Recent research has shown that there are many other 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 been shown to inhibit viral infections such as herpes, common flu and mumps.
Japanese research has shown that substances from algae have an inhibiting effect on certain types of cancer on mice.
Laminine oxalate (from Laminaria) is effective against high blood pressure. The polysaccharides of algae have the ability to bind harmful metal ions. This can be used in cases of poisoning by metals or radioactive strontium.