Recent research has shown that there are many biochemically active substances in algae which have a great pharmacological interest. Several species are used traditionally against intestinal worm infestations in humans and antibiotic effects have been shown in many common green, brown and red algae. Extracts from certain algae have been shown to inhibit viral infections such as herpes, common flue and mumps.
Japanese research on mice has shown that substances from algae have an inhibiting effect on certain types of cancer.
Laminine oxallate (from Laminaria) is effective against high blood pressure. The polysacharides of algae have the ability to bind harmful metal ions. This can be used in cases of poisoning by metals or radioactive strontium.