Bladderwrack – Medicine from the Sea

This unusual looking plant is also known as Sea Grapes and you can well see why!

Bladderwrack is known for its Antihypothyroid (underactive thyroid/hashimotos) properties bringing balance where it is needed, this is due to the fact that it is a powerful source of iodine. It is also found useful in treating rheumatism.

In many cultures, bladderwrack is thought to heighten metabolism, which makes it easier to lose weight. Many weight loss supplements do contain bladderwrack in combination with other herbs, because of its effect on the workings of the thyroid gland. 

Over the years Bladderwrack has been used as an anti-inflammatory.  Whether you are suffering from gout, arthritis, haemorrhoids, or skin irritation, bladderwrack may successfully neutralize the irritation, reduce swelling, and even relieve pain. The internal and external (topical) uses of bladderwrack may both be useful approaches and are even better in conjunction, such as for sore muscles and joints.

Research studies have linked bladderwrack with higher levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), which may contribute to helping you prevent atherosclerosis, lowering blood pressure, reducing your risk of strokes and heart attacks, and generally lessen the strain on your cardiovascular system.

There are many valuable minerals found in bladderwrack that can help to make the skin beautiful, but there are also powerful organic chemicals that can slow down the aging process. These antioxidants in bladderwrack keep the skin looking healthy and young, reduce age spots and blemishes, and lessen the appearance of wrinkles. Antioxidants can also boost skin elasticity, keeping your skin looking tight and toned well into your old age.

Dietary bladderwrack may help increase the duration of the menstrual cycle in premenopausal women and may also help reduce the risk of diseases related to estrogen. A preliminary clinical trial looked at the effect of the seaweed on three premenopausal women with irregular menstrual cycle patterns. They found that it helped prolong the menstrual cycle and exerted an anti-estrogenic effect on the women, which may help reduce the risk of estrogen-related complications. 

It may interfere with thyroid medication and is not to be used during pregnancy.  This is a very salty herb and is not to be used by those on a salt free diet.