Macrocystis Pyrifera (Brown algae of the Laminariales, or Kelp) is mother nature's wonderful gift to us, in the form of an anti-aging breakthrough. Loaded with hundreds of trace minerals and vitamins - prominent among them are iron, manganese, calcium (10x more than milk!), magnesium, copper, zinc, riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, vitamins A, B-12, B-6, C and E - it has been called the first antioxidant to be described in a living system, because it emits iodide into the atmosphere above and around it, when in distress, thus clearing the area of unwanted pathogens. Contained within this particular algae, is a substance called "Fucoidan". Fucoidan is a polysaccharide which has been studied extensively - with over 1,300 entries in medical journals - for everything from killing cancer cells [1], to protection from radiation [2], allieviating joint pain [3], as well as playing an important role in skincare and reversing the effects of aging [4] among a host of other important findings.
The reason for the laboratory studies surrounding the hopefulness in its ability to alleviate joint pain, and wound repair, is the same as the interest surrounding its anti-aging capabilities- the ability to produce collagen. In one study in The Korean Journal Of Physiology And Pharmacology, it was shown to significantly stimulate the proliferation of CCD-25Sk human fibroblasts [4]. Fibroblasts are cells in connective tissue that produces the extracellular matrix and collagen, the structural framework for animal tissue. In a peer-reviewed Swiss Journal, a double-blind, placebo controlled human study demonstrated fucoidan's ability to reduce wrinkles, retain moisture, reduce age spots and protect from UV rays.[5]
Other studies have focused on fucoidan's role in retaining moisture - which of course, plays a key role in age prevention of the skin. Concerning its ability to retain moisture, It has been favorably compared to the moisture retention capabilities of hyaluronic acid. While hyaluronic acid is a favorite among those seeking to fight the signs of aging skin - and for good reason - studies have shown that fucoidan exceeds hyalluronic acid's ability to retain moisture. Another benefit of fucoidan vs. hyaluronic acid - for those who prefer the most natural of products - is that fucoidan is an organic product, while hyaluronic acid is a synthetic, lab-created version of an organic product which our bodies create. We personally believe in the beneficial properties of nature and strive to present a product that utilizes those natural gifts to their fullest potential, keeping them as pure, simple, beneficial and effective as possible.
Take a look at what an amazing powerhouse sea kelp is:
(This is the nutritional value DV% based on 1.00 Tbs/5.00G)
iodine 500%
vitamin C 16%
manganese 16%
vitamin B2 11%
vitamin A 9%
copper 9%
protein 4%
phosphorus 3%
iron 3%
potassium 3%
zinc 3%
vitamin B3 3%
vitamin B6 3%
vitamin B1 3%
pantothenic acid 3%
Also, otters love to hang around in sea kelp, grazing for food and just chillin'- Their diet of sea urchins is what maintains the balance of kelp forests, which help purify our air! ...So you never know...you may just attract cute little otters!
[1] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21452391
[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21544730
[3] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26197088
[4] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4146635/
[5] http://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/2/2/66
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
As with all kelp/marine algae products, consult your doctor if you have iodine sensitivities.