Sea Weed Therapy: Medicinal and Cosmeceutical Value, A Review

Seaweeds are marine algae having unique structure and biochemical composition. It can be used highly for its multi-functional properties in the form of food, energy, medicine and cosmetics. Many metabolites isolated from these marine algae have been shown to possess bioactive efforts. Among the different compounds with functional properties, antioxidants are the most widely studied. Moreover, the important role of antioxidants in human health has been demonstrated, thus increasing the interest in such products and their demand by consumers. Marine algae serve as important resources for bioactive natural products. Seaweeds are a good source of antimicrobial compounds, antioxidants and other bioactive compounds. There is an interest to utilize these products as nutraceuticals and in functional foods. Compounds with cytostatic, antiviral, anthelmintic, antifungal and antibacterial activities have been detected in green, brown and red algae. Considering their great taxonomic diversity, investigations related to the search of new biologically active compounds from algae can be seen as almost unlimited field. In the domain of beauty and cosmetology, surprisingly beneficial results have been seen in certain treatments with seaweed, in case of falling hair, dandruff, acne skin eruption, cellulitis, slimming and rejuvenation of skin. The beneficial properties in the sphere of modern medicinal culture, is not only in the achievement of cures, but also in the fact that, being a natural herbal therapy, the harmful effect of modern day drugs can be eliminated. Seaweed contains all the active elements found in the live cells, like nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, calcium, potassium, magnesium etc. Certain elements in seaweed allow the skin to assimilate phosphorus and calcium, which stimulate the skin cells. Seaweed is effectively used in the treatment of the rejuvenation of cells and tissue, broken nails, cellulitis, dermatosis, acne falling hairs, beauty mask etc.