Seaweed Extract Shown to Alleviate Prostate Symptoms in Clinical Study

Australian biotechnology firm Marinova has released findings from a clinical trial indicating that its unique fucoidan extract, derived from seaweed, can alleviate symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, conducted in 2026, evaluated the effects of fucoidan, a natural compound found in brown algae, on men experiencing BPH.

The 90-day study involved 88 men aged 45–80 who were diagnosed with moderate BPH and received either a daily fucoidan supplement or a placebo. BPH is a common condition, with global prevalence estimated between 50-60% for men aged 60 and rising to 90% for men aged 80. It commonly leads to urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, weak stream, and increased frequency, significantly impacting quality of life.

Participants who took the high-purity fucoidan supplement showed clinically significant improvements in overall BPH symptoms compared to the placebo group. Specifically, voiding symptoms improved more than ninefold, and storage symptoms saw a twofold increase. Participants also reported a substantial enhancement in their quality of life due to reduced urinary issues.

Lead researcher Dr. Barbara Wimmer highlighted the clinical significance and safety of fucoidan observed in the trial. She expressed anticipation that these findings could lead to the commercialization of high-purity fucoidan to help manage BPH symptoms. The study was published in the peer-reviewed journal Research and Reports in Urology.