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  7. Immune-Boosting Red Marine Algae

Gigartina Red Marine Algae is a type of seaweed which has been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine 300 B.C as a nutritious source of food and for treating medical conditions.

Algae comes in a wide range of colours, from blue-green, to brown, to red and is one the most ancient species of plant-like organisms, which can be traced back to the Jurassic period.
Algae plays a role in producing oxygen and provide the base for the oceanic food pyramid.
There are over 4000 species of red algae that have been classified by scientist to this date. Gigartina is one of the most beneficial and potent types available. It is said to have 20 times more mineral content than plants that grow on land.

Benefits of Red Algae

  • Immune Boosting and Anti-Viral Properties.
    The strain, Gigartina skottsbergii, is a rare type of red marine algae containing the highest number of sulphated polysaccharides found in sea plants. Sulfated polysaccharides are unique protein-bound carbohydrates (complex sugars that contain sulphur) that stimulate body’s immune response to bacteria, viruses, fungi and toxins. Human clinical trials indicate the sulfated polysaccharides in Gigartina may help to improve immune function, help counter viruses such as herpes, shingles, HIV and influenza and may reduce the number of viral attacks and their severity. Scientific evidence suggests that Gigartina red algae may interfere with virus’s ability to attach to a host cell. A study conducted in 2009 in New Zealand had found that Gigartina marine algae was effective in preventing the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1) from infecting the body. This was due to the presence of the sulphate polysaccharides. Gigartina also contains Carrageenan, another active component with strong anti-viral and immune boosting properties.
  • Support healthy gut.
    The sulphated polysaccharides can benefit the growth of good bacteria in your gut, which help improve your overall gut health, such as improving nutrient absorption, immune function, and inflammation just to name a few.
  • Rich in essential trace minerals and Iodine
    Red algae are a very good source of protein, minerals such as Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, and Potassium, vitamins such as A and B12, and fibres. Gigartina red algae has also been found to be high in natural form of Iodine, which is may help with thyroid-related issues.
  • Support eye health and prevent eye degeneration
    It is also one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants, which help to protect our bodies from damage from free radicals. The antioxidants Zeaxanthin and Lutein present in red algae also provide a natural support for eye health and help to prevent macular degeneration.
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain relief
    Omega 3 Fatty Acid and Chlorophil are compounds found in Gigartina and other algae, which provide anti-inflammatory, gastro-protective and analgesic properties. Studies suggest Gigartina may help with improving gastric ulcer conditions.
  • Great for skin, hair and nails health
    Red marine algae are believed to help with skin issues such as psoriasis, eczema, herpes and promote healthy skin, hair and nails. The Astaxanthin content has been proven to have natural UV protection effect, neutralizes free radicals and have overall anti-aging effect on skin.
  • Preventing anxiety and depression
    Another great health benefit is that Gigartina is a very rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for helping to regulate mood, preventing anxiety and depression, and can aid in enhancing cognitive function.
  • Good for heart support and cardio-vascular system
    Gigartina is recommended for athletes and people who do lots of physical activities as it is a good source of Magnesium – a mineral essential for over 300 functions in the body including cardiovascular system and muscles performance and tone.

It is important to note that algae supplements can interact negatively with immunosuppressing medications as well as medications that slow blood clotting.

Vibrant Health offers a rare supplement with pure Red Algae extract, Gigartina. This potent natural product features 1000mg with Gigartina skottsbergii extract conveniently packed in a capsule form.
Another Vibrant Health product containing Red Marine Algae extract is their Immune Defense featuring 50ml with Red Algae extrac blended with few herbal and natural compounds for a intestinal immune function support and protection against harmful patogens.