Caution on a Natural Shingles Treatment – Red Marine Algae
Red Marine Algae Can Support the Immune System
Red marine algae have been widely used as a valuable food for thousands of years in
coastal regions around the world. They have a high nutritional content, including trace
minerals from the ocean. This group of algae is a rich source of vitamins, minerals,
proteins, complex carbohydrates, enzymes, essential fatty acids, fiber and trace
elements.
Besides their value as a food, red marine algae also provide health benefits as an
immune boosting marine herb. In particular, red marine algae can assist the body's
immune response to viruses. Some consider these algae to be one of the most
beneficial ocean vegetables in the world, which has caught the attention of the modern
scientific community for its immune supporting properties against skin disorders such as
herpes. In addition to antiviral properties, red marine algae have been useful in weight-
loss, lowering cholesterol and fat in the blood, and detoxifying and counteracting
degenerative conditions.
The immunomodulating properties of red marine derive from a class of natural products
called sulfated polysaccharides. These polysaccharides, which are long-chained
complex sugars, stimulate interferon production as well as the production of other anti-
tumor and immune-enhancing agents. These other agents include the main cells of the
immune system, the T cells and B cells. Because algae boost the immune system,
increase white blood cell count, and promote the growth of healthy intestinal microflora,
algae supplements are ideal for improving the immune system as a defense against
viruses.
Antiviral Activity of Red Marine Algae
Herpes has somewhat of a bad reputation; there are five types of herpes viruses that
are very common, causing conditions such as cold sores, shingles and chronic fatigue
or Epstein- Barr syndromes. Red marine algae help against all of these by
strengthening the immune system. These algae can also help t