Fucus

Popular names: humpback fucus, sea oak, porcine fucus. Often used: layers looking for both types of algae.

Pharmacy name: Fucus – Fucus vesiculosus.

Botanical description. Bubbly and knotty fucus belong to a group of brown algae that live in the shallow waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the North and Western Baltic Seas, and also in the Pacific Ocean. Ribbon-like dichotomously branching branches of fucus reach a length of 1 m and have a rigid central vein and air bubbles, most often located in pairs. Fucus bunches do not often form extensive thickets. Collect them with nets and dry quickly.

Active ingredients: iodine in the form of organic salts, also associated with protein; mucus, polyphenols with antibacterial action.

Healing action and application. Due to their high iodine content, fucus was previously used mainly in the form of galenic products for thyroid disorders. Nowadays, fucus has become very popular as a means for losing weight, because it increases metabolism. It is also prescribed as an independent means for preparing baths during courses in order to reduce weight. Both of these forms of application I reject: the first because of its riskiness, the second because of its meaninglessness. The German National Health Service also speaks out against the use of fucus.

Side effects : nervousness, palpitations and insomnia due to hyperthyroidism.

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