Natural Remedies - Healing with Medicinal Herbs

Fucus

Fucus (Fucus vesiculosus Fucaceae)


Other Names: Bladder Wrack, Black Tang, Rockweed, Bladder Fucus, Sea Oak, Cut Weed, Dyers Fucus, Red Fucus, Rock Wrack

Fucus grows on rocky shores of cold and temperate seas, recognizable by its brownish-green, fern-like leaves with numerous fluid-filled bubbles. The leaves can reach up to one meter in length.


Parts for Use

Leaves

  1. Fucus is harvested from the shores of the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean.
  2. It is dried for use in powders, capsules, tablets, suspensions, gelatins, and massage creams.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in fucus is alginic acid, whose salts (alginates) form a sticky solution. Fucus also contains polysaccharides, minerals (especially iodine), and trace elements like chromium.


Use in Treatment

Fucus suppresses appetite, making it a traditional remedy for obesity. Its iodine content supports thyroid function by aiding the production of thyroxine. Fucus has anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for bladder inflammation and rheumatism. Alginates protect the gastric mucosa and reduce acid secretion. Externally, fucus moisturizes dry skin and has antibacterial properties. A 2002 Japanese study found that daily application of seaweed extract increases skin thickness and elasticity.


Cultivation

Fucus is primarily harvested from natural habitats, but collection in contaminated areas should be avoided. Sustainable commercial harvesting is crucial to ensure the plant's survival.


Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Obesity)

  1. Infusion: Place 2 grams in 200 ml of boiling water, let stand for 10 minutes, and take one to three times daily.
  2. Capsules (600 mg powder): Take one capsule daily with water.

For External Use (Dry Skin)

  1. Creams and Gels: Apply to the affected area as per instructions.

Warnings

  1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
  2. Avoid fucus with aspirin or other blood-thinning medications.
  3. Do not use fucus during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for children under 12.
  4. Consult a professional if you have thyroid problems before using fucus.
  5. Prolonged use may cause painful thyroid swelling, which should resolve after discontinuation.
  6. Fucus may worsen or increase acne.