Holistic Health Herbal Medicine The Health Benefits of Bugleweed Commonly Used in the Treatment of Thyroid Conditions By Sherry Christiansen Sherry Christiansen is a medical writer with a healthcare background. She has worked in the hospital setting and collaborated on Alzheimer's research. Learn about our editorial process Sherry Christiansen Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Emily Dashiell, ND on May 26, 2020 facebook linkedin Emily Dashiell, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor who has worked in group and private practice settings over the last 15 years. She is in private practice in Santa Monica, California. Learn about our Medical Review Board Emily Dashiell, ND Updated on May 28, 2020 Print Table of Contents View All Health Benefits Selection, Preparation, and Storage Possible Side Effects Facts About Bugleweed Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus) is a bitter, pungent tasting, aromatic herb, with astringent properties, commonly used to treat thyroid problems (such as Grave’s disease). It originated in Europe but is native to North America, found in areas east of the Mississippi River. The plant is a perennial flowering species, that belongs to the mint genus—the family of Lamiaceae—but lacks the minty smell of other mint varieties. Its deep purplish-blue colored flowers bloom from May to September (depending on geographic location) and the seeds ripen from July to September. Judith Haeusler / Getty Images Other common names for bugleweed include ajuga, ashangee, chanvre d'eau, green wolf's foot, gypsy weed, hoarhound, menta de lobo, Paul's betony, sweet bugle, water bugle, and water horehound. Health Benefits Historically, bugleweed was used as a part of Old Europe’s folk medicine then, later, by the early American herbalists as a remedy for cough, a sedative, and as a remedy for heart palpitations. During the 14th century, bugleweed was used in the treatment of a condition that was called consumption. Consumption was used to describe a wasting disease caused by starvation from pulmonary tuberculosis. Other common traditional uses of bugleweed include the promotion of wound healing, treating fevers and mouth ulcers, stopping bleeding, and treating symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as anxiety and rapid pulse. Regulating hormonal conditions—such as moderation of estrogen and lowering of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels—was commonly accomplished by administering bugleweed. Although there have been many older studies on bugleweed, there is not enough clinical research data to back up the claims that bugleweed is effective to treat many maladies. Related species that also go by the common name of bugleweed include Lycopus americanus, Lycopus europaeus, and Lycopus lucidus. "They are all used medicinally in similar ways for hyperthyroid-like symptoms, including heart palpitations and tachycardia (fast heart rate), chest tightness, tremor, anxiety, and insomnia," according to Restorative Medicine. Bugleweed for Thyroid Conditions Many of the medical research studies on bugleweed are aimed at evaluating its impact on thyroid function. Although many of the studies discovered favorable outcomes for the use of bugleweed to improve symptoms of thyroid disorders (such as hyperthyroidism) most of the research studies have been conducted on animals, not humans. Preliminary studies show that bugleweed may be effective in treating thyroid problems, such as Grave’s disease. Grave’s disease is a common form of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). It’s considered an autoimmune disease, characterized by goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) heart palpitations and weight loss, among other things. A 2012 cohort study on humans identified data to support improvement in mild hyperthyroidism symptoms, identified after using an extract of wolfstraw (Lycopus europaeus) in an herbal mixture used in traditional Chinese medicine. Other Conditions A 2013 animal study found that bugleweed has significant antitussive (cough reducing) properties. An animal study found that extracts from bugleweed possessed strong analgesic (painkilling) and central nervous system depressant properties, lending itself to promoting sleep and relaxation. Although many preliminary studies show that bugleweed may be useful in treating various disorders, more clinical research data are needed to back up the safe and effective use of the herb. How It Works Bugleweed and other related plant species from the Lamiaceae family contain compounds—called rosmarinic acid, lithospermic, and chlorogenic acids— which may exert an anti-thyroid effect in those with hyperthyroidism. The extract of whole Lycopus may calm excessive thyroid stimulation in Grave’s disease and other thyroid disorders. Selection, Preparation, and Storage Ideally, it’s best to buy bugleweed that has been harvested in May or early in the month of June (when the leaves are at their peak level). After harvest, bugleweed is dried for packaging. Purchase wild-harvested bugleweed, certified by a third party, to ensure the strength and quality of the product. Use caution when purchasing bugleweed (or any other herbal supplement) on the internet. Herbs and other natural supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or any other governing agency. Manufacturers are not bound to the same level of quality standards as for prescription or over-the-counter medications. Dosage Although the safe and effective dosage of bugleweed has not been well established by clinical research studies, there are some sources (such as clinical herbalists) who recommend its safe use. According to The American Academy of Restorative Medicine, Lycopus is “generally safe,” at dosages from 100 to 400 milligrams, two to three times daily. Restorative Medicine also adds that “Higher doses of two grams or more a day have been well tolerated.” For hyperthyroidism (under the supervision of a physician or other health care provider) steep one to two teaspoons of bugleweed leaves into a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink once per day for two to three weeks. The right dosage of bugleweed (or any other herbal supplement) depends on a person’s age, general health, and other factors. Always follow the directions on the product package and be sure to consult with a physician or other healthcare provider regarding the correct dose before taking the herbal supplement. Preparation An extract made from the stems, leaves, and flowers of bugleweed is used for medicinal purposes. The leaves from the plant are used to apply to the skin for wound healing. Bugleweed ointment and medicated oils are used in topical preparations. Possible Side Effects There are few known side effects of bugleweed, although any herbal supplement could result in an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may be mild to severe, and may include: Hives or weltsSwelling of the lips, face, or eyesTingling of the mouthHeadachesAbdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting Anyone who experiences allergic symptoms after taking bugleweed should immediately stop taking the herb and contact a physician or other healthcare provider. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock (a severe allergic reaction) may include: Trouble breathing or noisy breath soundsSwelling of the tongue or throatConstriction of the throatProblems talking (hoarse voice)Wheezing or coughingDizziness that does not subside or collapse A person experiencing symptoms of anaphylactic shock should seek immediate emergency medical care. Contraindications Contraindications are conditions or circumstances in which a specific treatment, medication or supplement (in this case bugleweed) should not be used. These include: Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Bugleweed may not be safe because it could disrupt the normal hormones required for a safe pregnancy or for adequate production of milk when nursing a baby. There are no clinical studies to indicate that bugleweed is safe or effective for an infant to ingest in breastmilk. Diabetes: It is thought that bugleweed may lower blood sugar, therefore those with diabetes should avoid bugleweed unless it is approved by a physician or other healthcare provider. The dosage of insulin or oral (by mouth) diabetic medication may need to be adjusted by your healthcare professional before a diabetic begins taking bugleweed. Enlarged thyroid or those with thyroid hypofunction should avoid taking bugleweed because it may lower thyroid hormone levels, subsequently worsening thyroid function. Endocrine disorders: Those with conditions such as hypopituitarism, pituitary adenoma, hypogonadism or other endocrine disorders should avoid taking bugleweed. Bugleweed should not be taken with some medications, including: Chemotherapy (bugleweed may interact with radioactive isotopes, causing severe symptoms)Sedatives (bugleweed could potentiate, or increase, the action of sedatives)Hormone supplements or products (including oral products such as estrogen, or topical products such as progesterone cream)Oral hypoglycemic medicationInsulinThyroid medicationOral contraceptives or fertility drugs Special Precautions Although bugleweed is reportedly possibly safe for most people, thyroid disease should never be self-treated. A physician or other health care provider should be notified anytime that thyroid problems are suspected. Long-term use of bugleweed and abrupt withdrawal may result in high levels of thyroid hormones (which could cause symptoms such as insomnia, heart palpitations, an increase in heart rate and more). People who are scheduled for surgery should stop taking bugleweed at least two weeks before the surgery date. This is because bugleweed may affect blood sugar levels; the herbal supplement could interfere with normal blood sugar control during and after a surgical procedure. Facts About Bugleweed Since bugleweed isn't your common herb, like oregano or sage, you may have questions about its use. Here's what to know: Bugleweed is edible. Bugleweed shoots can be eaten raw in salads or sautéed. The leaves can be steeped in tea, eaten in salads or added to casseroles. Traditionally, Native American tribes ate the roots of the bugleweed plant. When boiled, the roots are said to taste like Chinese artichokes. Bugleweed can be used on the skin. Bugleweed has a long history of use in ointments and medicated oils to help heal the skin. Children should not use bugleweed. The safe use of bugleweed has not been well established in infants or children. A Word From Verywell Bugleweed is not backed by enough randomized controlled clinical research trials (the gold standard of medical studies) and cohort studies (a specific type of observational study) on humans. If you are thinking of using bugleweed, it’s important to consult with your physician, naturopathic doctor, or another healthcare provider first, particularly if you have a medical condition, or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, or other supplements. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Niazi AK, Kalra S, Irfan A, Islam A. Thyroidology over the ages. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2011 Jul; 15(Suppl2): S121–S126. doi:10.4103/2230-8210.83347 Eiling R, Wieland V, Niestroj M. Amelioration of the symptoms of mild hyperthyroidism with a dry extract of wolfstraw. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2013; 163:95. doi:10.1007/s10354-012-0167-z Khan I, Perveen A, Agha S, Munawar S, Manzoor, Z. Evaluation of antitussive activity of Lycopus europaeus on cough reflex induced by different cough induced models in mice. International Journal of Pharma Sciences. 2013; 3. 381-385. Aziz A, Khan IA. Pharmacological evaluation of sedative and hypnotic activities of methanolic extract of Lycopus europaeus in mice. Journal of Phytopharmacology. 2013; 2(4): 8-12. Additional Reading AARM Staff. Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus). Restorative Medicine.org. RX List Staff. Bugleweed. Rxlist.com.