Bladderwrack (Seaweed)

Bladderwrack is used for thyroid disorders including underactive thyroid (myxedema), over-sized thyroid gland (goiter), and iodine deficiency. It is also used for obesity, arthritis, joint pain, “hardening of the arteries” (arteriosclerosis), digestive disorders, heartburn, “blood cleansing,” constipation, bronchitis, emphysema, urinary tract disorders, and anxiety. Other uses include boosting the immune system and increasing energy.

Some people also apply bladderwrack to the skin for skin diseases, burns, aging skin, and insect bites.

Constipation

Alginic acid, one of the major constituents in bladderwrack, is a type of dietary fiber that may be used to relieve constipation.

Diarrhea

Alginic acid, a constituent in bladderwrack, is a type of dietary fiber and as a result may help relieve diarrhea.

Gastritis

Bladderwrack is high in mucilage, which may be advantageous for people with gastritis because its slippery nature soothes irritated mucus membranes of the digestive tract.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Bladderwrack is a soothing herb traditionally used to treat reflux and heartburn.

Hypothyroidism

Bladderwrack is a type of brown seaweed that contains iodine. Hypothyroidism due to insufficient iodine intake may improve with bladderwrack supplementation.

Indigestion, Heartburn, and Low Stomach Acidity

Bladderwrack is a demulcent herb, meaning it seems to work by decreasing inflammation and forming a barrier against irritants such as stomach acid.

Wound Healing

Alginic acid is one of the main constituents in bladderwrack. Calcium alginate has shown promise as an agent to speed wound healing.