BLADDERWRACK

Health Benefits of Bladderwrack

Some of the most impressive health benefits of bladderwrack include its ability to treat obesity, benefit the thyroid, improve the metabolism, reduce inflammation, strengthen bones, boost circulation, protect the skin, aid vision, prevent premature aging, lower risk of cancer, and strengthen heart health.

Thyroid Improvement

Bladderwrack was the original source of iodine back in the 19th century. Iodine is an important modulator for our thyroid gland and can ensure that our hormonal and metabolic activities are under control. Therefore, as a powerful source of iodine, bladderwrack has become associated with treating many types of thyroid disorders. Primarily, bladderwrack stimulates the thyroid gland to increase hormonal output.

Weight Loss and Obesity

One of the other effects of bladderwrack is a heightened metabolism, which makes it easier to lose weight, as your body is working right along with you. Bladderwrack has been praised as a weight loss tool for generations.  When your body is working at a high level and burning off more fat, you also suppress the appetite, thereby preventing obesity and the other related health issues that come along with it.

Vision Health

The high levels of beta-carotene found in bladderwrack make it an ideal solution for someone trying to improve their vision. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that directly neutralized free radicals in the eyes and cornea. Essentially, bladderwrack can help slow down macular degeneration and prevent the development of cataracts.

Reduce Inflammation

One of the other popular uses of bladderwrack over the years has been as an anti-inflammatory substance. Whether you are suffering from gout, arthritis, hemorrhoids, or skin irritation, bladderwrack can successfully neutralize the irritation, reduce swelling, and even relieve pain. The internal and external (topical) uses of bladderwrack are both useful approaches, and are even better in conjunction, such as for sore muscles and joints.

Cancer Prevention

Fucoidan is a unique type of fiber that is found in high quantities within bladderwrack. Research has connected fucoidan with many health benefits, including lowering cholesterol, reducing blood sugar levels, and having anti-tumor effects. Essentially, one of the functions of fucoidan is to regulate a substance necessary for cell reproduction and growth. By slowing down that cell growth process, cancer proliferation can be reduced.

Digestive Health

There are a number of different types of fiber found in bladderwrack, but one particularly important one is alginic acid, which relieves constipation and adds bulk to the bowels, promoting smooth digestive process that is efficient in terms of nutrient uptake. Furthermore, this helps to relieve excess flatulence, bloating, cramping, and more serious conditions like gastric ulcers and colon cancer.

Heart Health

Bladderwrack with higher levels of hdl cholesterol (“good cholesterol”), meaning that this beneficial herb can help you prevent atherosclerosis and any other cholesterol-related affliction. This can help lower blood pressure, reduce your risk of strokes and heart attacks, and generally lessen the strain on your cardiovascular system.

Premature Aging

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 reducing age spots and blemishes and lessens the appearance of wrinkles. Antioxidants can also boost skin elasticity, keeping you looking tight and toned well into your old age.

A Final Word of Warning

If you suffer from hyperthyroidism, then you may not need an extra boost of iodine. Also, some people are allergic to iodine, so large amounts of bladderwrack could be very dangerous. Finally, if you are having surgery in the near future or suffer from a bleeding disorder, you should avoid bladderwrack, as it can make blood clotting more difficult. Check with your medical professional before adding this herbal remedy into your health regimen.