All too often when we think of the healthy green foods, we think of land based greens and forget about the wonderful marine flora. Seaweeds, along with phytoplankton are the basis of the food chain for the entire ocean. They are responsible for all life in the ocean. But the humble sea plant has many hidden advantages for us land folk too. Whether you’re blighted by acne, flaring up with eczema, or feel your skin needs saving, you might be surprised how seaweed can help.

Seaweed benefits for inner health

Considering seaweed is not a common part of the western diet, it’s no surprise that it’s usually excluded from the grocery list. However, seaweed absorbs an incomparable amount of minerals and trace elements from the sea, one of them being the all-important iodine. Iodine is known to maintain a healthy thyroid and metabolic function, producing and regulating hormones. Iodine aside, seaweed is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and is one of the most important sources of calcium. Additionally, seaweed also contains B12, which some consider to be the most neglected nutrient. In comparison to other vegetables, seaweed exceeds all others in terms of in medicinal use.

Removes toxins and purifies skin

While seaweed holds countless internal health benefits, it is becoming increasingly popular for external usage and a favourite in cosmetics ingredient lists. It has been widely recognized to be extremely beneficial when it comes to purifying and detoxifying the skin. The main reason it works so well: it draws out toxins and impurities from the pores, while leaving natural oil intact. Seaweed is excellent in promoting circulation and aiding in skin cell rejuvenation, while containing strong antibacterial components. Due to these properties, seaweed has also shown improvements in the treatment of acne.

Anti-ageing

The various antioxidant, vitamins and minerals found in seaweed are essential for skin rejuvenation and healing, keeping the skin youthful. These elements protect against harmful environmental free radical damage which has been long associated with advancing the ageing process.

Nourish and hydrating the skin

The lipid and amino acid profile of seaweed promises the yield of glowing and healthier looking skin through regular use. One of the main reasons why experts will suggest the use of simple seaweed over some creams and lotions, is because it has the ability to penetrate through the skin and become absorbed to the deeper levels of the epidermis. Thus, all layers of the skin are hydrated, which naturally shows through the skin’s surface.

Using Seaweed

Seaweed baths have been long admired by the Irish due to their nourishing and therapeutic effects. Mungo Murphy’s Seaweed Co is both a beauty product and seaweed food line comprised of only sustainably collected and hand-harvested seaweed from the wild Atlantic shores of Connemara in Ireland.

Side note

Seaweed is an affordable and 100% natural without any additional ingredients. However, it’s important to keep in mind where you source your seaweed. Since the accident at Fukushima, much of the world’s seaweed has been tainted. Alternative sources come from Korea, or farms such as Mungo Murphy’s Seaweed off the Atlantic shores. Personally, I try to source seaweed from organic farms, which will have little toxic residue.

The use of seaweed as a vegetable and as a cosmetic ingredient should never be underestimated. Although the knowledge of its beneficial properties may not be widespread, the cultures that have incorporated it into daily life have flourished as a result.