Both cannabinoids synthesised naturally (endocannabinoids) and those absorbed from plants like CBD (phytocannabinoids) interact with receptors located throughout our body to help our various systems and processes to maintain balance.
And it would appear that this does include thyroid function.
Scientists have discovered that there are cannabinoid receptors located on the cells on the thyroid gland, as well as within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) which is an area of the brain that sends signals to the thyroid and regulates its activities.
The presence of cannabinoid receptors on the thyroid and in regions of the brain that send signals to the thyroid suggests that CBD and other cannabinoids can influence the health and performance of the gland.
A 2002 study found evidence that CB1 receptors regulate the release of thyroid hormones tri-iodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), and that administering cannabinoids to subjects can influence their hormonal activity.
So while it remains unclear how CBD’s influence on cannabinoid receptors may impact conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, the presence of cannabinoid receptors in related areas of the body (and their apparent influence on thyroid health and function) suggests that CBD may possibly have therapeutic application for these conditions.