FUCUS VESICULOSUS
BLADDERWRACK SEAWEED
Bladderwrack Seaweed, scientifically known as Fucus vesiculosus, is a type of brown seaweed predominantly found along the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Recognizable by its distinctive air bladders that help the seaweed float, bladderwrack has a rich history, especially in traditional maritime cultures. Historically, it was one of the original sources of iodine, discovered in the early 19th century and subsequently used to treat goiter, a disease caused by iodine deficiency. Rich in minerals, including iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and zinc, bladderwrack also contains various vitamins and antioxidants. Health-wise, bladderwrack is believed to support thyroid health due to its iodine content, promote digestion, and offer anti-inflammatory benefits. For the skin, its high mineral content can nourish and cleanse. The antioxidants present in bladderwrack, particularly fucoxanthin, protect the skin from free radical damage, reducing premature aging signs. Additionally, its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties soothe and moisturize the skin, making it feel more supple and smooth. With its plethora of beneficial compounds, bladderwrack seaweed is gaining increasing attention in modern skincare formulations, offering holistic benefits rooted in nature's bounty.