Confused about phytoestrogens

[Sunshine_67]

I started taking licorice to raise my bp and cortisol, but crashed in the last few weeks. I read today that licorice can lower estrogen and is a phytoestrogen so it probably messed up my thyroid too. So what do you do then if you have several health issues that the treatments all contradict each other? I need something to help my adrenals, but the natural herbs like rhodiola and licorice seem to be bad for my hormone and thyroid problems.

[Sunshine_67]

I'm more concerned about the licorice and adaptogens affecting my severe hormone imbalance more than my thyroid. I have severely low estrogen, testosertone and progesterone, and I read licorice and adaptogens can lower estrogen. Licorice is an adaptogen not a stimulant.

[laura1967]

Hi Sunshine.  I have had terrible results with adrenal "stimulants" everytime a naturopath put me on them. I finally was put on an adrenal "adaptogen" which worked. An adaptogen is a support and strengthening instead of a stimulant. There is a major difference in the two.  Yes licorice is a phytoestrogen and can affect your levels, not sure about the thyroid though. BUT, remember that if your adrenals are off, you may have a harder time treating your thyroid.  Just some food for thought.  :)