Sheep Thyroid Gland
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sheep thyroid gland is considered sweet and bland in taste, with a warm nature.
The medicinal part used is the thyroid gland itself.
How to Use Sheep Thyroid Gland
Internal Consumption: After roasting until well-cooked, slowly chew the gland and swallow the released essence. One gland is typically used per dose, or it can be incorporated into pill formulas. It's crucial to ensure proper preparation to avoid any potential health risks associated with raw animal glands. Always consult with a qualified TCM practitioner for exact dosages and preparation methods.
Preparation Method: When butchering a sheep, the thyroid gland is carefully removed from its neck. It can then be used fresh or dried for later use.
Functions and Benefits of Sheep Thyroid Gland
Functions: In TCM, its primary actions are to transform phlegm and help resolve goiter.
Indications: It is mainly used for what TCM refers to as "Qi-type goiter" (Qì Yǐng), which refers to goiter conditions often associated with stagnation of vital energy (Qi).
Traditional Formulas Featuring Sheep Thyroid Gland
Here are a couple of traditional formulas that incorporate sheep thyroid gland:
1. For treating Qi-type goiter with symptoms like chest and diaphragm fullness and obstruction, and a progressively enlarging throat and neck:
- Ingredients: Kelp (Kūnbù) 60g (washed to remove its salty flavor), Tetrapanax papyriferus pith (Tōngcǎo) 30g, Sheep Thyroid Glands (Yángyè) two pieces (roasted), Sargassum (Mǎwěi Hǎizǎo) 30g (washed to remove its salty flavor), Clam Shell (Hǎigé) 30g (ground).
- Preparation & Dosage: Grind the above five ingredients into a fine powder. Mix them with honey to form pills roughly the size of marbles. Slowly chew the pill and swallow the released juice.
- Dietary Restrictions: While taking this formula, it is advised to avoid raw vegetables, hot noodles, roasted meats, garlic, and bamboo shoots. (From "Waìtái Mìyào" quoting "Guǎngjì Fāng" — Kunbu Wan)
2. For treating Qi-type goiter located in the neck:
- Ingredients: Sheep Thyroid Gland (Yángyè) two pieces, Pig Thyroid Gland (Zhūyè) two pieces, Kelp (Kūnbù) 6g (washed and roasted), Sargassum (Hǎizǎo) 6g (washed and roasted), Kombu (Hǎidài) 6g (washed and roasted), Burdock Fruit (Niúbàngzǐ) 12g (fried).
- Preparation & Dosage: Grind the above ingredients into a fine powder. Mash the two sheep and two pig thyroid glands and thoroughly mix them with the powder to form marble-sized pills. Take one pill per dose, dissolving it slowly in the mouth and swallowing the juice. (From "Běncǎo Gāngmù" quoting "Zábìng Zhìlì")
Traditional Commentary on Sheep Thyroid Gland
The esteemed text "Bencao Gangmu" notes: "According to ancient formulas, pig and sheep thyroid glands were often utilized for treating Qi-type goiter. This approach follows the principle of treating like with like. However, it's important to understand that there are four main types of goiter recognized in TCM: Qi, Blood, Tendon, and Stone. The thyroid gland is traditionally associated with the Lung organ-system, which governs Qi in the body. Therefore, it may prove effective for Qi-type goiter, but is likely less potent for other types of goiter."
3-Second Self-Test + 30-Second Self-Help
If you notice any new lumps, swelling, or discomfort in your neck, then immediately consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. If you are exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine remedies for goiter, then ensure you seek guidance from a qualified and experienced TCM practitioner to ensure safety and efficacy. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat.
References
The efficacy and safety of Traditional Chinese Medicine for conditions like simple goiter have been subjects of modern research. PMID: 25484824
Various animal-derived components, including glands, have historical and contemporary applications in TCM. PMID: 31086119
Understanding the current management strategies for goiter is crucial for comprehensive care. PMID: 32329715
For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
