Seasilver^TM is a dietary supplement that contains aloe vera, a combination of seaweed, pau d’arco, and cranberry concentrate. It has been promoted as a natural immune enhancer. While the exact properties of this product are unclear, certain ingredients may not be appropriate for cancer patients. Aloe vera contains anthraquinones which may irritate the GI system, leading to stomach upset and diarrhea. Certain seaweed products contain carrageenan and algin, substances that can impair absorption of oral medications when taken at high doses. Seaweed products can also contain contaminants, which pose a risk for immunocompromised patients. Pau d’arco is derived from bark that has potential anticoagulant effects due to its coumarin content. It is typically prepared in 20% ethyl alcohol, but the final alcohol concentration of this product is not listed ⁽¹⁾. Cranberry is acidic, and while the pH of this product is unknown, high concentrations may cause stomach irritation ⁽³⁾. No studies have shown the efficacy of this product, which is distributed through a multitiered marketing scheme.

In June 2003, the FDA seized nearly $5.3 million worth of product from Seasilver USA’s San Diego headquarters ⁽³⁾. Since then Seasilver has agreed to comply with strict FDA and FTC guidelines regarding marketing of its product ⁽⁴⁾.