recamendations they did for the last person with Graves. I would love to help you in any way possible if you have any questions please ask. I have children and actually one of mine was diagnosed with graves disease as well. It is only scary when you don't have the knowledge to feel confident you are in control of your health. Make sure the doctor tests all of the hormones involved with graves every time. TSH, free T3, and free T4. Also make sure (since you are on Tapazol) that you are getting a liver function test every 3 months. Unfortunatly I will not be of help if you are having eye symptoms as I haven't had any yet (knock on wood). Good health to you and I hope you are doing better soon.

I apoligize for forgetting to say that I was diagnosed with Graves Disease. My daughter was as well. Neither one of us have had any eye issues. But both of us have had very large goiters that are slowly shrinking back to normal.

Hi I just want to say DONT do RAI or surgery. Why would you remove an organ in your body that is the victim of your immune system. Your thyroid is not the problem it is actually your immune system. I was diagnosed 3 years ago but I know that I have had it since I was a child. Looking back I can remember episodes of hypo and hyper at different points of my life. I have been to an endo who perscribed methimazole. I stopped that about 6 months in when my hair was coming out in clumps and my lab tests were not getting better. Of course my endo wanted me to get rid of my thyroid because Dr's don't like diseases that they don't have control over. If you get rid of your thyroid they can give you fake thyroid for the rest of your life. Not to mention hypo is less fatal in comparison to hyper.

I went to two naturopaths. The first helped a little but the second was the one who helped most. His idea of treating the whole body not just the thyroid really made sense. He started by addressing my immune system which for some reason was attacking my thyroid. He placed me on desicated thymus gland (thymus is part of your immune system that dr's believe is useless to us after childhood). He also tested me for food allergies. I had so many intolerances that I was absolutely shocked. Gluten, dairy, peanuts, almonds. Things that I had been eating in huge amounts. He explained that it might be possible for me to stop all of the intolerant food for six months and I might be able to begin eating some of them again. Gluten it seems was the main culprit. I stoped all for six months and the only one I cannot tolerate now is Gluten. My naturopath explained to me that Gluten is like a bat and when I ingest it, I am hitting my immune system with it as if it were a bee hive. My immune system freaks out and begins attacking my thyroid, adrenals, skin etc.... It made sense to me that. I can have one crouton and I will have a dabilitating migraine and trembles etc. Anyhow I started taking many suppliments as well.

*copper (hypers are usually deficient)

*selenium (hypers and hypos are usually deficient)

*magnesium (helps heart palps)

*potassium (helps heart thumping)

calcium (muscle and bone weakness)

D3 (I was difficient as most people are)

iron ( anemia and to counter the copper intake)

valarian (sleeplessness and stress)

chromium and green tea ( stress and muscle weakness)

Relora (adrenal fatigue that was due to stress)

I know it's alot but they all have a purpose....

Spanish Black Radish (just started recently and is supposed to help sooth graves and release bile from liver)

B Compex (for everything:)

Vit A, C, E, as well.

I am completely in remission now and have been for over a year. I believe that the thymus support was the start of my healing and the * suppliments are the most important ones for maintaining my health at this point.

My 15 year old daughter was diagnosed about 10 months ago. I have skipped the endo and gone for the same treatment that helped me. So far she is getting better and on the rode to remission.

Please don't have surgery to remove an organ that is so important to your health and well being. Afterall it isn't the thyroids fault right. Focus your treatment on the real problem. Your immune system and why it is attacking you. God bless and good health to you all.

Paloma from Ny, please keep me posted on your results. I am on methhimazole also. It was suggested to me as well to take radiocative iodine. Where can get the bugleweed from? What form are you taking (tea or drops) and how much?

Hello, I just been told I have graves disease. I youtubed it and today I been in such tears. I am scared and I am a single mother. Its has efected my whole life and its been down hill since Oct. I now have double vission that makes it so hard to drive at night. Now that is making it hard to work and drive, I am more scared for my child. I am on a beta blocker Toprol XL 100 Mg and the Tapazole 2x a day at 5mgs. My eyes are hurting and I am so scared. Looking for anything that can or anyone who can help me start a recovering plan for myself.

Any information on where to start and more about what is going on and about to happen to me. Are you guys still able to hold a job? If not how are you living? Any before and after picture? Gosh I could use the up lifting from seeing others come through it. Because what I have seen so far has got me crying all day.

Thank You. Julie

Hi. I came across a couple of sites that talk about eye exercises for bulging eyes from Grave's disease but didn't really explain what to do. I suffererd from bulging eyes for years until 2 weeks ago when I did eye exercises. I put a couple of drops of moisture eye drops in my eyes, laid down and started moving my eyes around (while eyes closed) and looked as far right, left, up and down as I could to where I felt pressure in my eyes while doing it. I felt a tingling sensation behind my eyes. The more I moved my eyes around the more the sensation would go away. The next day my eyes started to return to normal.

It's been about 2 weeks and my eyes have returned to normal! I do the exercises while laying down just about everyday. Please let me know if this works for anyone!

Hi, I've had graves disease since I was 15. Im now 26. I have the "bugged eyes" I really need your help. Im not the same person any more and im usually sad. I feel everyone stares at me and I feel sad. How exactually did you do the green tea bags and/or drops? I really want to try this... if anyone has pic of before and after and how long it took to work, please email me at skipie00(at)yahoo.com I also heard of honey eye drops too! Just someone please help me.

I tried using the green tea as I read in this article... For 1week now, I've seen result.. My eyes are starting to return to normal (not so much like the "frog-like eyes" anymore), I used the tea as eye drops.. I want to ask also, if I want to take the apple cider vinegar, how is it possible? thank you!

Hi, I have also been diagnosed with Grave's Disease (20 yrs) and I thought I would just have to live with my "frog eyes" unless and until I decided to opt for surgery. Please tell me how the green tea can help reduce the size of my eyes and how I should take it. Thanks

how u use the green tea? u put it on ur eyes or u drink it? ps email me how could I use it, I have these grave disease and I'm sick of it my email is shalomab3(at)gmail(dot)com