In the 18^th century iodine was isolated by distilling the long ribbons, or thalli, and bladderwrack became this elements main source for more than 50 years. The herb was used extensively to treat goiter, a swelling of the thyroid related to lack of iodine.

Mucilage, iodine and other minerals mannitol, volatile oil

In Chinese herbal medicine seaweed is regarded as salty, cool, moist.

It traditionally acts as a metabolic stimulant, nutritive, thyroid tonic, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory

Tincture Traditionally taken for thyroid deficiency, as a gentle metabolic stimulant, or for rheumatic conditions.

Infusion Traditionally taken as a tincture, it can be used as part of a weight-reducing programme, especially if obesity is linked to a slow metabolism.

Tablets/capsules 3 – 6 tablets can be taken daily as a metabolic stimulant. It can help reduce obesity related to thyroid underactivity.

Infused oil Macerate 500g dried bladderwrack overnight in 500ml sunflower oil. Heat in a waterbath for two hours and strain. The oil is traditionally used externally for arthritic joint pains or rheumatism.

Like many sea creatures, bladderwrack is at risk from heavy metal pollution. Do not collect where levels of cadmium or mercury are known to be high.