Evidence supporting the use of: Laminaria
For the health condition: Goiter
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Laminaria, a genus of brown seaweed, is used in the management of goiter primarily due to its high iodine content. Iodine is an essential micronutrient required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency is a well-established cause of goiter (thyroid gland enlargement). Historically, populations with low dietary iodine intake have shown endemic goiter, and supplementation with iodine-rich substances, including seaweed like Laminaria, has been employed to prevent and treat this condition.
Scientifically, the role of iodine supplementation in reducing the prevalence of goiter is well documented. Laminaria contains high levels of inorganic iodine, which can be absorbed and utilized by the thyroid gland. Clinical studies and public health interventions using iodized salt or seaweed have demonstrated a reduction in goiter prevalence in iodine-deficient populations. However, modern clinical guidelines typically recommend controlled iodine supplementation rather than unregulated consumption of seaweed due to the risk of excessive iodine intake, which can cause thyroid dysfunction.
While there is robust scientific rationale and historical precedent for using Laminaria and other seaweeds to support thyroid health in cases of iodine deficiency, direct clinical trials specifically using Laminaria for goiter are limited. Therefore, the evidence is rated as moderate (3/5), based on extrapolation from the established relationship between dietary iodine and thyroid health, rather than Laminaria-specific clinical trials.
Other health conditions supported by Laminaria
Cancer (natural therapy for)Cancer (prevention)
Goiter
Inflammation
Skin (infections)
Wounds and Sores