Bladderwrack's therapeutic uses
Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed known for its potential therapeutic uses, particularly due to its high iodine content. It is often recommended as a treatment for hypothyroidism, specifically when caused by iodine deficiency, which is rare in developed countries. Additionally, bladderwrack has been utilized for its laxative properties and as an over-the-counter remedy for heartburn, thanks to a component called alginic acid that helps form a seal at the stomach's entrance. Some propose that bladderwrack may benefit skin health, support joint function, and enhance immune response, though evidence for these uses is largely anecdotal and requires further research.
While bladderwrack can offer health benefits, caution is advised due to variability in iodine levels across products, which can result in potential thyroid issues. Furthermore, it may exacerbate certain conditions, such as acne, and can impact iron absorption. Notably, bladderwrack can accumulate toxic heavy metals from seawater, posing risks, especially to vulnerable populations like pregnant women and individuals with preexisting health conditions. As with any supplement, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before use to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Bladderwrack's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Atherosclerosis, constipation, heartburn, hypothyroidism caused by iodine deficiency, immune support, skin health, joint health, weight management
Overview
Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed found on the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A common food in Japan, it is used as an additive and flavoring in various European food products. Bladderwrack is commonly found as a component of kelp tablets or powders used as nutritional supplements. It is sometimes loosely called kelp, but that term technically refers to a different seaweed.
Therapeutic Dosages
It is important not to take bladderwrack in dosages providing more than the recommended daily intake of iodine. Products that provide bladderwrack should state the amount of iodine they provide. Only products stating the amount of iodine should be used.
Therapeutic Uses
Bladderwrack contains high concentrations of iodine, so it has been recommended as a treatment for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). However, iodine will help only for hypothyroidism caused by iodine deficiency, a relatively rare condition in the developed world. If a person’s iodine levels are not low, taking extra amounts of iodine can cause the thyroid gland to become over or underactive, causing hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, respectively. Furthermore, the amount of iodine supplied by bladderwrack is unpredictable.
A component of bladderwrack called alginic acid swells upon contact with water. When taken orally, it forms a type of seal at the mouth of the stomach and, for this reason, is used in over-the-counter preparations for heartburn. The same constituent gives bladderwrack laxative properties as well. Other proposed uses of bladderwrack include treating atherosclerosis and strengthening immunity, but there is no meaningful evidence that it works for these purposes. There are several other proposed therapeutic uses for bladderwrack. The antioxidants and minerals in bladderwrack may benefit skin health by promoting collagen production. It has also been suggested as a topical solution to wound healing. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help promote joint health and alleviate symptoms related to arthritis. Still, many of these claims are based on bladderwrack’s traditional uses and only preliminary study. Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies are necessary to confirm these claims.
Safety Issues
Studies have found that bladderwrack products vary widely in iodine levels. Because of this, if a person uses bladderwrack as a regular supplement, the individual may receive an overdose of iodine and develop hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Bladderwrack and other seaweed preparations can also worsen acne and decrease iron absorption.
Finally, bladderwrack, like other sea plants, can concentrate toxic heavy metals, such as arsenic, from the surrounding seawater. One report suggests that the use of a bladderwrack product with a high heavy metal content is responsible for a case of kidney failure. Heavy metals present particular risks for pregnant or nursing women, children, individuals with kidney disease, or anyone using bladderwrack in high doses or over a long period.
Bibliography
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"Bladderwrack – Health Information Library." PeaceHealth, www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-3653002. Accessed 6 Sept. 2024.
Conz, P. A., et al. "Fucus vesiculosus: A Nephrotoxic Alga?" Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, vol. 13, 1998, pp. 526-527.
Hatanaka, Miho. "Bladderwrack: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects." Healthline, 8 July 2020, www.healthline.com/nutrition/bladderwrack-benefits#health-claims. Accessed 6 Sept. 2024.
Norman, J. A., et al. "Human Intake of Arsenic and Iodine from Seaweed-Based Food Supplements and Health Foods Available in the UK." Food Additives and Contaminants, vol. 5, 1987, pp. 103-109.