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Top Herbs for Tinnitus

Medically reviewed by 
 
Top Herbs for Tinnitus

It is estimated that approximately 15% of the population, up to 25 million adults suffer from tinnitus, with varying degrees of severity. Various factors, such as exposure to loud noise, age-related hearing loss, head or neck injuries, ear infections, and certain medications, can cause tinnitus. It is a challenging condition to treat due to its subjective nature. But, treatments are available to manage symptoms, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, sound therapy, medication, and alternative medicine. Tinnitus can cause various symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping, concentrating, irritability, anxiety, and depression. In some cases, it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as hearing loss, ear infection, or head and neck injuries.

This article will explain the importance of functional lab testing to help assess and identify the root cause of tinnitus, what tinnitus is, and various treatment approaches to manage tinnitus symptoms. 

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What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sound without any external stimulus. The sound may be described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming and can be heard in one or both ears. Tinnitus can be categorized into two types: subjective and objective. Subjective tinnitus is the most common type and is only heard by the individual experiencing it. On the other hand, objective tinnitus can be heard by a healthcare professional during an examination.

A variety of factors, including noise exposure, age-related hearing loss, head or neck injuries, ear infections, and certain medications, cause tinnitus. The mechanisms underlying tinnitus are poorly understood, but it is thought to involve changes in the brain's auditory system, including the neural pathways that process sound.

There is currently no cure for tinnitus, but there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, sound therapy, and tinnitus retraining therapy are all options that have been shown to be effective in reducing the impact of tinnitus on an individual's quality of life. In some cases, medications such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants may also be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms.

One of the biggest challenges in treating tinnitus is its subjective nature, making it difficult to measure and evaluate the effectiveness of different treatments. However, tinnitus research is ongoing, and new therapies are being developed that target the underlying mechanisms of the condition.

Tinnitus Symptoms

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of an external source and can be experienced in a variety of ways. The most common symptom of tinnitus is the perception of a continuous or intermittent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in one or both ears. However, tinnitus can also present as a pulsing or thumping sensation or as a low-frequency rumble.

Tinnitus can vary in severity and duration and can be experienced differently by each individual. Some people may only experience mild symptoms that are tolerable, while others may find their symptoms debilitating and distressing. In some cases, tinnitus can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as hearing loss, ear infection, or head and neck injuries.

Other symptoms that may accompany tinnitus include difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, irritability, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and may require medical intervention.

What Causes Tinnitus?

While tinnitus is commonly associated with hearing loss, it can also be caused by a variety of other factors.

One common cause of tinnitus is exposure to loud noise. This can damage the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain. Over time, this damage can result in tinnitus. Individuals who work in noisy environments, such as construction sites or music venues, are particularly at risk.

Another cause of tinnitus is age-related hearing loss. As individuals age, their hearing can gradually decline, resulting in tinnitus. Additionally, certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and some antibiotics, can cause tinnitus as a side effect. This type of tinnitus is typically reversible once the medication is discontinued.

Other medical conditions contributing to tinnitus include ear or sinus infections, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders, Lyme disease, and Fibromyalgia. Tinnitus can also be a symptom of Ménière's disease, a disorder of the inner ear that affects balance and hearing.

In some cases, tinnitus may be caused by underlying psychological factors, such as stress or anxiety. This type of tinnitus is often treated with a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and sound therapy. In severe cases that require immediate medical attention, tinnitus may be caused by acoustic tumors or traumatic brain injuries. 

While tinnitus can be distressing, it is a manageable condition in many cases. Treatment options may include hearing aids, white noise machines, and tinnitus retraining therapy. It is important to see a healthcare professional if you are experiencing tinnitus, as they can help determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for you.

Functional Medicine Labs to Test for Root Cause of Tinnitus

In order to diagnose tinnitus, a healthcare professional will typically perform a thorough physical examination, including a hearing test and other diagnostic tests, such as a CT or MRI scan. This section will examine functional medicine labs that can help assess contributing factors to tinnitus. 

Allergy Profile

Chronic respiratory allergies can lead to chronic sinus infections, which are a possible cause of tinnitus. The Inhalent Allergen Panel will assess for 46 of the most common inhalant allergies, which can be a beneficial test if chronic allergies are suspected as the cause of tinnitus. 

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) 

The CMP test provides information about your body's chemistry and metabolism. Abnormal results can indicate health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension which are both possible causes of tinnitus.  

Full Thyroid Panel 

Since thyroid disorders can contribute to tinnitus, a full thyroid panel is recommended to assess for underlying thyroid dysfunction or disorders if this condition is suspected to be the cause of tinnitus. 

Tickborne - Lyme & Tickborne Relapsing Fever (TBRF) 

While the standard test to diagnose Lyme Disease is an Elisa test and Western blot, the Tickborne - Lyme & TBRF comprehensive functional test to detect Lyme Disease can be helpful in assessing tinnitus related to Lyme Disease symptoms.  

GI360 Microbiome

Disturbances in the gut microbiome (dysbiosis) have been shown to play a role in chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia. The GI360 test is a DNA analysis that identifies and characterizes the abundance and diversity of more than 45 targeted analytes that have been shown to contribute to dysbiosis, which can lead to fibromyalgia. This test can be beneficial in assessing tinnitus related to fibromyalgia. 

It's important to note that testing for tinnitus may vary depending on the severity and duration of the symptoms, as well as the underlying cause. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to properly diagnose and treat tinnitus. Healthcare professionals can also develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for the individual utilizing the lab tests mentioned in this section.

Supplements & Herbs for Tinnitus 

While supplements and herbs may have the potential to alleviate tinnitus symptoms, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Speaking with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or herb regimen is always recommended, as some may interact with other medications or have side effects.

One commonly studied supplement is melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle and has been found to have antioxidant properties. Some studies have suggested that melatonin at 1 mg to 3 mg per day may effectively reduce tinnitus symptoms, particularly in individuals who also have sleep disturbances due to its antioxidant qualities. 

Another supplement that has been studied for its potential to alleviate tinnitus symptoms is zinc. Zinc is an essential mineral involved in various bodily functions, including the immune system and wound healing. Some studies have found that zinc supplementation at 50 mg per day may be effective in reducing the loudness and severity of tinnitus.

Ginkgo biloba is an herb that is commonly used for its potential cognitive benefits. While research on ginkgo biloba for tinnitus has been mixed, some studies have suggested that it may be effective in reducing symptoms in individuals with mild-to-moderate tinnitus.

Magnesium is another mineral that is important for hearing health. It plays a role in regulating the flow of potassium ions in the inner ear, which helps maintain normal hearing function. A systematic review completed by the Mayo Clinic found that magnesium supplementation may be effective in alleviating tinnitus. The recommended dose of magnesium for tinnitus in this study was 532 mg per day. Magnesium can be taken as a supplement or obtained through dietary sources such as almonds, spinach, and black beans.

Other herbs should also be considered and individualized depending on the results from the above functional labs. If allergies are the culprit of your tinnitus, Butterbur is a herb that has been shown to reduce allergies. Polyphenols are powerful plant compounds that are useful for managing metabolic syndrome and associated conditions like diabetes and hypertension. For thyroid disorders, ashwagandha is an herb that can be used to balance TSH and thyroid hormone levels. Lyme disease is difficult to treat. However, if Lyme is the cause of tinnitus, Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw) and Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap) are herbs that can be quite helpful. Ginger is an excellent anti-inflammatory herb that is specifically helpful in the case of dysbiosis.

In addition to these supplements and herbs, other natural remedies such as acupuncture, hypnosis, and biofeedback have also been studied for their potential to alleviate tinnitus symptoms. While some studies have found these therapies to be effective, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness in treating tinnitus.

It's important to note that these dosages are general recommendations and may not be appropriate for everyone. Additionally, choosing high-quality supplements from reputable manufacturers is important to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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Summary

Tinnitus is a common condition that can present with a variety of symptoms, including the perception of sound in the absence of an external source, difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, irritability, anxiety, and depression. A thorough physical examination and diagnostic tests are necessary to diagnose tinnitus, and treatment options vary depending on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. While there is no cure, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. There are several supplements and herbs that have been studied for their potential to alleviate symptoms. Melatonin, zinc, and ginkgo biloba are among the most commonly studied supplements for tinnitus. However, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness and safety for treating tinnitus. Ongoing research into tinnitus holds promise for the development of more effective therapies in the future.

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement or making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.
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