Fucus vesiculosus is a type of brown seaweed that can be found in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is better known by the name bladderwrack. In some Asian cultures, seaweed such as Fucus vesiculosus is a common part of the human diet. Elsewhere, bladderwrack is touted for its medicinal uses, including for cancer, thyroid disease, diabetes and weight loss, according to Medline Plus. However, conclusive evidence demonstrating its efficacy in treating these conditions is lacking. Although many people take bladderwrack safely, side effects are possible. In many cases, the side effects are due to the metal and iodine content in the plant, not the seaweed itself.
Thyroid Function
Use of products containing Fucus vesiculosus may result in abnormal thyroid function. This is because of the high iodine content that is often found in bladderwrack, according to Medline Plus. Excessive consumption of iodine can cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Acne
Use of supplements and other products containing Fucus vesiculosus may also cause acne outbreaks. In people who already suffer from acne, a worsening of the condition may be noticeable, according to the University of California-San Diego's Complementary Medicine website. Again, this effect is caused by the potentially high iodine content in the plant.
Blood Sugar Levels
Bladderwrack can cause a decrease in blood sugar levels, according to Medline Plus. Because of this risk, people who have diabetes or hypoglycemia should not use products containing Fucus vesiculosus unless under the care of a doctor. When using these types of products, it may be necessary to more carefully monitor blood sugar levels.
Anticoagulant Properties
Chemicals in the Fucus vesiculosus plant may also function as blood thinners or anticoagulants. As a result, abnormal bleeding is a potential risk when using bladderwrack, according to Medline Plus. People who have bleeding disorders should use care when taking bladderwrack and inform their doctors.
Heavy Metals Contamination
Because Fucus vesiculosus grows in ocean waters, it has the potential to be contaminated with heavy metals that are present in the waters. Some of these metals--such as lead and arsenic--are toxic to humans and could cause serious medical conditions such as kidney damage and nerve damage, according to the University of California-San Diego. To avoid these potentially serious side effects, look for products stating the bladderwrack was harvested from clean water or that state it is free of heavy metals.
Laxative Effect
Overuse of products containing bladderwrack can have a laxative effect, according to Medline Plus. This effect is caused by the presence of alginic acid, which is a chemical also used in many laxatives.
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