Little evidence on tonic from the tropics

Limu moui is one of several brown algae native to the South Pacific. Like other sea plants in its class, limu moui contains vitamins, minerals, fiber and complex carbohydrates called polysaccharides. Researchers in Europe and Asia are studying one of these polysaccharides, known as fucoidan, for its possible effects on the human immune system and for its potential as an alternative to the anticoagulant drug heparin. Fucoidan is also found in sea urchin eggs, sea cucumbers, the Pacific brown seaweed bladderwrack, the Japanese kelp called Laminaria japonica, and numerous other species of brown algae.

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Elena Conis

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Uses: People take limu moui and other supplements containing fucoidan in attempts to strengthen the immune system, treat allergies, reduce high blood pressure, combat infections, lower cholesterol, manage diabetes and prevent cancer.

Dose: Neither limu moui nor fucoidan have been adequately studied, so reliable dosing information is unavailable. Some manufacturers recommend 1 to 2 ounces of liquid limu moui daily.

Precautions: Animal studies suggest that fucoidan can prolong the amount of time it takes blood to clot, so people taking blood-thinning drugs should check with a doctor before taking fucoidan-containing supplements.

Research: Fucoidan has been studied far more extensively than any of the sea plants that provide the compound, including limu moui. However, studies have been limited to test tube and animal experiments, and clinical trial evidence is nonexistent. In vitro studies show that fucoidan increases the activity of several types of immune cells, including so-called natural killer cells, macrophages and lymphocytes (white blood cells). The compound appears to destroy certain cancer cells and viruses and help stimulate formation of new blood vessels following an injury. Fucoidan also appears to help thin the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots. Though promising, the evidence is too preliminary to support human consumption.

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Dietary supplement makers are not required by the U.S. government to demonstrate that their products are safe or effective. Ask your healthcare provider for advice on selecting a brand.