Beneficial algae

The sea offers all the vital nutrients that our body needs। EVER since the movie Jaws, the sea has never been viewed the same way again. Which is a pity because there is so much goodness from the sea that can benefit mankind. Covering three-quarters of the globe's surface, the sea is a huge reservoir of life. This marine aquarium contains more than 500,000 aquatic species and 250,000 seaweeds, of which less than 50 species are being used today. A 19th-century biologist, Dr Rene Quinton, once said that "our body is just a seawater aquarium where a few billion cells bathe". He conducted experiments which showed that white blood cells continued to live in sea water but would perish in any other environment. He succeeded in proving that the chemical profiles of seawater have amazing parallels with the inner environment of the human body. Not surprisingly, the sea offers all the vital nutrients that our body needs as it is brimming with trace elements, proteins, amino acids and vitamins essential for our health.

Algae Algae don't have roots, conductive tissue or reproductive organs। Exchange with water (osmosis) occur across their entire surface, and they grow thanks to minerals found in seawater and gradually develop "stems" and "leaves". Seaweeds have an enormous ecological impact because they produce about 70% of the oxygen we breathe. Drawing from the riches of the ocean, they absorb marine substances, and their tissue may contain one thousand times more iodine, one hundred times more calcium, 10 times more magnesium and copper, and 20 times more vitamins than land plants. There are several different species and colours of algae which are composed of 75% organic matter and 25% minerals. The four main families of seaweeds are: The brown algae (pheophycees), which contains very high levels of iodine and fibre, is a rich source of vitamin C and E. The green algae (chlorophycees) is a source of vitamin C and magnesium. The red algae (rhodophyceae) has high levels of beta-carotene and proteins. The blue algae (cyanophyceae) contains high levels of group B vitamins (particularly B12), pigments, amino acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids and are a source of calcium and protein. More than eight million tons of algae are used throughout the world every year: 47% for nutritional purposes, 43% to obtain phycocolloids, 7% to fertilise agricultural soil and only 3% for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Alga is rarely used simply as a food source. However, we often consume it in many foods without realising it. Often used for its gelling properties, algae are low calorie substances, and those used in the food industry can be used to substitute butter or cream in many pre-cooked foods. In Asia, seaweed is an essential part of the people's diet, particularly in Japan, where it is consumed in large quantities. The growing of seaweed started in Japan around 720 B.C. Nowadays, this activity involves more than one million people. Interestingly, statistics show that the Japanese eat as much algae in a day as the Europeans do in a year.

Algae have also long been used for healthcare and as dietary supplements। Most seaweeds contain polyphenols, particularly phlorotannins, which combat free radicals. They also display a wide spectrum of carotenoids which have antioxidant properties that protect cells against the harmful effects of the sun. Applied topically, seaweeds act as stimulants, firming agents and moisturisers and also help rebalance the skin. When taken orally, seaweed can help compensate the body's deficiencies, stimulate general metabolism, strengthen natural defences and boost energy.

Cosmetic use In cosmetic applications such as creams, lotions and shampoos, the algae's bio-active ionising elements, minerals, vitamins and protein contents work to nourish and return the skin to a state of equilibrium। The antibacterial action of algae can help limit the use of synthetic preservatives in creams. The seaweed's aromatic substances can be found in some fragrances, with their fresh and invigorating notes. Some examples of the use of algae include Criste marine which comes from the sea plant Samphire, that is rich in trace elements and has excellent purifying properties। Seve marine is extracted from Blidingia Minima which helps repair the skin barrier in order to restore and maintain optimum moisture levels in the skin. Hyposensine can significantly raise the skin's tolerance, making it less sensitive to harsh external elements.

Due to their many active ingredients and ability to hold a high concentration of minerals, algae have the capacity to provide the skin with exceptional moisturising and regenerating actions. Biological reactions are stimulated and there is an increase in oxygenation and cellular nutrition, followed by improved detoxification of skin cells. One major discovery in marine treatments is the procedure of micronisation. This consists of suspending marine algae evenly in a gaseous current and a turbulent flow, which leads to compression and decompression. These actions cause the membranes of the algae cells to disintegrate, and release the protoplasmic content in which the minerals are concentrated. This leads to the production of a fine and even algae powder that does not irritate the skin. Since then, micronised algae have been used in the best thalassotherapy centres worldwide for their beneficial effects on articular, muscular and circulatory problems, certain kinds of dermatitis and also for their anti-obesity effect. "In my experience, I have seen very few disadvantages of using algae in both face and body treatments. In general, most people love the smell of the sea. But if you really feel adverse to using products containing seaweed, then try using alternatives. Some products use mud from the Dead Sea which doesn't have a sea smell," says English international trainer Joanne Mazzitelli, who has 20 years experience in the beauty field. She is currently working for a French skincare brand. "Some people believe they are allergic to iodine. But what's more likely is that they are allergic to a fish protein, found particularly in shellfish. It is always advisable to check with a doctor if you have any doubts," Mazzitelli adds. Skincare brands have conducted meticulous research and development, and obtained medical patents for their products. Proven by medical experts, the algae used in facial or body treatments are said to be able to treat eczema, psoriasis, rheumatism, arthritis as well as improve blood circulation, relieve muscle ache and give an overall sensation of well-being. - Article courtesy of Thalgo.