How Can Green Mussel Extract Treat Inflammed Joints?
April 14, 2010
What is Green Mussel Extract?
Green mussel is one of the terms often used to describe the large shellfish more commonly known as the New Zealand green-lipped mussel which is endemic to the seas surrounding New Zealand. The green-lipped mussel oil extract or powder produced by the green mussels has been known by the indigenous peoples of New Zealand, the Maori, to have extraordinary anti-inflammatory properties. For those suffering from asthma, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, joint mobility conditions, crohns disease, or any other inflammatory condition, green mussel extract offers a natural alternative treatment to that offered by NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Before reading further … are you …
Looking for green mussel testimonials? Check out my genuine personal experience of using green mussel extract and the astonishing results I achieved in just 3 months of continuous use. Maybe you’re ready to purchase – but not sure what brand is right for you? There is only one brand I would recommend you buy – read why here!
Let’s continue …
The scientific name for this large bivalve mollusc is Perna canaliculus, but the New Zealand green lipped mussel has many other similar names such as green mussel, greenshell mussel, greenlip mussel or even, simply, New Zealand mussels. The powerful health benefits of the the green lipped mussel
cannot be ignored with numerous scientific studies appearing in recent years. These have isolated the unique active ingredients which give the green mussels their anti-inflammatory properties. There is no other shellfish, or indeed, any other plant or creature on the planet that has these special combinations of fatty acids (polysaccharides). Green mussels contain polysaccharides which are linked to the restoration of degenerative joint conditions.
What is the history of the Green Mussel?
For centuries green mussels have been part of the staple diet of the Maori people of New Zealand. There are claims by some current promoters of green-lipped mussel extract that to this day the Maori do not suffer from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. Sadly, this is not true. Maori people are heavily exposed to the ills of western culture just like everybody else and suffer similarly. Having said that, they still do eat more green mussels than the average person and, understand how to limit the affects of arthritis naturally by consuming large quantities of green lipped mussels on a regular basis. The health benefits of this consumption can be dramatic (see my personal experience of using green lipped mussel).
Green mussel health benefits have been scientifically acknowledged for over 35 years. The industry was first established back in the late 1960′s when cultured mussel farming began to meet the local demand. In the mid 1970′s green mussel extract was produced to meet the growing new health supplement market both within New Zealand and around the world. The word was spreading as to the effectiveness of green mussel powder in treating inflammatory conditions.
In 1981, following lobbying from US drug companies who were threatened by the popularity of the health supplement, US lawmakers banned the importation of green lipped mussel extract, destroying the export market virtually overnight.
The ban was lifted in the 1990′s – green mussel extract can now be imported and sold in the USA again provided no unproven or misleading claims are made as to it’s effectiveness in treating arthritis, osteoarthritis, joint pain and any of the other known inflammatory conditions.
What is the composition of Green Mussels?
Green mussels consist of:
- Protein (as amino acids) 60 – 62 %
- Complex Carbohydrates 12 – 13 %
- Chondroitin Sulfates 11 – 12 %
- Lipids 4 – 5 %
- Minerals 5 – 6 %
Green Mussel Health Benefits?
The most widely recognised health benefits of using New Zealand green mussel extract are:
- Joint pain relief
- Reduced inflammation
Green mussel can also improve blood circulation, the immune system, fertility prospects, nerve cell function, and strengthen teeth and bones.
Health conditions which are known to respond to green-mussel extract include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Sports Related Injuries
- Lyme Disease
- Inflammatory Skin Conditions
- Connective Tissue Repair
- Asthma
- Bowel Disease
- Menstrual Pain
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Free Radical Scavenger
- Protects Gastrointestinal System
Pet products and supplements containing green mussel extract are becoming increasingly common in the treatment of debilitating arthritic conditions in both cats and dogs.
Green Mussel scientific research?
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Studies support green-lipped mussel’s anti-inflammatory properties
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Study hints at green-lipped mussel’s ‘original’s omega-3 action
Green Mussel - side effects or adverse reactions?
Green mussels in their powdered or oil forms are nothing more than a processed whole food. The product is completely natural. Side effects or adverse reactions are rare, but are well documented. Just as some people are allergic to certain foods – so some people will be allergic to certain shellfish such as green mussels.
Some known side effects or adverse reactions to green mussels include:
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- gout
- skin rashes
- nausea
- flatulence / intestinal gases
- liver problems (extremely rare)
- hepatitis (only one case ever reported – related to the freeze dried powder only)
- allergic reactions for people who know they are allergic to shellfish ( related to the freeze dried powder only)
- fluid retention
It is advisable not to take green mussel whilst pregnant or lactating.
Green lipped mussel is a natural whole food supplement and, as such, it’s health benefits far out weigh any minimal side effects.
Who is the most trusted supplier of Green Mussel Extract?
If you haven’t already, I do suggest you read “my story” – my personal experience and views of using green mussel extract and the astonishing results I achieved in just 3 months. This will give you a good insight into the extraordinary properties of green mussels and how quickly they can benefit you over and above other natural anti-inflammatory supplements. My experience convinced me there is really only one quality brand that I feel I can trust. The way in which the this company processes its raw mussels is what gives it a powerful edge over all other brands available.
When purchasing green mussel ( both powder or green mussel oil), make sure that the brand you choose ships your purchase in a timely manner, lists all active ingredients on it’s web site and offers a full money back guarantee at the very least.
I recommend Xtend-Life Ltd Green Lipped Mussel Powder ( and not a Seatone capsules pack) due, not only to the way in which it is processed, but also to the fact that I have personally used the product for more than 5 years with very satisfying results.
