Ecklonia kurome

BotanicalSeaweedBest with a meal

What is it

Ecklonia kurome is a brown seaweed found in coastal waters around Japan and Korea. Like related Ecklonia species, it is a source of phlorotannins, fucoidan, and iodine.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Antioxidant and vascular support

Mixed Evidence

Phlorotannins from Ecklonia species show antioxidant activity in laboratory studies; human evidence specifically for E. kurome is limited.

How it works

The seaweed contains polyphenolic phlorotannins such as eckol and dieckol, along with sulfated polysaccharides and natural iodine. Preclinical work suggests antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic activity. As a source of dietary iodine, Ecklonia species can contribute to thyroid hormone production. Clinical evidence specifically for E. kurome is limited compared to the more widely studied E. cava.

Dosage

DSLD does not list a single standardized dose. Most supplements supply a few hundred milligrams of whole alga extract per day. Iodine content varies by harvest and processing.

When and how to take it

Usually taken with food once daily.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Whole alga extract

Dry or liquid extract used in marine supplement blends.

Phlorotannin and iodine content variable

Safety

Generally well tolerated short term. The main concern is iodine content; high or chronic intake can disturb thyroid function, particularly in people with thyroid disease. Some Ecklonia products may contain heavy metals depending on sourcing.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in known thyroid disease, pregnancy, and breastfeeding without medical advice. Stay within iodine upper limit of 1100 mcg/day from all sources.

Interactions

Potential interactions with thyroid medications and anticoagulants. Polyphenol and polysaccharide content may have mild antiplatelet effects.

Food sources

Various brown seaweeds

Amount
Provides iodine and dietary fiber
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is Ecklonia kurome safe for the thyroid?⌄

It depends on iodine content. People with thyroid disease should consult a clinician before using seaweed supplements.

Is it the same as Ecklonia cava?⌄

They are related Japanese-Korean brown seaweeds. E. cava is more widely studied in supplements.

References

Ecklonia kurome on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ecklonia kurome on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ecklonia kurome (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.