Seaweed is truly an amazing part of our diet, brimming with nutrients and fascinating compounds. One such interesting type is Ecklonia cava, a brown algae found near Japan, Korea, and China. It’s particularly famous for its strong antioxidant properties, which it gains from thriving in a challenging environment where cold mountain streams meet warm sea waters.
Though research is still ongoing, Ecklonia cava is showing promise in improving health in various ways—helping with heart disease, hair loss, obesity, and more. While there isn’t extensive scientific proof supporting all its benefits yet, some studies do suggest that Ecklonia cava can be quite helpful.
For instance, Ecklonia cava might be a reason why Asian diets often lead to lower cholesterol levels. It’s been shown to help maintain cholesterol and lower blood pressure. There’s also early evidence suggesting it might assist in managing type 2 diabetes and reducing asthma symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
In lab studies, scientists found that the extract might combat osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation. A compound in brown seaweed called fucoidan could also prevent the spread of lung cancer, which might explain why cancer rates are typically low in Asian regions.
Ecklonia cava is also said to promote hair growth thanks to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains dioxinodehydroeckol, which can stimulate hair growth. Additionally, some suggest it might be more effective than drugs like Viagra for improving circulation related to sexual function, without adverse effects.
The extract has also been identified as a strong inhibitor of aldose reductase, which could be beneficial for those with metabolic disorders like diabetes. Phlorotannins from the algae can protect kidneys from damage caused by certain drugs or a high-fat diet.
If you’re trying to manage your weight, Ecklonia cava might help by boosting your metabolism and reducing liver fat. It can also enhance endurance during workouts when taken before exercise.
Ecklonia cava is rich in polyphenols, specifically eckols (or phlorotannins), which are far more powerful than other antioxidants found in various foods. Compared to other seaweeds, it contains more phloroglucinols, which are antioxidants unique to sea plants, beneficial in controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, and inflammation.
However, since limited studies explore its side effects, the safety of using Ecklonia cava regularly remains unclear. If you experience any allergic reactions like itching or a rash, it’s best to stop using it right away.
