Bladderwrack, which is also known by its botanical name, Fucus vesiculosus, is a brown seaweed rich in iodine. It is available as a dietary supplement in powder and liquid forms. Bladderwrack is marketed for thyroid support, constipation and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Consult your doctor before taking bladderwrack powder.
Iodine
Bladderwrack powder is iodine-rich. Iodine is a trace mineral essential for growth and development. Up to 80 percent of the iodine in your body is found in your thyroid gland. Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck. Your thyroid uses iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to produce thyroid hormones that control your metabolism.
Goiter
Bladderwrack is a common treatment for goiter. When your thyroid grows larger than its normal size, it is called a goiter. According to the Mayo Clinic, iodine deficiency is the most common cause of goiter. However, in the United States, iodine has been added to table salt, which drastically reduces the risk of iodine deficiency. A goiter is generally painless, however, it can make it difficult for you to swallow and make you cough.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest. It is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease, which occurs when stomach acids leak backwards from the stomach to your esophagus. Bladderwrack contains alginic acid, which is commonly used in over-the-counter heartburn medicines. Alginic acid reacts with your saliva to form sodium alginate, which floats on top of your stomach content and forms a barrier. This barrier helps prevent your esophagus from being exposed to stomach acids.
Precautions
Prolonged bladderwrack powder may have an adverse effect on your thyroid, according to Medline Plus. Avoid bladderwrack if you have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, as it may make worsen your condition. Bladderwrack may slow blood clotting, which can increase your bleeding risk. Stop taking bladderwrack at least two weeks before surgery. Bladderwrack may interact with blood thinning and thyroid medications. Avoid bladderwrack if you are pregnant or nursing.
References
- Medline Plus: Bladderwrack; November 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Iodine; Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- Mayo Clinic: Goiter; June 2011
- University of Pennsylvania Medical Center: Bladderwrack; February 2011
- "American Family Physician"; Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Diagnosis and Management ; Mark Scott, et al.; March 1999
Member Comments