Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 11/23/2008

Question
Hello,
I have a history of thyroid cancer but have been considered cured for the past 8 years - i.e. total thyroidectomy, no need for ablation b/c scan showed no residual thyroid protein, negative ( = less than .9, which is considered undetectable) thyroglobulin since then.  As is common for patients with my history, I'm kept on a dose of thyroid hormone that keeps me slightly hyperthyroid, to prevent any growth of thyroid protein, given the unlikely chance that even a tiny bit of it is in my body.

A few months ago I started taking low doses of dong quai (in "tea" form, mixed w/peony and I forget what else) for fertility purposes, and now it seems I'm more hyperthyroid than usual.  My question is, if the dong quai has had anything to do with this, would it be because of the hormonal changes it causes, or because something in it would have stimulated thyroid growth in me?  

Thank you.

Answer
Hello Tammy,
Thanks for your question.  Dong quai is not known to be a specific thyroid stimulant, or to interfere with thyroid hormone, but there is always the possibility of interactions or side effects, especially with the complexity of the endocrine system.  You might want to look at the other herbs in the tea, because these might cause side effects or interactions.  Given your history, it would be wise to consult an herbalist or naturopathic doctor before continuing herbal treatments, for individualized advice.  
In health,
Dr Conner