Fucoidan is a polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweeds that is composed of several monosaccharides including fucose, xylose, galactose, sulfate ester groups and uronic acid. In more detail, depending on the type of brown seaweed, each Fucoidan has its own unique chemical structure. Due to the differences between each Fucoidan’s chemical structure, the function or effectiveness will vary depending on which brown seaweed it is extracted from.
According to scientific research, Fucoidan extracted from Mozuku and Mekabu has shown to support the immune system. Fucoidan extracted from Fucus is recognized for its excellent immune enhancement properties and antioxidative properties. Therefore, in general, a product containing a mixture of various types of Fucoidan will show more positive effects.
The Fucoidan extracted from Okinawa Mozuku is the most popular type of fucoidan. 1 kg of Mozuku is required in order to obtain 1 gram of fucoidan.
Mekabu is the ruffled, flowering sprout located at the base of the Wakame. One of the uniqueness of Mekabu Fucoidan is that it contains more than 34% of sulfated groups.
Fucus fucoidan has a long-history. The fucoidan is extracted from Bladderwrack which is a seaweed found on the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Fucus named after Fucus vesiculosus contained in Bladderwrack.