Antibacterial agents present in Wrack seaweed have been shown in clinical research to make it it effective against common food poisoning bacteria including the fungus Candida albicans; Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and E. coli; and a bacterium associated with pneumonia. (109).

Seagreens® complex sulphated polysaccharides stimulate lymphocyte and interferon production and other anti-tumour activity; also the immune enhancing T- and B-cells, inhibiting viral pathogenesis.

Recent research (2000), using a red algæ Dumontiaceæ has shown that these polysaccharides support the body’s specific immune response to Herpes Simplex and Herpes Zoster viruses, helping to reduce or prevent the occurrence and severity of outbreaks. There was anecdotal evidence of marked improvement in cases of Epstein Barr and Candida.

Two US patents were filed for clinical efficacy in the treatment of Herpes I & II. A useful inhibitory effect against AIDS virus infection can be expected from the special polysaccharides in wrack seaweed (63), which make up approximately half of total carbohydrate 600mg/g (see Table 2 below for a comprehensive nutritional profile).

Seaweeds have exceptional value in the treatment of Candida overgrowth. They contain selenium and (all the) other minerals necessary for rebuilding immunity; furthermore the rich iodine content is used by enzymes in the body to produce iodine-charged free radicals which deactivate yeasts.

Before the advent of antifungal drugs, iodine was the standard medical treatment for yeasts. When candidiasis is complicated with tumours or cancers, then seaweed is of additional benefit. Salt should normally be restricted during Candida overgrowth” (1 p36). Its usefulness in mineral provision and salt replacement is well documented.

See also Immune Deficiency

See also Salt Replacement