Lamiaceae
Bugleweed
Lycopus virginicus
⚠ Use with Caution
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: North America, Europe (Lycopus europaeus)
Also known as: Virginia Bugleweed, Sweet Bugleweed, Gypsywort
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
LeafFlower
Therapeutic Uses
Hyperthyroidism (mild-moderate — blocks TSH receptor and reduces T4 conversion), Graves' disease (adjunct), palpitations associated with hyperthyroidism, anxiety with racing heart, excessive menstruation. Specific herb for overactive thyroid.
Herbal Actions
Antithyroid (TSH blocker), antihemorrhagic, sedative, cardiac tonic, astringent
Active Constituents
Lithospermic acid, rosmarinic acid, lycopene (trace), flavonoids (luteolin), iridoids, tannins
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture☕ Herbal Tea
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1–2 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 10 min, 3x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Works best for mild-moderate hyperthyroidism — not a replacement for medical treatment in severe Graves'. Monitor thyroid function. Combine with lemon balm (also antithyroid) for synergistic effect. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
⚠ Known interactions
Contraindications: Contraindicated in pregnancy and hypothyroidism. Avoid with thyroid medications (additive effect). Do not discontinue abruptly (thyroid rebound). Medical supervision required for thyroid conditions.
Side Effects: Thyroid suppression (therapeutic effect becomes adverse if overused). Abrupt discontinuation — thyroid rebound. GI upset.