Bladderwrack: Nature’s multipurpose cure
Bladderwrack is a popular seaweed that has a long history in traditional medicine. It goes by many names, including black tang, rockweed, bladder fucus, and sea oak. The plant is commonly found along the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, as well as the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This wide-fronded plant is an incredibly useful nutritional supplement. And it contains several vital chemicals like iodine, bromine, potassium, and other minerals. This vast composition makes the herb applicable to treat diverse conditions. Ranging from constipation and heartburn to iodine deficiency and thyroid ailments.
Physical properties of Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is brownish algae with the botanical name Fucus vesiculosus. It typically grows up to 90 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. It is native to Northern Russia, the Baltic Sea, Greenland, and America. The most prominent part of Bladderwrack is its wide main stem, also called the thallus. On the thallus, there are several small hard pods (nicknamed bladders). These pods allow the seaweed to stay afloat- hence the name bladderwrack. Bladderwrack is often confused for kelp which is another type of sea plant.
Uses of Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is a high natural source of iodine. And is therefore applied in the treatment of iodine-deficiency-related ailments such as goiter. Apart from iodine, Bladderwrack has two other active constituents, which are alginic acid and Fucoidan. Alginic acid is a dietary fiber known to help relieve constipation and diarrhea. This acid also contains a calcium salt called Calcium alginate. In laboratory studies conducted on calcium alginate, the salt was a helpful constituent that sped up the healing process.
The most common application of alginic acid is in the food and pharmaceutical industry. where it is commonly used as a thickener and gelling agent. The last active component in Bladderwrack is another dietary fiber called Fucoidan. Fucoidan contains many properties as shown by several lab studies on the fiber.
Fucoidan has the ability to lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels, reducing the risk of diabetes. This chemical can also prevent infection and inflammation in the body. It does this by blocking bacteria and viruses from bonding with human cells. Other general uses of Bladderwrack are; Preventing body conditions like obesity, joint pain, and even anxiety. The herb is often applied topically to skin diseases, burns, aging skin, and wounds.
Conclusion
Bladderwrack is an excellent supplement for improving the body system and increasing energy. It is available for consumption in several forms to fit different needs. And will also prove to be a valuable supplement for your nutritional routine. To get quality health supplements, including Bladderwrack, go to our online store today to place your order. Also, follow us on Instagram to learn more about how to improve your health through nature’s gifts.