Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed found on the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A common food in Japan, it is used as an additive and flavoring in various food products in Europe. Bladderwrack is commonly found as a component of Kelp tablets or powders used as nutritional supplements. It is sometimes loosely called Kelp, but that term technically refers to a different seaweed. Primary chemical constituents of this plant include mucilage, algin, mannitol, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, iodine, bromine, potassium, volatile oils, and many other minerals. The main use of Bladderwrack (and other types of seaweed) in herbal medicine is as a source of iodine, an essential nutrient for the thyroid gland. Bladderwrack has proved most useful in the treatment of underactive thyroid glands (hypothyroidism) and goiter. Through the regulation of thyroid function, there is an improvement in all the associated symptoms. Where obesity is associated with thyroid trouble, this herb may be very helpful in reducing the excess weight. It has a reputation in helping the relief of rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis, both used internally and as an external application upon inflamed joints. A chemical constituent of Bladderwrack called alginic acid swells upon contact with water; when taken orally, it forms a type of "seal" at the top of the stomach, and for this reason is used in several over-the-counter preparations for heartburn. The same constituent gives Bladderwrack laxative properties as well.
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Kelp is a rich source of natural vitamins and minerals, including essential trace minerals. The primary chemical constituents of Kelp include algin, carrageenan, iodine, potassium, bromine, mucopolysaccharides, mannitol, alginic acid, kainic acid, laminine, histamine, zeaxanthin, protein, and vitamins B-2 and C. Kelp is a nutritional source that is used to promote healthy glandular functions, focusing especially on the thyroid. Kelp is especially high in iodine, which must be present for proper glandular function. By regulating the thyroid, Kelp helps stimulate and balance the metabolism. The large amounts of iodine found in Kelp are important in the treatment of an under-active thyroid. Consequently, Kelp may contribute to weight loss if the weight gain is directly related to thyroid disorders. Containing algin, a fiber that absorbs toxins and nutrients from the digestive system, Kelp helps improve digestion, stimulate kidney function, increase circulation, and purify the blood. Kelp has also been known to treat inflamed joints and tissues caused by arthritis and rheumatism. Furthermore, Kelp enhances the immune system and eliminates the negative effects that stress may have on the body. It can help absorb and remove drugs, chemicals, heavy metals, and radioactive strontium 90 from the body. It can also help to normalize overly low blood pressure. Known topical uses for this herb include its use as a compress or oil for arthritic joints, as a bath herb for cellulite and weight loss and as a lotion for its skin-softening qualities. |
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Irish Moss is a seaweed that was used by the Irish during the famine of the 19th century. The entire plant has been used medicinally. Traditionally, use of Irish Moss was in respiratory illnesses where it was often the core of prescriptions to treat irritating coughs, bronchitis, and many other lung problems. It has been used in digestive conditions where a demulcent is called for, such as gastritis, ulceration of the stomach, and duodenum. This herb's soothing activity has also been useful for inflammations of the urinary system. It has also been used as a food in maintenance diets for diabetes patients. The primary role of this herb was in speeding recuperation from debilitating illness, especially tuberculosis and pneumonia. Herbs such as Irish Moss and other tonic nutritive remedies have much to offer in facilitating proper recovery of health. The primary chemical constituents of Irish Moss include protein, polysaccharides, iodine, bromine, mucilage, carrageenans, beta carotene, and vitamin B-1. The extract of this plant consists of sulphated, straight chain galactans. Of these, there are two different types: a gelling fraction known as k-carrageenan, and a non-gelling fraction known as l-carrageenan. They are both composed of o-galactose and 3,6-anhydrogalactose residues with a high proportion of sulphate esters, but are differentiated by the relative proportions and the number, type and position of the sulphate esters. Recent animal research has shown Irish Moss to exhibit an anti-viral property against influenza B and the mumps viruses.
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