Bladder-wrack, a seaweed commonly found on the coasts of North America and Atlantic shores of Europe, was first found to treat thyroid problems(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Thyroid-Support.html) way back in 1860. Today, we have thyroid disease medications such as lithium and phenylbutazone, and even intricate surgical procedures to correct thyroid problems. Yet despite that, a lump of seaweed - or an extract of it - is still recommended and widely used in the treatment of hypothyroidism(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Hypothyroidism.html), Hashimoto's disease, iodine deficiencies, and cretinism. What gives bladder-wrack such durability as a supplement for thyroid support? The quick answer is that it works. The longer answer deals with how it works?

Bladder-wrack: Oceans of Goodness

Bladder-wrack contains iodine, mannitol, beta-carotene, potassium, and many other minerals. All of these minerals together make bladder-wrack an anti-hypothyroid, anti-rheumatic, anti-obese, anti-inflammatory, and thyro-active herb.

Besides treating thyroid disease(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Thyroid-Support.html) and other thyroid problems, bladder-wrack is also used in the treatment of inflamed joints, digestion problems, and to promote soft and healthy skin. It contains alginic acid, a type of dietary fiber that helps it to relieve constipation and diarrhea. Therefore it can effectively used in keeping good digestion. Besides being used as a dietary supplement, it is also used in many creams, lotions and in spas because of its excellent skincare properties. Thyroid Problem Reducing Properties of Bladder-wrack

Bladder-wrack has lots of good stuff inside, but what is it that makes it useful in treating thyroid disease? The main property of bladder-wrack that makes it a common supplement in the treatment of hypothyroidism is its high iodine content. Bladder-wrack often serves as a supplement source of iodine for treating hypothyroidism and other thyroid problems. Bladder-wrack also provides thyroid support by being a tonic for the thyroid gland, and by boosting metabolism.

A Tonic for the Thyroid Gland

Since bladder-wrack has high iodine content, it serves as an essential nutrient source and tonic for thyroid gland function as well as effectively treating various thyroid problems. Bladder-wrack helps thyroid gland to maintain the health of thyroid hormone producing tissues.

Boosts Metabolism of Thyroid Gland

Bladder-wrack helps to boost the metabolism of the thyroid gland. Obesity and weigh gain are often caused due to certain thyroid diseases, and bladder-wrack helps in controlling weight by improving metabolic rate. Bladder-wrack also allows the thyroid gland to improve circulation of blood in body and boost energy levels. It also helps in reducing the fat deposits by burning fats in the body. All this helps reduce the signs and symptoms of thyroid disease, especially hypothyroidism.

Things to Remember: Dosage&Drug Interactions

When hypothyroidism is not caused due to the deficiency of iodine, intake of bladder-wrack herb can cause problems. Therefore, it is better to consult a doctor before taking bladder wrack to treat hypothyroidism, and make sure it is iodine deficiency that is being treated. Furthermore, the amount of iodine supplied by bladder-wrack supplements is not always consistent. Different sources of bladder-wrack contain different iodine levels, depending on water levels and other environmental factors. Always get supplements containing quality ingredients, whether it is herb or vitamin based (or both).

Bladder-wrack should be avoided incase of cardiac problems because it can increase pulse rate and cause tremors. In addition, it should not be used in overactive thyroid conditions. It is also not be recommended during pregnancy or when breast-feeding. It is also not recommended for children below 5 years of age

For anyone else, bladder-wrack continues to be an effective treatment for an under-active thyroid and general thyroid support.