Fucus vesiculosus, also known as kelp, bladderwrack, seawrack and bladder fucus, is an ocean seaweed that is used as a food and medicine in parts of the world. The entire plant can be eaten, and the whole plant is also used in medicinal preparations, according to the National Institutes of Health. Always speak with a doctor before using herbal supplements such as Fucus vesiculosus to improve your health or treat a medical condition.
Geography
Fucus vesiculosus grows mainly along the northern coasts of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans as well as in the Baltic and North seas. In some areas where it grows natively, such as Asia, bladderwrack is eaten regularly in many traditional dishes. In Asia and elsewhere around the world, it has medicinal applications as a herbal remedy.
Medicinal Uses
Asian people have traditionally used the seaweed to treat diabetes, cancer and thyroid conditions such as goiters, according to the National Institutes of Health. It is also considered an aid in weight loss and is said to have antioxidant, antibacterial and anticoagulant properties. Despite its use medicinally for centuries, no research studies on humans have definitively demonstrated its effectiveness.
Dosage
Capsules containing an extract from the plant are available, as are tablets. Topical applications are also sometimes used, especially as a weight-loss aid. The safe and proper dosage depends on the form being used. People using capsules can take between 200 and 600 mg each day, according to the National Institutes of Health. When using tablets, the dosage should be increased over time to no more than 24 each day. When taking a liquid extract directly, proper dosing is 4 to 8 mL a day. A drink can also be made by placing 16 g of bruised plant in a pint of water. The resulting beverage can be drunk in 2-oz. doses three times each day.
Warnings
People who have thyroid conditions should not use bladderwrack because the iodine content in the seaweed may make it worse. Also, because of its anticoagulant properties, people with bleeding conditions or those who will be undergoing surgical procedures or major dental work should not use it, according to the National Institutes of Health. Fucus vesiculosus is sometimes harvested from waters contaminated with heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury; prolonged exposure to these toxic metals can cause nerve and kidney damage.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of Fucus vesiculosus supplements include acne or a worsening of acne. The iodine content in the seaweed can cause stomach irritation as well as increased salivation and a brassy aftertaste in the mouth, according to the NIH. Bladderwrack may also cause a decrease in blood sugar levels. Because of this, diabetics should always discuss use of the supplement with their doctor.
Drug Interactions
Because of how Fucus vesiculosus acts in the body, do not take it along with certain prescription medications. Because it may slow the body's ability to clot blood, do not take it with anticoagulants, according to RXList.com. Additionally, do not take it with drugs to control the thyroid, because the iodine content in the seaweed may affect how these drugs work in the body.
Member Comments