Scientific name

Fucus vesiculosus

Family

Used Parts

Of the Fucus, the dried thallus is used, which comes in flat, cartilaginous, ribbon-like pieces of blackish color.

Synonyms

Marine oak

Chemical constituents

• mucopolysaccharides;
• Sulphured esters;
• Trace elements, including iodine (Fucus FU contains at least 0.05% iodine);
• Polyphenols (florogucinol, fucoli);
• Tannins;
• Sterols (fucosterol).

Fucus in Herbalist: Property of the Fucus

The Fucus is the most well-known seaweed, because it is used improperly as a slimming and anti-cellulite remedy, as it is considered a valid 'thyroid stimulant' even if in reality it is endowed with completely different pharmacological activities.

Due to the iodine content, the main properties include the use in the treatment of some forms of hypothyroidism and obesity.

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Warnings

The average daily iodine requirement is 150 mcg; it is therefore advisable not to exceed this threshold, otherwise there is the risk of interfering with the thyroid function. For this reason, it is important to prescribe only products with a defined amount of iodine.

Side effects

Cases of hyperthyroidism and acne eruptions have been reported after taking Fucus extracts.

Contraindications

In the use of Fucus particular attention must be paid by patients with hyperthyroidism. Avoid taking in case of proven hypersensitivity.

Pharmacological Interactions

Prolonged intake of alginates can reduce the absorption of iron and other minerals in the intestine.

Lithium carbonate enhances the hypothyroid effects of many iodine compounds such as Fucus.