Evidence supporting the use of: Rockweed
For the health condition: Hair (loss or thinning)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Rockweed, a common name for various brown seaweeds in the genus Ascophyllum or Fucus, has been used traditionally in folk and herbal medicine, particularly in coastal regions of Europe and North America. Its use for hair loss or thinning is primarily based on its nutritional content, notably iodine, as well as minerals and antioxidants. Historically, iodine-rich seaweeds have been recommended for hair health under the belief that thyroid dysfunction—often linked to iodine deficiency—can contribute to hair loss. Some traditional systems suggested that increasing iodine intake via seaweed like rockweed could support hair regrowth, especially in cases related to hypothyroidism.

However, direct clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of rockweed specifically for hair loss or thinning is lacking. While there is a plausible link between correcting iodine deficiency and improved hair health, this is not unique to rockweed and applies to iodine sources in general. No controlled human studies have demonstrated that rockweed, as a supplement or topical treatment, is effective for preventing or reversing hair loss. Contemporary herbal literature continues to reference traditional uses, but scientific validation is minimal. Therefore, the traditional use exists, but the supporting evidence remains weak and anecdotal.

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