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Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed that is used to make medicine. Bladderwrack is used for many conditions, but to date there is not enough scientific data to determine whether it is effective for any of these conditions. It is also important to note that oral ingestion of bladderwrack is not considered safe and harmless. Bladderwrack is used for thyroid disorders including hypothyroidism, an oversized thyroid (goiter) and iodine deficiency. It is also used for obesity, arthritis, joint pain, arteriosclerosis, indigestion, heartburn, constipation, bronchitis, emphysema, urinary tract disorders and excitability, as well as to "purify the blood". Other uses include improving immune function and boosting energy. Some people apply bladderwrack to the skin for skin conditions, burns, aging skin and insect bites.

How effective is bladderwrack?

Preliminary research suggests that bladderwrack in combination with lecithin and vitamins does not help with weight loss and maintaining a lower weight. There is not enough scientific data on the use of bladderwrack for thyroid problems, iodine deficiency, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, digestive problems, constipation and other conditions, or for "cleansing the blood" to be able to make a statement about the effectiveness of bladderwrack. Further scientific research is needed in this area.

How does bladderwrack work?

Bladderwrack, like many other marine plants, contains varying amounts of iodine, which is used to treat or prevent thyroid disorders. Bladderwrack products can contain varying amounts of iodine, making them an inconsistent source of iodine. Bladderwrack also contains algin, which can act as a laxative, helping to aid the passage of stool through the intestines.

Are there any safety concerns?

Bladder wrack may not be safe and harmless. It may contain high concentrations of iodine, which can cause or exacerbate thyroid problems. Long-term ingestion of iodine has been linked to the development of goiter and an increased risk of thyroid cancer. Treatment of thyroid problems should not be attempted without medical supervision. Like other marine plants, bladderwrack can contain toxic heavy metals such as arsenic, which are found in the water where the plant grows.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Bladderwrack is probably not safe or safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use it.

Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism: Bladderwrack contains significant amounts of iodine, which can exacerbate both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Infertility: Preliminary research suggests that ingesting bladderwrack may make it harder for women to get pregnant.

Iodine allergy: Bladderwrack contains significant amounts of iodine, which can cause allergies in sensitive people.

Surgeries: Bladderwrack can slow down blood clotting. There are concerns that bleeding may occur during or after operations. For this reason, you should stop taking bladderwrack at least 2 weeks before planned operations.

Are there any interactions with medication?

You should be careful when combining the following medications with bladderwrack:

Medication to treat hyperthyroidism

Bladderwrack can contain significant amounts of iodine. Iodine can affect the thyroid gland. Taking iodine in conjunction with medication to treat hyperthyroidism could reduce thyroid function too much, so bladderwrack should not be used if you are taking such medication.

These medications include methenamine mandelate (methimazole), methimazole (tapazole), potassium iodide and others.

Medications that slow down blood clotting

Bladderwrack can slow down blood clotting. Taking bladderwrack in combination with medications that can slow down blood clotting can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. Medications that slow down blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel, diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen, naproxen and others.

Are there any interactions with medicinal plants or supplements?

Bladderwrack may interact with supplements and medicinal herbs that can slow down blood clotting. Bladderwrack can slow down blood clotting and taking it in conjunction with supplements or plant extracts that can also slow down blood clotting can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. These products include angelica, cloves, danshen, fenugreek, feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, turmeric and others.

Are there any interactions with food?

There are no known interactions with food.

Recommended intake

An appropriate dosage of bladderwrack depends on several factors, including age, health status and other factors. At this time, there is not enough scientific information to provide an appropriate dosage range for bladderwrack, so follow the dosage instructions on the label or consult a doctor or pharmacist.

References

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