Herbal Extract
Ecklonia cava
Also known as: brown seaweed extract, dieckol, phlorofucinol extract
Ecklonia cava is a brown seaweed rich in dieckol and other phlorotannins with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Limited human data exist but preliminary research suggests potential metabolic and cognitive support.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Primary uses
- Antioxidant support
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Cognitive support (preliminary)
- Metabolic health
How it works
- Phlorotannin-mediated free radical scavenging
- Enzyme inhibition (elastase, hyaluronidase)
- Anti-inflammatory signaling modulation
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-2 g daily of extract (dieckol content typically 1-5 mg)
- Timing
- With meals
- With food
- Take with food
- Duration
- Safety profile in humans has limited long-term data
- Special populations
- Caution in iodine sensitivity or thyroid disorders; pregnancy data unavailable
Forms
- Whole alga extract (standardized to dieckol)· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Data limited; theoretically may cause mild GI effects
Contraindications
- Iodine sensitivity
- Thyroid disorders (may contain iodine)
Evidence notes
Most evidence comes from in vitro and animal studies. Dieckol and phlorofucinols show interesting bioactivity but human clinical trials are very limited and small. Efficacy in humans remains largely unproven.
Grade D: Primarily pre-clinical or anecdotal; human efficacy not established.
Related in Herbal Extract
Check a full stack
Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.
Open the checkerWhere does Ecklonia cava fit in your stack?
Answer two questions and get a stack graded on research — every ingredient scored on the evidence behind it, not the marketing.
Build my stack2 questions · free · no account needed to start
Also on iPhone — get the free app
Evidence-based supplement guides, no spam
We send a short digest when new guides drop — nothing else. No affiliate pushes, no sponsored content, unsubscribe anytime.
Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.