ABSTRACT
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), several sea-weeds have been used. Nostoc muscorum Ag. and N. sphaeroides Kütz (Nostocaceae) are used in the treatment of night-blindness and burns. Saragassum fusiforme (Harvey) Setchell (Sargassaceae) has been used as an antifungal and anticoagulant in TCM since 8th century A.D. Kunbu (Laminaria and Ecklonia), Haizao (Sargassum) and Zicai (Porphyra) are integral parts of TCM. The Sargassum decoction is used in the treatment of obesity, breast and ovarian tumors and lymphadenitis. Kunbu and haizao are used in promoting diuresis. Laminaria japonica Aresch. (Laminariaceae) and Undaria pinnatifi da (Harvey) Suringar (Phaeophyceae) are used traditionally in Korea to promote maternal health.
