Bladderwrack is another name for brown seaweed or dried seaweed, known as kelp. Its scientific name is Fucus vesiculosus. Whatever name you give it, bladderwrack offers three main components: fucoidan, iodine and alginic acid. Depending on where you get your bladderwrack, the amounts of these components may vary by the chemical balances of the water where it grows, according to eVitamins. Bladderwrack offers a variety of benefits, whether taken in powder, capsule or its natural form.
Thyroid
For centuries, bladderwrack has mainly been known for its use as a stimulant for the thyroid, a gland found in the neck that controls metabolism and growth. These days, bladderwrack is often used by those wishing to lose weight, as it's believed to help treat and reduce cellulite or fat, as well as obesity. The herb is believed to help slow an overactive thyroid gland and enhance metabolism, or the rate at which the body burns fat for energy. Bladderwrack contains components that help restore optimal balance of lipids, or fats, in the body, helping individuals to shed extra weight. Bladderwrack also offers mild diuretic benefits, helping the body shed excess water retention, thus helping to reduce weight.
Arhtritis Relief
You can also use bladderwrack to help treat symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism, according to Herb Wisdom. You can take the herb orally or rub it on sore and aching joints for pain relief caused by inflammation. Bladderwrack oil or liniment created by squeezing and processing the juice from seaweed, also known as sea-pod liniment, has been used since the mid-1800s for relief of painful joints and inflammation, according to Botanical.com.
Respiratory Issues
Bladderwrack is also a treatment for a number of respiratory issues, including asthma and coughs. Before self-medicating with Bladderwrack however, speak with your doctor about efficacy in your situation. Properties in bladderwrack offer expectorant actions, which may help clear lungs and coughs for those suffering from colds or mild lung inflammation, suggests Health Care Tips. Again, use caution when using bladderwrack for respiratory issues and speak to your doctor about its potential benefits or drawbacks for those diagnosed with asthma or chronic cough conditions.
Lower Cholesterol
Many individuals take bladderwrack supplements to help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, due to its high fiber content and ability to bind to fats that are then excreted. The herb stimulates the thyroid, increasing metabolism, which burns excess fat in the body, reducing the amount of fat stored in organs or along the inside of blood vessels.
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