Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack

Latin name: Fucus vesiculosus 

Health Benefits of Bladderwrack

It may have a funny name, but this member of the kelp family has been used for centuries, mainly to stimulate the thyroid gland as a treatment for obesity.  Bladderwrack is a natural seaweed that grows along the Northern coastline of the US.  Other health benefits include: 

• Relieves constipation and diarrhea.
• Minerals nourish and cleanse the skin of toxins which helps with dryness and wrinkles.
• Boosts metabolism which helps with weight loss and possibly cellulite.
• Regulates hormones.
• Due to high beta-carotene content, helps improve eyesight, and helps slow down macular degeneration and prevent cataracts.
• Aids in digestion and heartburn.
• Anti-inflammatory properties helps with rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain.
• Boosts thyroid function due to high iodine content.
• Contains a fiber called Fucoidan which has anti-tumor properties and aids in lowering cholesterol and glucose levels.  

Nutritional Benefits of Bladderwrack 

• High in iodine and beta-carotene.
• Also high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, fiber, bromine, sulfur, and iron.
• High in some B vitamins.  

How to Use Bladderwrack 

• For internal use, drink as a steeped tea, or powder in capsules.
• Used externally also (usually in skin-care products) to nourish the skin or to relieve joint pain.  

Cautions and Side Effects of Bladderwrack

• Do not use during pregnancy.
• Avoid if you have hyperthyroidism, are allergic to iodine, or have a blood clotting disorder or are on blood thinners.