Fucus vesiculosus is the scientific name for a type of seaweed called bladder wrack. This seaweed can commonly be found in oceans of various countries in the Northern hemisphere. Bladder wrack seaweed is also referred to as rockweed, black tang, red fucus, or sea oak in various parts of the world where they can be found including the British Isles, the Baltic Sea, and the shores of the northern part of the Atlantic and Pacific seas.

Bladder wrack or fucus vesiculosus is said to be very rich in minerals and other healthy substances. Some of its chemical contents include potassium, beta carotene, iodine, bromine, mannitol, and algin among many others. With these healthy content, fucus vesiculosus is commonly used as an active ingredient in various herbal medicine preparations. Some people also consume fucus vesiculosus as a food item and mixed with other items on their plate. Most people though get to have bladder wrack in its extract form that is used in various medical preparations.

Fucus vesiculosus’ iodine content is considered to be very helpful in people with thyroid problems. This is especially for those with inactive thyroid glands that may be secondary to iodine deficiency. To support the thyroid, supplements that contain fucus vesiculosus extracts may be used for treatment. Studies have also shown that fucus vesiculosus may also help patients with some types of cancer in women. Treatment with bladder wrack or consumption of this seaweed has been known to thwart estrogen-related cancers in many Asian women. Some people also believe that the fiber content of the bladder wrack seaweed along with its nutrient content is very helpful in controlling weight and managing diabetes. Some people also take supplements that contain fucus vesiculosus to help make their skin more healthy and young looking. Some medical experts also promote the consumption of products that contain focus vesiculosus because it also helps relieve symptoms of fatigue and ease discomfort during a woman’s menstrual period.