Seaweeds Invade The Shores Of China

Alginates are used in wound dressings, and production of dental moulds. In microbiology research, agar is extensively used as culture medium. Seaweed is a source of iodine, necessary for thyroid function and to prevent goitre. Excess intake of seaweed can raise iodine to toxic levels, however. Seaweeds may have curative properties for tuberculosis, arthritis, colds and influenza, worm infestations and even tumors. Seaweed extract is used in some diet pills. Other seaweed pills exploit the same effect as gastric banding, expanding in the stomach to make the body feel more full.