Written by:
Leah Wingenroth
Japanese seaweed, selected because of its high concentration of marine polyphenols, has been scientifically proven to reduce sleep latency and is known for its calming properties and support of restful, restorative sleep. Our Recovery + Sleep oil blend with Japanese seaweed extract encourages a night of continuous and unbroken deep sleep. Because of its polyphenol content, seaweed has been shown to promote sleep in a way similar to lavender and chamomile: by stimulating GABA receptors in the brain. Because the polyphenols “have been considered as major sedative-hypnotic phytochemicals,” it has calming properties that can support restful sleep and decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.
Seaweed has several other benefits, including preventing wrinkles, sun spots, and premature skin ageing. One study found that using brown algae on hairless mice helped protect their skin from harmful UV rays (10). Though most notable for its use in cooking, seaweed also has calming properties that can support restful sleep.
Iodine is a trace mineral that is essential for the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland. It helps to make the thyroid hormones that help to regulate the body’s metabolic rate. Seaweed, along with fish and shellfish, are all excellent sources of iodine. Other foods, such as some vegetables, cereals and grains, can also contain iodine if grown in the soil near the coastline containing iodine leached from the sea.