Irish Sea Moss, Bladderwrack & Burdock Root
What is Irish Sea moss?
A species of red algae that grows near the coast line in rocky areas of the Atlantic coast. In it’s natural state, color varies between brownish purple to greenish yellow. Following are listed some reasons why you should consider consuming sea moss regularly.
Health Benefits of Sea Moss
Promotes regular thyroid function
The thyroid is a gland found in the neck below the adams apple. This gland secretes hormones known as triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). These hormones are known as T3 and T4 based on the atoms of iodine per molecule. T3= 3 iodine atoms per molecule, T4= 4 iodine atoms per molecule. These hormones have effects on the majority of the body's tissues and increase BMR (basal metabolic rate). Here are just a few examples of what the thyroid is responsible for:
Increases blood flow by directly increasing the rate and strength of the heartbeat.
Increases the growth rate of young children.
Plays a major roll in thought patterns, sexual function, and sleep.
Regulates central and peripheral nervous system function.
Regulates menstrual cycle.
Controls cholesterol levels.
The most common cause of thyroid abnormalities is iodine deficiency. Iodine is one of the many minerals found abundantly in sea moss. By consuming sea moss regularly, you are directly feeding the thyroid.
Improves metabolism
What we refer to as our metabolism is really the process of chemical transformation that occurs within our cells. After food is consumed, our metabolism is responsible for 3 functions.
Converting food into energy for cellular functions
Converting food into building and recovery elements for cells
Discarding waste after enough food has been processed for the above mentioned conversions
Improves circulation
Filters out germs and other bacteria during blood circulation
Boosts immune function
Sea moss is known to have antiviral, antibacterial, anticoagulant, and antimicrobial properties.
Promotes digestive regularity
Sea Moss is known to ease many digestive issues such as indigestion, gastritis, ulcers, and constipation. It is said due to the jelly- like consistency of sea moss, it can provide relief to all inflamed mucus membranes by coating the intestinal wall and at the same time pulling toxins out of the body.
Suppresses appetite
Sea Moss is a great appetite suppressant due to its high concentration of minerals and its nutrient density. Most of us experience the uncomfortable sensations in our stomach when we have not consumed anything for a period of time. This discomfort may be coupled with weakness and cravings. This is the feeling that we know as hunger. Today we have many companies that create products to assist in the regulation and suppression of this hunger. Do your due diligence in researching what works best for you should you go that route. However, for the people that are looking to suppress their appetite in a more natural and healthier way, sea moss should be considered. When you process sea moss into gel form, it is easy to add as an ingredient with other foods and drinks. Due to its jelly-like consistency, when sea moss is consumed it passes through the intestines and soothes any inflammation as well as remove any toxins. Sea moss consumed regularly will help to eliminate cravings and as a result, bring the body back to its natural weight based on your level of activity and nutrition.
Promotes healthy sexual function
Due to the generous amount of zinc and other minerals that are vital for reproductive function and health, sea moss is great for anyone who desires an increased sex drive. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, sea moss promotes circulation throughout the entire body especially our reproductive organs. For male readers who are experiencing difficulty with sex related drive, stamina, erection, and other abnormalities, then you should consider consuming sea moss regularly. For female readers who are experiencing a lack in desire, painful sexual experience due to dryness, feminine irritation, and anything else related to this particular topic, then a regular dose of sea moss may improve this situation.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Sea Moss is loaded with nutrients that are vital to the human body such as bromine, sulfur, calcium, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, beta-carotene, selenium, protein, pectin, zinc, vitamin-C and B-vitamins just to name a few.
Recovery
Sea Moss provides relief from muscle and joint pain. Whether you are a professional athlete, fitness enthusiast, or perform any kind of heavy lifting at work, sea moss can help replace the minerals that you deplete the body of when performing these activities.
Skin
Used topically as a skin and hair toner and nourisher.
Aside from internal consumption, sea moss can be applied directly to the skin. It works great on sunburn, dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. The best application we have discovered is what we call “The Sea Moss Soak”. To perform this soak you simply fill up your bath tub with water and add the sea moss gel.
Bladderwrack
The most impressive health benefits of bladderwrack include its ability to fight obesity, benefit the thyroid, improve the metabolism, reduce inflammation, strengthen bones, protect the skin and premature aging, aid vision, lower risk of cancer, and strengthen heart health.
What is Bladderwrack?
Although the name may be a bit odd, bladderwrack is actually one of the most common types of seaweed found in the oceans. This kelp variety has the scientific name Fucus vesiculosus, as it is known around the British Isles, Europe, the Baltic Sea, and even the eastern coast of North America. Some of the other names of bladderwrack include rockweed, red fucus, and black tang, depending upon the part of the world. This type of seaweed prefers shelters inlets without too much movement or current and is found in huge numbers in certain areas. The plant is highly identifiable by the small paired air sacs found along the midrib branches.
This has been an herbal remedy and a culinary element in various cultures for centuries. In fact, bladderwrack was the original source of iodine, which was hugely important in treating various conditions, such as deficiency, a consequence of which can be goiter – and is also an important part of a nutritional diet. You can use bladderwrack most commonly as an herbal supplement or powder. It can be consumed directly or mixed into water or facial scrubs to improve its efficacy. While this has been used in alternative treatments for hundreds of years, it is only becoming well-known to the general public recently, so the demand for this herb is definitely rising. The high levels of mucilage, beta-carotene, iodine, potassium, zeaxanthin, and other organic compounds give this herb a great deal of health power as well.
Health Benefits of Bladderwrack
Thyroid ImprovementAs mentioned above, bladderwrack was the original source of iodine back in the 19th century. Iodine is an important modulator of our thyroid gland and can ensure that our hormonal and metabolic activities are under control. Therefore, as a powerful source of iodine, bladderwrack has become associated with treating many types of thyroid disorders. Primarily, bladderwrack stimulates the thyroid gland to increase hormonal output.
Weight Loss
In many cultures, bladderwrack is thought to heighten metabolism, which makes it easier to lose weight. As it has been praised as a weight-loss tool for generations and many people are starting to realize how beneficial it can be. When your body is working at a high level and burning off more fat, you also suppress the appetite, thereby preventing obesity and the other related health issues that come along with it.
Vision Health
The high levels of beta-carotene found in bladderwrack make it an ideal solution for those looking to improve their vision. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that directly neutralized free radicals in the eyes and cornea. Essentially, bladderwrack can help slow down macular degeneration and prevent the development of cataracts.
Reduced Inflammation
One of the other popular uses of bladderwrack over the years has been as an anti-inflammatory substance. Whether you are suffering from gout, arthritis, hemorrhoids, or skin irritation, bladderwrack may successfully neutralize the irritation, reduce swelling, and even relieve pain. The internal and external (topical) uses of bladderwrack may both be useful approaches, and are even better in conjunction, such as for sore muscles and joints.
Anticancer Potential
Fucoidan is a unique type of fiber found in high quantities within bladderwrack. Research suggests that studies fucoidan has many beneficial properties that include antiviral, antitumor, anticoagulant, antiangiogenic, and antiarthritic properties.
According to a report by researchers from the University of Tasmania, Australia fucoidan has anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties and may induce apoptosis. However, more clinical trials are required to support the anticarcinogenic effects.
Improved Digestion
There are a number of different types of fiber found in bladderwrack, but one particularly important one is alginic acid. Alginic acid relieves constipation and adds bulk to stool, promoting a smooth digestive process that is efficient in terms of nutrient uptake. Furthermore, this may help to relieve excess flatulence, bloating, cramping, and more serious conditions like gastric ulcers and colon cancer.
Heart Health
Research studies have linked bladderwrack with higher levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), which may be contributory to helping you prevent atherosclerosis, lowering blood pressure, reducing your risk of strokes and heart attacks, and generally lessen the strain on your cardiovascular system.
Anti-aging Properties
There are many valuable minerals found in bladderwrack that can help to make the skin beautiful, but there are also powerful organic chemicals that can slow down the aging process. These antioxidants in bladderwrack keep the skin looking healthy and young, reduce age spots and blemishes, and lessen the appearance of wrinkles. Antioxidants can also boost skin elasticity, keeping your skin looking tight and toned well into your old age.
Word of Caution: If you suffer from hyperthyroidism, then you may not need an extra boost of iodine. Also, some people are allergic to iodine, so large amounts of bladderwrack could be very dangerous. Finally, if you have an upcoming surgery or suffer from a bleeding disorder, you should avoid bladderwrack, as it can make blood clotting more difficult. Check with your medical professional before adding this herbal remedy into your health regimen.
Burdock Root Benefits
Purifies Blood
Burdock root benefits include the ability to naturally purify the blood. Studies have shown that burdock root can help detox heavy metals from the blood and improve organ health. It also promotes healthy blood circulation to the surface of the skin, which can improve overall skin health.
Strengthens the Lymphatic System
Burdock root benefits include the ability to strengthen the lymphatic system. It helps induce lymphatic drainage and detoxification. By purifying the blood and improving the health of the lymphatic system, burdock root benefits also include the ability to fight off disease.
Works as a Natural Diuretic
Burdock root works as a natural diuretic to help stimulate the kidneys and induce detoxification. It promotes urination to help the body get rid of excess water and sodium that can cause bloating and water retention.
Heals the Skin
Burdock root benefits include the ability to heal skin issues, including acne, eczema and psoriasis. Burdock cools the body internally to help reduce inflammation and calm irritated skin. In a 2008 study, researchers found that burdock root was also able to improve skin health by visibly reducing wrinkles.
Defends Against Diabetes
Burdock root benefits include the ability to protect the body from diabetes. It contains a soluble and prebiotic fiber called inulin. Inulin helps improve digestion and naturally lowers blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that burdock root is a beneficial addition to a diabetic diet.
Combats Cancer
Research suggests that burdock root benefits include the ability to combat cancer. It contains arctigenin, a lignan found in certain plants. Studies have shown that arctigenin can help kill human lung cancer cells, human liver cancer cells and human stomach cancer cells.
Improves Arthritis
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, burdock root benefits include the ability to improve arthritis symptoms. In a study published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases, researchers found that burdock root was able to improve inflammatory status and oxidative stress in patients who suffer from degenerative joint disease.
Helps Treat an Enlarged Spleen
Research has shown that burdock root benefits include the ability to treat an enlarged spleen by improving liver health, promoting circulation and fighting inflammation. Burdock root helps to strengthen the immune system and speed healing.
Fights Tonsillitis
Burdock root works as a natural remedy for tonsillitis, an inflammatory condition that causes the tissues in the tonsils to become infected. It helps to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and speed wound healing.
Side Effects of Burdock RootWhen consumed as a food, burdock root is considered to be safe for use. Avoid burdock if you’re dehydrated, pregnant or nursing. It may cause dehydration and has not been proven safe in pregnancy.
This information has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.