Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsDosageToxicityInteractionsSimilar SupplementsSources & What to Look For
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Dosage
Toxicity
Interactions
Similar Supplements
Sources & What to Look For
Bugleweed (Lycopus europeus), also calledajuga, is a perennial herb with many traditional uses, ranging from suppressing coughs, to improving symptoms of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
While there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to support the use of bugleweed for these conditions, the proposed benefits of bugleweed have yet to be proven in human studies. Bugleweed is not associated with any side effects, though, and is generally considered safe to use.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
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What Is Bugleweed Used For?
Bugleweed may also contain the following properties:
Scientists have examined bugleweed in several animal (e.g., rat or mouse) studies. But since the treatment effects of bugleweed in humans has not been studied, its effectiveness remains unclear. More research must be completed to understand how bugleweed works and its effectiveness.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid. A common form of hyperthyroidism isGraves' disease. This form of hyperthyroidism is evident with the presence of a growth on the thyroid gland (goiter). Other symptoms may be high body temperature, a high rate of metabolism, and an increased pulse.
Although studies have discovered favorable outcomes for using bugleweed to improve symptoms of hyperthyroidism, most of the research has been conducted on animals—not humans.
That said, one study surveyed 403 patients with mild symptomatic hyperthyroidism receiving drug therapy with the main ingredient ofLycopus europaeus,or European bugleweed. The study revealed the medicine was well tolerated and thatLycopus europaeusshowed a clinically relevant improvement in mild hyperthyroidism symptoms.
Though one study had positive results, larger and more updated clinical studies must be done to understand how bugleweed affects hyperthyroidism.
Coughs
The traditional use of bugleweed for treating coughs and upper respiratory issues remains unfounded.
There are no clinical studies in humans supporting these effects. Research proving this effect has been completed only in mice.More clinical (human) studies must be done to validate these claims.
Sleeplessness
Another traditional use for bugleweed is to help with sleeplessness. Its sedative effect is believed to be from flavonoids present in bugleweed.However, these findings are from a rat study, which is not enough evidence to support this use.
Several plants are known as “bugleweed.” For example,Lycopus europaeus(European bugleweed) is native to Eurasia and Asia.Lycopus americanus(American bugleweed) is native to North America.It’s important to note that the exact properties and uses of bugleweed may vary from one species to the next.
What Are the Side Effects of Bugleweed?
Bugleweed has no known side effects. There have been limited studies that include side effects in humans. One study did demonstrate that bugleweed was well tolerated.
Common Side Effects
Though there are no documented side effects of bugleweed, there is the risk of an allergic reaction with all herbal supplements. Signs of an allergic reaction may include:
Anyone who experiences allergic symptoms after taking bugleweed should immediately stop taking the herb and contact a physician or other healthcare provider.
Severe Side Effects
Bugleweed has no known severe side effects. Like any other herbal supplement, there is the possibility of a severe allergic reaction oranaphylactic shock.
Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may include:
A person experiencing symptoms of anaphylactic shock should call 911 and seek immediate emergency medical care.
Precautions
People taking oral contraceptives and fertility drugs should also consult with a healthcare provider before using bugleweed.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Dosage: How Much Bugleweed Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage is appropriate for your individual needs.
Thyroid:One clinical study with 62 participants observed the effects of bugleweed on thyroid labs. Participants were given a dosage of 20 milligrams daily for 30 days in this study.
Even so, a standard dosage for bugleweed is lacking. If you are considering using bugleweed for a medical reason, talk to a healthcare provider to determine the right dose for you.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Bugleweed?
There are no indications for upper dosing limits for bugleweed. This is because of the lack of clinical studies on the dosing of bugleweed in humans.
When considering using bugleweed, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider about what dose would be best for you.
Bugleweed may not be safe when breastfeeding. Bugleweed extracts have had hormonal effects on humans and animals.These effects could disrupt the normal hormones required for a safe pregnancy or adequate milk production when nursing. No clinical studies indicate that using bugleweed while breastfeeding is safe or effective for an infant.
Bugleweed may decrease thyroid hormone levels.Because of this, it is not recommended that those with hypothyroidism use bugleweed. For the same reasons, taking bugleweed with hyperthyroidism medications is not recommended.
Other supplements such asselenium,lemon balm(Melissa officinalis),and zincmay affect the symptoms of thyroid diseases. It is recommended to avoid taking these along with bugleweed.
In clinical studies, vitamin D3had effects on symptoms of thyroid disease as well, but the clinical research exploring these effects looked at people who were deficient in vitamin D.Further studies are needed to confirm this effect in people with normal or elevated vitamin D levels.
Bugleweed may have an impact on contraceptives and fertility medications. Taking bugleweed with contraceptives or fertility drugs should be avoided.
It is essential to carefully read a supplement’s nutrition facts and ingredients panel to know which ingredients are present and how much of each is included. Review the supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
Some supplements that have impacted thyroid lab results include:
Several clinical studies exist on the effects of vitamin D on hyperthyroidism. The results are inconclusive.
It would be best to consult with a healthcare professional when considering using bugleweed along with any of the supplements listed.
Sources of Bugleweed and What to Look For
Bugleweed is taken as a supplement. It is not used as a food or in food products. It is available in dried form to be steeped into a tea and also in liquid forms in tinctures and oils.
Bugleweed Supplements
Both dried and liquid forms are available over the counter (OTC, without a prescription) and online.
Can You Use Bugleweed From Your Garden Medicinally?Yes, you can use bugleweed leaves and flowers grown in your garden to make bugleweed teas and tinctures. Take care to rinse the leaves and flowers gently to remove dirt and insects, then allow them to dry completely before using them.
Can You Use Bugleweed From Your Garden Medicinally?
Yes, you can use bugleweed leaves and flowers grown in your garden to make bugleweed teas and tinctures. Take care to rinse the leaves and flowers gently to remove dirt and insects, then allow them to dry completely before using them.
Summary
If you are considering using bugleweed, consult with your healthcare provider first, particularly if you have a medical condition or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications or other supplements.
11 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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