medicinal plant

Wolf's Foot

[European bugle]

The only medicinal plant that specifically targets the thyroid—Lycopus europaeus inhibits thyroid peroxidase, reduces T3/T4 production, and calms an overstimulated thyroid metabolism. Indicates dampness. NOT recommended for circulatory weakness.

Interesting facts about Wolf's Foot

Wolfstrapp is a moisture indicator—it grows exclusively in areas with permanently moist soil and thus reliably indicates high groundwater levels.
Despite its name, wolf's-foot belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae)—it is related to deadnettle and mint.
As the only native medicinal plant with a direct effect on thyroid hormone production, wolf's-bane is pharmacologically unique among European wild plants.

Effects & Properties

Gallic acid + tannic acid: competitively inhibit thyroperoxidase—the enzyme that oxidizes iodide into active iodine. Less active iodine means less T3 and T4 production. Pituitary suppression: Lycopus also inhibits TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase—less TSH signaling means less stimulation of the thyroid. Peripheral T4 conversion: Gallic acid inhibits the peripheral conversion of T4 to T3 in the liver and kidneys.

Features: Thyroid-regulating, calming, hormone-regulating, circulation-stabilizing, sleep-promoting, basal metabolic rate-regulating.

Applications

Dewberry for hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is caused by autonomous nodules or autoimmune stimulation (Graves’ disease: TSH receptor autoantibodies). In both cases, T3/T4 levels exceed the body’s needs—the basal metabolic rate increases dramatically, heart rate and body temperature rise, and the nervous system becomes overstimulated. Lycopus inhibits thyroid peroxidase and thus directly reduces hormone biosynthesis: Less T3/T4 in the blood means slower cellular respiration, a lower heart rate, and less sympathetic overactivation. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism gradually subside over the course of weeks.

European betony for Graves' disease

Graves' disease: Autoantibodies against the TSH receptor (TRAK) continuously stimulate the thyroid gland. Wolfsbussel does not interfere with the autoimmune process but acts downstream: Inhibition of thyroid peroxidase slows hormone synthesis despite excessive TRAK stimulation. Palpitations, sweating, and weight loss are significantly alleviated by the lower T3/T4 levels. Useful as a complementary therapy alongside thyreostatics.

Motherwort for palpitations caused by hyperthyroidism

T3 binds to myocardial receptors, increases gene expression for beta-1-adrenergic receptors, and heightens the heart’s sensitivity to catecholamines—causing the heart to beat too fast and irregularly. Wolf's-foot lowers T3 levels: With less T3, beta-1 receptor overexpression decreases, cardiac sensitivity normalizes, and the pulse and rhythm slow down.

Lycopus europaeus for sleep disturbances caused by hyperthyroidism

An elevated basal metabolic rate and body temperature prevent the necessary nighttime cooling; an overstimulated nervous system prevents the transition into sleep. Wolf's-foot lowers hormone levels and thus the basal metabolic rate: body temperature normalizes in the evening, and the nervous system shifts into the parasympathetic rest mode. Sleep is achieved, and deep sleep phases become longer.

Instructions for Use

Take the drops 2–3 times a day. As a short course of treatment or for a longer period—depending on the severity of the hyperthyroidism.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

DO NOT use—the effect on hormone regulation is unpredictable. Always consult a therapist.

Circulatory insufficiency

NOT for hypotension – Lycopus may further lower blood pressure.

Plant Profile

Scientific name: European bugle
Plant family: Lamiaceae
Other names: Wolfstrapp
Flowering period: July through September
Origin: Europe, Asia
Toxicity: Non-toxic

Gypsywort (Lycopus europaeus): Properties, Uses & Effects

Häufige Fragen

How exactly does wolf's-foot affect the thyroid gland?

Lycopus europaeus inhibits thyroid peroxidase—the key enzyme in thyroid hormone biosynthesis—via gallic acid and rosmarinic acid. Without thyroid peroxidase, iodide cannot be oxidized into active iodine, and T3 and T4 synthesis comes to a halt. At the same time, Lycopus inhibits TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase and peripheral T4-to-T3 conversion. The result: lower T3/T4 levels and a calmed thyroid metabolism.

What is the difference between wolf's bane and conventional thyroid medications?

Conventional antithyroid drugs (thiamazole, carbimazole) inhibit thyroid peroxidase, just like wolfsbane. The difference: Thiamazole acts faster and more strongly, but carries a risk of agranulocytosis (a life-threatening drop in white blood cell count in approximately 0.5% of patients). Wolf’s-foot acts more gently and slowly, is significantly better tolerated, but is only suitable for mild to moderate hyperthyroidism or as a supplement.

Why is wolf's-foot contraindicated in cases of circulatory insufficiency?

Wolf's-foot reduces thyroid metabolism and, consequently, basal metabolic rate. In cases of pre-existing hypotension, this reduction can lead to a critical drop in blood pressure, causing dizziness, loss of consciousness, and collapse. Wolf's-foot is designed for overactive systems—in cases of underactive circulation, it can exacerbate the problem.

Can wolf's-bane replace conventional medical treatment for Graves' disease?

No – Wolf’s-foot can be used as a complementary treatment, but it does not replace conventional medical treatment. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder: Wolf’s-foot inhibits hormone production and alleviates symptoms, but it does not address the autoimmune process (TRAK antibodies). In cases of severe hyperthyroidism, conventional medical therapy is mandatory.