How Long Before Bladderwrack Tincture Effects Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid has a difficult time producing enough hormones. This can sometimes be a result of a lack of iodine in the body. As cases of hypothyroidism continue to rise, those affected are seeking natural ways to relieve their symptoms, specifically with the aid of herbs, such as Bladderwrack.

The Facts

• Bladderwrack is a brown seaweed that can be found along the Northern coasts of the United States and on the Atlantic coasts in Europe. Those who live along these coasts tend to have lower cases of hypothyroidism as a result of consuming seafood, some of whom consume Bladderwrack. Bladderwrack is available on the market as an herb in various forms.

Features

• Bladderwrack tincture contains three main ingredients: alginic acid, iodine and fucoidan. Iodine production is crucial to a healthy thyroid, which is what hypothyroid sufferers may lack. The most popular form taken is an alcohol extract, also known as a tincture. It is thought that Bladderwrack tincture works with the blood in the body to get iodine back to the thyroid gland. Hence, symptoms may be relieved almost immediately upon consumption.

Benefits

• Bladderwrack tincture is taken by some who suffer from hypothyroidism because it contains high levels of iodine. In severe cases of iodine deficiency, a doctor might recommend Bladderwrack tincture as a supplement to other forms of treatment. According to peacehealth.org, there have been few human studies to prove that Bladderwrack tincture improves symptoms of hypothyroidism. However, in one study, a group of hypothyroid sufferers were found to have improved symptoms and better thyroid-stimulating hormone levels after a year of using Bladderwrack tincture.

Dosage

• Users should be cautious of Bladderwrack dosages, as too much iodine may have adverse effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the recommended dosage of Bladderwrack tincture for hypothyroidism is 600mg to be taken up to three times a day. Look for bottles that list the amount of iodine included to avoid an overdose.

Warning

• Bladderwrack contains iodine, which is a key ingredient to normal thyroid function. However, iodine deficiency is not common in the United States, as there is a plethora of it derived from processed foods. Therefore, it is not wise for anyone to take Bladderwrack tincture unless it is ordered by a doctor for an iodine deficiency. Hypothyroid sufferers who misuse Bladderwrack tincture or take it unnecessarily can develop hyperthyroidism. Also, pregnant women and those who are breast-feeding should not take Bladderwrack tincture, as well as those who previously suffered from alcoholism.