The Best Natural Remedies and Supplements for the Hypothalamus

| Modified on Sep 15, 2023

The hypothalamus gland is a small but critical part of the brain that significantly regulates many essential bodily functions, including hunger, thirst, sleep, and temperature control. Any damage or dysfunction to the hypothalamus gland can cause many issues, including hormonal imbalances, metabolic disorders, and mood disorders.

While medical treatments are available, natural remedies and supplements may help support hypothalamic function and alleviate some symptoms. In this article, we will discuss some natural remedies and supplements that have been studied for their potential to improve hypothalamic function.

Functions of the Hypothalamus Gland

The hypothalamus gland is the link between the nervous and endocrine systems. It receives input from the brain and the rest of the body and then sends signals to the pituitary gland to secrete hormones that regulate various physiological processes. Some of the key functions of the hypothalamus gland include:

1. Regulating Body Yemperature 

The hypothalamus gland helps to maintain a stable body temperature by regulating sweating, shivering, and other mechanisms.

2. Controlling Hunger and Thirst

The hypothalamus gland plays a critical role in regulating appetite and thirst by sending signals to the brain that control feelings of hunger and thirst.

3. Regulating Sleep-Wake Cycles 

The hypothalamus gland helps to control sleep-wake cycles by releasing hormones that promote wakefulness or sleep.

4. Controlling the Release of Hormones

The hypothalamus gland releases several hormones that control the secretion of hormones from the pituitary gland, which regulates the activities of other endocrine glands.

Issues with the Hypothalamus Gland

Various issues can arise with the hypothalamus gland, which can significantly affect overall health and well-being. Some of the common issues associated with this gland include:

1. Hypothalamic Dysfunction

Hypothalamic dysfunction can lead to several health issues, such as decreased sex drive, menstrual problems, and thyroid disorders.

2. Hypothalamic Injury

Trauma to the hypothalamus gland can cause a variety of symptoms, including changes in appetite, weight gain or loss, sleep disturbances, and hormonal imbalances.

Tumors 

Tumors that affect the hypothalamus gland can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, vision problems, and hormonal imbalances.

Natural Remedies for Hypothalamic Issues

Several remedies and supplements can help alleviate some of the issues associated with the hypothalamus gland. Here are some of the most effective ones:

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. Supplementing with melatonin can help alleviate sleep disturbances associated with hypothalamic dysfunction or injury.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help reduce stress and promote overall health and well-being. It has been shown to improve hypothalamic function and reduce cortisol levels in the body.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a critical role in regulating the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. Supplementing with vitamin D can help improve hypothalamic function and reduce the risk of developing autoimmune disorders.

Omega-3 fatty acids 

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain health and function. Supplementing with omega-3s can help reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with hypothalamic dysfunction or injury.

Magnesium 

Magnesium is a mineral that is important for many bodily functions, including brain function. Research has shown that magnesium supplementation may help alleviate anxiety and depression, which can be associated with hypothalamic dysfunction.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb that reduces stress and improves cognitive function. Some studies have suggested that rhodiola supplementation may help improve hypothalamic function and reduce stress levels.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that is important for immune function and hormone regulation. Some studies have suggested that zinc supplementation may improve hypothalamic function and reduce inflammation in the body.

B Vitamins 

B vitamins, including B12 and folate, are important for brain function and hormone regulation. Supplementing with B-vitamins may help support hypothalamic function and reduce symptoms associated with hypothalamic dysfunction.

Herbs for the Hypothalamus Gland

Several herbs may have potential benefits for the hypothalamus gland:

Ginkgo Biloba 

Ginkgo biloba is an herb traditionally used to improve cognitive function and memory. Some studies suggest that it may also have neuroprotective effects, which may benefit the hypothalamus gland.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa Monnieri is an adaptogenic herb that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory and cognitive function. Some studies suggest that it may also have neuroprotective effects and may help alleviate stress, which can benefit the hypothalamus gland.

Ginseng

Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to improve energy, focus, and cognitive function. Some studies suggest that it may also have neuroprotective effects and may help alleviate stress, which can benefit the hypothalamus gland.

Holy Basil 

Holy Basil is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and promote overall health and well-being. Some studies suggest that it may also have neuroprotective effects and may help improve cognitive function.

Summary

The hypothalamus gland is an essential part of the brain responsible for regulating various bodily functions, and any dysfunction or damage to it can cause a wide range of issues. While medical treatments are available, natural remedies and supplements may also help support hypothalamic function and alleviate some symptoms. Some of the natural remedies and supplements that have been studied for their potential to improve hypothalamic function include magnesium, Rhodiola rosea, zinc, B-vitamins, Ginkgo biloba, Bacopa monnieri, ginseng, and holy basil.

Continue reading for feedback from Earth Clinic readers about which remedies helped their hypothalamus gland.

Sources

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  2. Cropley, M., Banks, A. P., Boyle, J., & Robertson, J. F. (2015). The effects of Rhodiola rosea L. extract on anxiety, stress, cognition and other mood symptoms. Phytotherapy Research, 29(12), 1934-1939. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26471960/
  3. Saper, R. B., Rash, R., & Kales, S. N. (2004). Zinc: an essential micronutrient. American family physician, 79(9), 768-772. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2004/0501/p768.html
  4. van der Wurff, I. S., von Schacky, C., Berge, K., Zeegers, M. P., Kirschner, P. A., & de Groot, R. H. (2017). Association between blood omega-3 index and cognition in typically developing Dutch adolescents. Nutrients, 9(10), 1092. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5691712/
  5. Gauthier, S., Schlaefke, S., & Heun, R. (2014). Ginkgo biloba extract in dementia: a systematic review. Journal of Alzheimer's disease, 1(1), 191-205. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24643113/
  6. Stough, C., Lloyd, J., Clarke, J., Downey, L. A., Hutchison, C. W., Rodgers, T., & Nathan, P. J. (2001). The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology, 156(4), 481-484. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11498727/
  7. Reay, J. L., Kennedy, D. O., & Scholey, A. B. (2010). Effects of Panax ginseng, consumed with and without glucose, on blood glucose levels and cognitive performance during sustained ‘mentally demanding’ tasks. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 24(10), 1505-1514. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19574283/
  8. Cohen, M. M. (2014). Tulsi-Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(4), 251. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296439/
  9. Bredesen, D. E., Amos, E. C., Canick, J., Ackerley, M., Raji, C., Fiala, M., ... & Chao, M. (2016). Reversal of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. Aging, 8(6), 1250-1258. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4931830/
  10. Choudhary, D., Bhattacharyya, S., & Bose, S. (2017). Efficacy and safety of ashwagandha (
  11. Choi, J. G., Kim, J. H., Lee, H. J., Jeong, H. J., & Kim, N. J. (2012). Huperzine A enhances the level of acetylcholine precursor and neurotrophic factor, and improves memory in mice. Nutritional neuroscience, 15(6), 252-258. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22894691/
  12. Calabrese, C., Gregory, W. L., Leo, M., Kraemer, D., Bone, K., & Oken, B. (2008). Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(6), 707-713. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18611150/
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Dr. Simeons Hcg Diet Protocol

2 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  100%

Posted by Tricia (Elmont, New York, U.s.a.) on 08/04/2010 8 posts

Can we start a new subject about retraining the hypothalamus with the diet that Dr Simeon introduced in the 1970's? I believe it is called the Human c G?

Replied by Orrilia
(Cornwall, Ontario, Canada)
09/01/2010
★★★★★

Hi Tricia. That would be a great idea. I myself did the diet and am now on Phase 3. It is the best diet I have ever been on. Dr. Siemons' book is free to download on the internet to get a better understanding.

Replied by Kay
(In The Valley, Ca)
09/02/2010

Orrilia, Are you taking the shots, or are you doing the sublingual drops? I was wondering if anyone had ever tried the drops and if they are as efficient as the shots. I see that they sell the both on line. Anyone had experience with either of these?

Replied by Teresa
(Auckland, New Zealand)
09/04/2010

Yes I am using sublingual drops presently, no experience with the 'shots'. So far I have slimmed down 8 kg during the first protocol (which lasted 23 days) and another 7.8 kg during my present protocol (23 days) but am extending it to 30 days.

Replied by Joanne
(Vancouver, Wa)
09/06/2010
★★★★★

I did the HCG diet, this last year. I did it the way Dr Simeons originated it and that was with injections. I lost 37lbs on a 50 day round. I did another round to loose a total of 50lbs.. Wasn't hungry, it was safe, and I lost fat in all the right places. Easiest diet I have ever done.

Replied by Orrilia
(Cornwall, Ontario, Canada)
09/11/2010

Hi Kay. I used the homeopathic drop which cost me $45.00 and lost 30 pounds in 54 days. If using the homeopathic hcg, you do not develop immunity as you would the real hcg drops. The best diet ever. Well, not really a diet but a resetting of your hypothalamus gland. It is a lifetime commitment but well worth the small sacrifice.

Replied by Kay
(In The Valley, Ca)
09/11/2010

The drops sound much more appealing to me than the shots. Can you tell me the brand that you used? I'd like to purchase over the internet if possible. Thanks for sharing.

Replied by Suzy
(Mississauga, Ontario, Canada)
10/13/2010

Hi Orrilia from Cornwall. Where did you purchase the homeopathic drops? And what brand was it? Please and Thank-You! Suzy

Replied by Gail
(Wheelers Hill , Melbourne Australia)
10/13/2010

I started this diet last friday
8/10 to date 14/10 I have lost 2kg or about 4.4lbs, I am using the oral drops which I purchased online. Do be careful when buying online as some are asking 2/3 hundred dollars, these are homeopathic drops after all & should be nowhere near this price. I paid $20 aud for mine which included postage. I feel great, I am coping very well with the very low 500cal per day. I shall keep you informed with my weight loss, I am aiming for about 15kg altogether. Cheers

Replied by Lucky
(Melbourne, Melbourne Australia)
10/27/2010

Hi Gail from Wheelers Hill , Melbourne Australia,

Could you tell me from where you bought the hcg drops, I am also from melbourne

Replied by Gail
(Wheelers Hill, Melbourne Australia)
10/27/2010

Hi , I ordered mine from http://www.intermountain.com & they only charge $5 international postage. Cheers gail

Replied by Suzy
(Mississauga, Ontario, Canada)
10/29/2010

Hi there,
Just wanted to let you know that I started the HCG Protocol on Monday, October 25, 2010 and as of today, Friday, October 29, 2010. I have lost a total of 13 lbs. Yes, that's right. 13 lbs in 5 days!!! I'm a happy loser!!

Replied by Fred
(Toronto, Ontario Canada)
11/26/2010

Be careful the site in Mississauga isn't registered as a business anywhere, I checked. The phone number is a cell #. Although the site looks very professional, I have to wonder if it is bogus.

Replied by David M.
(Toronto)
09/15/2023

Am interested in the 30 day protocol,, does anyone know who offers it? Is it available in Ontario?


General Feedback

Posted by Denise E (Crescent City, CA) on 03/04/2023

I'm hoping to find up-to-date info on the Hypothalumus gland because I've believed for some time that the reason, at 70 years old, my continuing body temperature (or hot-flashes) have something to do with this gland.

So far I can't find any fixes (possible fixes) for it and have never taken anything conventional, pills, ERT etc. I see something on a diet by Dr. Simeon in the 70s, but I'm a type 2 and really have not looked at his suggestions.

I want to find out if there is any info on EC to prove something herbal, food, or supplement has helped. I am so tired of the issues I have and I understand I can't fix everything, but I want this post out there in case someone has new info I could put to the test.

I have always felt that a signal from my mind, or brain is causing my heat-flash, hot whatever you want to call it so I've just got this instinct telling me to keep looking at the brain.

Any feedback appreciated, Denise



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