Dulse is a red seaweed (Palmaria palmata) that grows in cold coastal waters. It supplies a natural source of iodine, potassium, and trace minerals. Many people take it as a dietary supplement for normal thyroid activity.
The body needs iodine to produce thyroid hormones. Dried leaf, powder, capsules, and liquid extracts all offer a way to help meet that daily need. You can take it with food or on an empty stomach, and serving sizes shift depending on the product form you choose. Dulse packs a hefty amount of iodine. Overdoing it can upset thyroid function, especially for anyone with a condition like hyperthyroidism or Hashimoto's disease. If you take thyroid medication or know you have a thyroid issue, check with a healthcare professional before you start using it.