3) Bladderwack Seaweed
Discovered in 1812, this seaweed was the original source of iodine, and was used extensively to treat goiter, a swelling of the thyroid gland related to insufficient iodine. In the 1860s, it was claimed that Bladderwrack, as a thyroid stimulant, could counter obesity by increasing metabolic rate, and, since then, it has been featured in numerous weight-loss remedies.
Official Latin Name: Fucus vesiculosus
Bladderwrack has proved most useful in the treatment of:
- Underactive thyroid glands and goitre. Through the regulation of thryoid function there is an improvement in all the associated symptoms.
- Where obesity is associated with thyroid trouble, this herb may be very helpful in reducing the excess weight.
- Relief of rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis, both used internally and as an external application upon inflamed joints.
Kloss, author of 'Back to Eden' describe the medicinal properties of bladderwrack thus: 'The best remedy for obesity. Good for all glandular afflictions, goiter, and scrofula. Has an excellent effect on the kidneys.'
Bladderwrack is also known by the names Black Tang, Rockweed, Bladder Fucus, Seawrack, Sea Oak, Black Tany, Cut Weed, and Rockwrack.
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 food products in Europe.
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.
Primary chemical constituents of this plant include:
- mucilage
- algin
- mannitol
- beta-carotene
- zeaxanthin
- iodine
- bromine
- potassium
- the main use in herbal medicine is as a source of iodine, an essential nutrient for the thyroid gland.
A chemical constituent of Bladderwrack called alginic acid swells upon contact with water; when taken orally, it forms a type of "seal" at the top of the stomach, and for this reason is used in several 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, although there is no scientific evidence at present that it works for these purposes.
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