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Dulse Leaf Extract

Also known as: Dulse, red dulse, dillisk, Dulse Leaf Extract, Palmaria palmata

Overview

Dulse (Palmaria palmata L.) is an edible red seaweed found in the North Atlantic and Northwest Pacific oceans, traditionally consumed as food and used as a dietary supplement. It is recognized for its rich nutritional profile, including iodine, potassium, protein, and phenolic compounds. Emerging research, primarily in vitro and some clinical studies on macroalgae, suggests potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and lipid-lowering properties. While it holds promise as a nutraceutical ingredient, high-quality clinical evidence specifically for dulse leaf extract remains limited. It is often investigated for its potential to support metabolic health and provide a natural source of iodine.

Benefits

Dulse leaf extract exhibits several potential benefits, though specific high-quality clinical evidence for the extract itself is limited. An in vitro study from 2019 demonstrated that a phenolic extract of dulse inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced activation of human neutrophils, reducing proinflammatory and prooxidant responses, suggesting its potential in managing chronic inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, a 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis on macroalgae supplementation (which included various species, not exclusively dulse) indicated improvements in serum lipid profiles, glycemic control, and anthropometric measures, pointing to potential cardiovascular and metabolic benefits. Dulse is also a natural source of iodine, which can help address iodine deficiency, although excessive intake requires caution, especially for individuals with thyroid conditions. Clinical evidence from randomized controlled trials specifically on dulse leaf extract is still sparse.

How it works

The anti-inflammatory effects of dulse leaf extract are primarily attributed to its phenolic compounds, which are believed to modulate neutrophil activation and mitigate oxidative stress. These bioactive compounds may also influence lipid metabolism and glycemic control through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, as suggested by broader studies on macroalgae. The high iodine content in dulse directly impacts thyroid hormone synthesis, which is crucial for regulating metabolic rate and overall endocrine function. The exact mechanisms of absorption and bioavailability of dulse's phenolics and minerals are still being researched, and they can vary depending on the specific extraction methods and formulation of the supplement.

Side effects

Dulse is generally considered safe when consumed as food, but comprehensive safety data for its medicinal use as an extract are insufficient. There are no well-documented common side effects from clinical trials. However, due to its high potassium content, there is a potential risk of hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems. More rarely, its high iodine content can exacerbate or induce thyroid disorders, particularly in susceptible individuals. Caution is advised regarding drug interactions, especially with thyroid medications and potassium-sparing drugs. Dulse is contraindicated for patients with thyroid disease or kidney impairment, who should avoid high doses. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established for supplemental forms, though food amounts are generally considered safe.

Dosage

There is currently no standardized or clinically established dosing guideline for dulse leaf extract due to a lack of comprehensive clinical trials. Traditional dietary intake varies widely, and supplemental doses must carefully consider the iodine content to prevent excessive intake, which can be harmful. The potency of dulse extracts can differ significantly based on extraction methods and the concentration of bioactive compounds like phenolics. While some clinical studies may use standardized extracts, there is no consensus on an optimal dosage for specific health benefits. Information regarding optimal timing of intake or any required cofactors for enhanced absorption or efficacy is also not well defined.

FAQs

Is dulse effective for lowering cholesterol?

Evidence from broader macroalgae studies suggests potential lipid-lowering effects, but specific randomized controlled trials on dulse extract are currently lacking to confirm this benefit.

Is dulse safe for thyroid patients?

No, due to its high iodine content, dulse may worsen existing thyroid conditions or induce new ones. Individuals with thyroid disorders should avoid high doses.

How quickly do benefits appear?

There is insufficient clinical data to determine the specific time course for the appearance of benefits from dulse leaf extract supplementation.

Are there side effects?

While generally safe as food, medicinal use safety is unclear. Potential risks include hyperkalemia for kidney patients and thyroid issues due to high iodine content.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6891576/ – This in vitro study investigated the effects of a phenolic extract from Palmaria palmata (dulse) on human neutrophils. Researchers found that the dulse extract significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced activation of neutrophils, reducing the release of pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant mediators. This suggests that dulse possesses anti-inflammatory properties at a cellular level, indicating its potential therapeutic application in inflammatory conditions.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10495559/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized findings from multiple clinical trials on macroalgae supplementation, including various species. The analysis concluded that macroalgae supplementation generally improved serum lipid profiles, glycemic control, and anthropometric measures in participants. While promising for metabolic health, the study noted heterogeneity among the included algae species and did not isolate specific effects attributable solely to dulse.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1628/dulse – This WebMD summary provides an overview of dulse, highlighting its traditional use and nutritional content, particularly its richness in iodine. It discusses potential health benefits but emphasizes the lack of strong clinical evidence for many of its purported medicinal uses. The summary also outlines important safety considerations, particularly for individuals with thyroid conditions or kidney impairment due to dulse's high iodine and potassium content.