Drink Up!!! Seaweed Tea Benefits and Risks

Seaweed tea has an extremely potent vitamin and mineral content which can treat indigestion, respiratory problems, ulcers, and even fight viruses.

Since seaweed contains the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, it can also be an alternative source of omega-3 for vegetarians and vegans.

Minerals/Vitamins in Seaweed- Iodine, Sulphur, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, sodium, magnesium, chlorine, bromine, protein and vitamins A, D, E, K.

Respiratory Illness- Since seaweed tea is a sputum remover, it breaks down mucus membranes to clear out the respiratory system. It can be used to treat bronchitis as well as other viruses by strengthening the lungs and the immune system.

Heart and Gut Health- Since seaweed contains the digestive enzymes such as carrageenan, drinking seaweed in a tea can support a fast metabolism and reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke through preventing uncontrolled blood clots. Drinking seaweed infusions also help the gastrointestinal system because it inhibits stomach acid (alkalinizing).

Kombu specifically is best for digestive issues.

In more detail: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2920542/

Ulcers and Healing Injuries-

Ingesting seaweed accelerates healing in our bodies. This plant has the ability to reduce swelling, as it acts as an anti-inflammatory. It is rich in nutrients and sulfur containing amino acids that help protect joints against infection that can lead to future issues like arthritis.

Traditionally, seaweed is used to relieve stomach upset and vomiting caused by inflammation.

Anti-Viral-

Sulfated polysaccharides from seaweed have shown high antiviral properties in fighting viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus, herpes simplex virus and more. This occurs because the amino acids in seaweed work to regenerate damaged cells.

Potential Risks

-Too much iodine can cause thyroid problems. It is recommended not to consume more than 3g of iodine especially along side of goitrogenic foods like tofu and cruciferous vegetable.

-Too much carrageenan can inflame the gut and have opposite affects. Irish moss has the highest carrageenan concentration.

-Although rare, seaweed from the pacific can possibly be affected by Fukushima radiation.

-Heavy metals are also incredibly strong in seaweed. Unsafe types of seaweed are; Hijiki (in general), laver/seatangle/sea mustard/hijiki/gulfweed from the South Korea coast, and H. fusiforme from Spain out of Japan/China/Korea/Chile. The best way to tell is to by seaweed from producers that have tested the metal levels of their seaweed.

You can check here Maine Coast Sea Vegetables – Product Testing

Seaweed Coffee

Not only are seaweed tea and coffee drinks becoming a trend, but people are also starting to make compostable cups with seaweed lining instead of plastic. Seaweed cups can compost in four-six weeks and are cost efficient.