North Pacific Red Algae

Especially of interest as a unique immune system vitalizer. Many similar attributes to Kelp and Dulse for energy.

Trace minerals and highly-unique phytonutrients from Red marine algae has been a valued food in Asia for thousands of years due to its highly nutritious qualities. Carrageenans, a family of polysaccharide compounds extracted from algae, have been studied for their unique properties. In vitro studies show that carrageenans aid in a cells natural defense by significantly minimizing the binding of unfriendly proteins to the cells surface.

Red marine algae, a therapeutic superfood, provides the body with a full array of nutrients including complete protein, complex carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, enzymes and sulfated polysaccharides. Its medicinal properties are thought to enhance the immune systems regulatory response, indicating that it is an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent. Upon digestion, this whole food complex with its synergistic nutrients is rapidly assimilated and absorbed.

In particular, the sulfated polysaccharides are thought to support the immune systems antiviral response by activating lymphocyte production. This induces the formation of antibodies, which boosts T-cell production, inhibiting viral pathogenesis. For example, Dumontiaceae has been shown to support the body’s specific immune response to control and reduce the Herpes Simplex Virus population, stopping or lessening the occurrence and severity of outbreaks.

Red marine algae has been used by people as a food staple for thousands of years. In the Chinese Materica Medica, a volume dating back to 600 B.C., we find the following statement, Some algae are a delicacy fit for the most honorable guest, even for the king himself. (Porterfield, 1922). In China, Japan and the Indo-Pacific region, several dozen species of red algae are used.