Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) information


Source:
Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) - is a notably brown algae or seaweed that is found on the submerged rocks on both the east and west coast of North America and in the warmer coastal regions of Europe.






Traditional uses:
Bladderwrack was the original source of iodine and it was used extensively in the early 1800's to treat goiter (a swelling of the thyroid gland secondary to a lack of iodine). In the beginning of the 1900's Europeans used Bladderwrack as a thyroid stimulant proclaiming its ability to increase metabolic rate.

Physiology:
The relationship between iodine and thyroid function is complex. Iodine is required by the body to form thyroid hormone, and iodine deficiency can lead to goiter and hypothyroidism which manifests the following symptoms: weight gain, depression, lethargy, constipation, intolerance to cold, dry skin, hair loss, excessive menstruation, etc.

P D'Adamo, M.D. has note Bladdrerwrack as being particularly beneficial for individuals with type O blood. He states, in r that "bladderwrack seems to help normalize the sluggish metabolic rate and produce weight loss." He also alludes to its utility in helping to keep thyroid function normal, and discusses the potential usefulness of this plant for preventing the adherence of certain microorganisms to the lining of the digestive tract including H. pylori (organism responsible for inducing ulcers and gastritis). D'Adamo P. Eat Right 4 Your Type. Putnam: 1997.

Clinical Studies:
Cobalamin deficiency has been attributed to a primary cause of fatigue. Clinical studies have shown that individuals who were not even deficient in the vitamin following a B12 injection reported a significant increase in energy has compared to those individuals who received a placebo injection. Ellis FR, Nasser S. A pilot study of vitamin B12 in the treatment of tiredness. Br J Nutr 1973;30:277–83.

Modern day uses:
Today, Bladderwrack is prescribed by physicians and herbal specialist for the following:

• Weight loss - helps to improve lipid balance associated with obesity specifically where obesity is associated with thyroid dysfunction.
• Hypothyroidism - the plant is rich in Iodine that stimulates the thyroid gland thus stimulating an individuals natural metabolism.
• Arthritis - provides relief for rheumatoid arthritis, the plant is taken internally and applied externally to inflamed joints.
• Anti-bacterial - helps to prevent the adhesion of harmful bacteria to the lining of the digestive tract.
• Antioxidant properties - helps to reduce the number of free radicals.
• Diuretic - the plant acts as a natural diuretic.
• Topical creams - used in lotions and topical ointments to reduce cellulite, moisturizing cream, localized anti-inflammatory.
• Anti-cancer properties - ingesting Bladderwrack in the diet as shown to reduce the incidence of breast cancer.
• Constipation - regular use of Bladderwrack improves regularity.
• Cholesterol - help lower cholesterol levels
• Bladderwrack not only is an excellent source of iodine the plant provides a plethora of essential nutrients including: carrageenan, algin, potassium, bormine, mannitol, kainid acid, alginic acid, histamine, vitamin C

Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician prior to taking any new supplements.

More specifically, individuals should not use Bladderwrack if they have a history of hyperthyroidism , cardiovascular problems, pregnant, breast feeding. Excessive dosage of Bladderwrack can result in tremor, hyperthyroidism, elevate pulse, increased blood pressure, etc. (return to homepage).