Uses of Algae as a Nutraceutical

If you enjoy eating sushi, use an Irish moss cough syrup, or take spirulina supplements, you are consuming algae. Algae comes in a variety of forms, from complex ocean algaes, such as kelp, to free-floating organisms, like spirulina found on freshwater ponds. Many species of algae are nutraceutical, meaning they possess nutritional as well as medicinal or pharmacological properties, and offer great health-promoting benefit when consumed as vegetables or nutritional supplements.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a blue-green algae used traditionally as a source of food in South America. Today, spirulina is found in health food shops around the world, marketed as a rich source of nutrients, such as protein, iron, B complex vitamins, microminerals and antioxidants. In a study published in "Cellular & Molecular Immunology" in 2011 by the University of California, spirulina was found to reduce iron-deficient anemia and improve immune response in elderly participants. Through these actions, spirulina can help you build resistance to infections and improve energy levels.

Dulse

This seaweed was traditionally gathered from coastlines along Ireland and North America and is still consumed for its health and nutritional benefits today. Traditionally used to treat scurvy, parasites and constipation, research shows dulse may possess added medicinal qualities. In a study published in "Food and Chemical Toxicology" in 2005 by Ryerson University, extracts of dulse were found to have significant antioxidant and antiproliferative actions, and consuming dulse may protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease and free radical damage.

Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack, also known as Fucus, is a species of brown kelp used in traditional herbal medicine for stimulating the thyroid gland and reducing goitres. Extracts of bladderwrack are rich in the micromineral iodine and thyroid hormones such as di-Iodothyronine, providing nutrients required by the thyroid gland to support metabolism throughout the body. Kerry Bones, herbalist and author of "Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs," states that bladderwrack is used as a thyroid tonic, a natural weight loss stimulant and an antirhuematic for arthritic conditions.

Irish Moss

Irish Moss, also known as Carragheen, is a small reddish-purple seaweed found on coasts throughout Britain, North America and Europe. Extracts of Irish moss are used in traditional herbal medicine as a tonic for coughs and colds, with Irish moss lollies and cough syrups still available in the market today. In a study published in "PloS Pathogens" in 2006 by the US National Cancer Institute, researchers found carrageenan, an active chemical of Irish moss, significantly inhibited the growth of the human papilloma virus (HPV). Carrageenan successfully stopped viral particles from binding to cells and compared favorably with standard pharmaceutical treatments.

Nori

Nori is used in Japanese cuisine to wrap sushi rolls and is distinct with its dark purple coloring and salty-sweet taste. A rich source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iodine and essential fatty acids, nori is densely nutritious and supports sushi in being a healthy food choice. Medical research shows nori can help allergies and hypersensitivities. In a study published in "Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry" in 2005 by the Japanese Fisheries Research Agency, a chemical from nori, called porphyran, was found to reduce edema and inhibit the release of allergy-mediating chemicals, such as IgE and interferon, in animals.