Although seaweed may not seem like much at first glance, don’t be fooled—this marine plant has been highly coveted for thousands of years. Rich in nutrients, seaweed contains cancer-fighting compounds and trace minerals that is said to heal the body and rejuvenate the skin.
With the help of modern science, we are learning that seaweed is far more valuable than we originally thought. People from all across the globe are now looking to incorporate seaweed into their diets and skincare routines.
Don’t believe the hype? Here are five mind-blowing facts about seaweed that might change your mind:
#1: Ancient Greeks Used It For Healing Purposes
Long before we were putting seaweed in our skincare lines, the Ancient Greeks were using it in their heated baths to draw out toxins from the body and rejuvenate their skin. This was known as Thalassotherapy (Thalasso is Greek for ‘sea’) and the Greeks believed it could restore good health and cure illness.
Today, many spas still offer thalassotherapy and use seaweed in their treatments to rejuvenate the body and achieve glowing skin. Seaweed contains many beneficial trace minerals such as Zinc, Calcium, Magnesium, Copper, and Iodide, which can be absorbed through the skin and will keep it resilient and elastic.
#2: Most of the World’s Oxygen Comes From Seaweed
The next time you inhale deeply, you may want to say a silent thanks to seaweed for the glorious oxygen that fills your lungs. According to researchers, roughly 70% of oxygen in the world is produced by species including phytoplankton, kelp, and algal plankton.
Rainforests make up 28% of oxygen production, while 2% comes from other sources. Crazy, right? It’s one of many reasons to protect our oceans and keep them healthy. If you want to help this important cause, an easy way to do so is by supporting the Marine Conservation Institute!
#3: It’s Not Just For Mermaids!
Have you ever seen a mermaid with less than perfect skin? Of course not! That’s because mermaids are surrounded by one of the best organic skincare ingredients available today—seaweed! Seaweed is rich in vitamins and minerals that help keep your skin looking supple and radiant. The anti-inflammatory properties in seaweed can combat acne and alleviate symptoms of rosacea, while its abundance of antioxidants act as powerful anti-agers.
It’s no wonder why mermaids look forever young. If you want to steal their “trade secret” to ageless skin, you can Pre-order our Over Makeup Sunscreen Facial Mist, ZINC IT OVER™, which is Broad Spectrum, Cruelty Free & Vegan and contains all-natural ingredients, including a very special type of seaweed. Your skin will thank you and you will quickly see why it is the best Zinc sunscreen on the market!
#4: There Are Over 12,000 Species of Seaweeds
Seaweed doesn’t refer to a single plant—rather, it is a common name for thousands of marine plants and algae. Although it lacks a formal term, many group seaweed into three categories: red, green, and brown algae.
To date, scientists have discovered over 12,000 species of seaweed, many of which have valuable uses. As you now know, it’s an ingredient found in many of the best anti-aging products today and widely used for cosmetic purposes.
Seaweed is also considered a superfood and can provide you with many health benefits. From lowering your risk of breast cancer to fighting off deadly diseases, seaweed is essentially the kale of the sea. That is something we all can use, right?!
Be Healthy has even more amazing facts and figures about seaweed that will blow your mind. Check them out here!
#5: It Tastes Like Bacon!
Are you thinking about going meatless? We’ve got good news for you. Researchers at Oregon State University grew a strain of seaweed that tastes like bacon when it’s fried. Not only does it taste delicious, but this patented strain of seaweed has twice the nutritional value of kale. The discovery, made in 2015, has opened doors in the vegan and vegetarian market. This seaweed bacon is not just vegan-friendly, but also gluten-free, low carbohydrate, organic, and sustainable. We now have a delicious and healthy alternative to bacon, all thanks to seaweed!
Now that you know the vast benefits and uses of seaweed, how will you be utilizing it? Let us know in the comments!
