Evidence supporting the use of: Arame
For the health condition: Goiter
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Arame (Eisenia bicyclis) is an edible seaweed commonly used in Japanese cuisine. Its use to support or treat goiter is primarily justified by tradition rather than robust scientific evidence. Historically, seaweeds including arame have been consumed in regions where dietary iodine intake from other sources is low, as seaweeds are rich in iodine—a micronutrient essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. Goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland, is most commonly caused by iodine deficiency. Traditional use of iodine-rich seaweeds to prevent or treat goiter has been documented in various cultures, particularly in East Asia. However, while arame does contain iodine, the actual content can vary greatly depending on where and how it is harvested and processed.
There is a lack of direct clinical studies specifically evaluating arame’s efficacy in treating goiter. The broader category of seaweed has some observational and mechanistic evidence supporting its role in addressing iodine deficiency, but these findings are not specific to arame. Furthermore, excessive intake of iodine from seaweed can sometimes worsen thyroid problems, particularly in individuals with underlying thyroid disorders. In summary, the use of arame for goiter is supported by traditional dietary practices and the known nutritional properties of seaweeds, but not by strong direct scientific evidence or clinical trials specifically focused on arame.
