Seaweed Extract Shows Efficacy in Relieving Prostate Symptoms
A clinical trial conducted by Australian biotechnology company Marinova has demonstrated that a fucoidan extract from brown seaweed can significantly alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Australian biotechnology firm Marinova has released findings from a clinical study evaluating the effects of fucoidan, a compound derived from brown seaweed. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial indicated that the fucoidan extract provided significant relief from symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The 90-day study involved 88 men aged 45 to 80 with moderate BPH. Participants received either a daily fucoidan supplement or a placebo. Results showed a clinically significant improvement in overall BPH symptoms for those taking the fucoidan supplement compared to the placebo group.
Specifically, the fucoidan group experienced more than a nine-fold improvement in voiding symptoms, which include difficulty emptying the bladder and a weak urine stream. Storage symptoms, such as increased frequency and urgency of urination, showed a two-fold improvement. These symptom reductions led to a substantial increase in the participants' quality of life.
"The study results were clinically significant and the fucoidan was shown to be safe throughout the study period," stated lead researcher Dr. Barbara Wimmer. "We expect these findings will result in the commercialization of high purity fucoidan to help relieve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia."
Marinova is an Australian company focused on the research, development, and manufacture of high purity fucoidans for various applications, including nutritional supplements, medical devices, skincare, and pharmaceuticals.