Bladderwrack for Bipolar

Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disturbance that involves manic episodes with a return to baseline. Sometimes a patient with bipolar disorder will experience depression, but it is not a requirement for the diagnosis. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders describes a manic episode as a period of elevated mood that lasts at least two weeks (or less if hospitalization occurs). The individual experiences a sense of grandiosity, extreme irritation, a decreased need for sleep and may engage in risky behaviors or become psychotic. Given the serious nature of bipolar, scientists are always exploring various treatment options.

Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack is a type of brown algae that grows along the northern Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the United States as well as in some parts of the Baltic Sea. Bladderwrack has a long history of medicinal uses. It contains alginic acid, which is a type of dietary fiber that may relieve gastrointestinal issues. The plant also has high levels of mucilage that provides slickness which soothes intestines. Iodine is found in the seaweed and has been used as a supplement for individuals with this deficiency. Given its wide range of uses, there is some literature that exists looking at the role of bladderwrack in various mental health issues.

Bladderwack and Hormones

Hormone levels play a role in mood and are often offered as an explanation as to why women suffer from depression and bipolar disorder more than men. In 2004 researchers at the University of California at Berkeley wrote a case study looking at bladderwrack as protection against estrogen-dependent disease in premenopausal women. Each woman ingested bladderwrack and was then tested for hormone levels. The particular case that the scientists focused on was published in the "Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine" and revealed that bladderwrack consumption led to lower overall circulating estrogen levels, which has an impact on estrogen-dependent disease and mood changes.

Bladderwrack, Antioxidants and Mood

Bladderwrack, like many other green leafy plants, contains antioxidants. Oxidative stress is one theory to explain cell damage that is present in many mental disorders. In 2003, researchers in India examined levels of antioxidant compounds in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They found that while patients with schizophrenia had greater deficiencies, bipolar patients had low levels of certain acids essential to cellular health. In their article, which was published in the "Journal of Psychiatry Research," the scientists suggest that diets high in antioxidants, such as found in bladderwrack, may offer protection against mood disorders.

Putting it All Together

At the time of this publication there are no studies that confirm a link between the treatment of bipolar disorder and bladderwrack. Similarly, the FDA has not approved bladderwrack for the treatment of mood disorders. However, the seaweed seems to have medicinal properties related to gastrointestinal issues, hormone levels, and cellular health and may be beneficial to overall well-being. Before adding any supplements, individuals should contact a physician.