Our seaweed

Historically, people have long used seaweed for food and crop fertilisation. The Japanese in particular have  elevated seaweed beyond a staple diet, with miso and sushi forming a significant part of the daily calorific intake. Closer to home, Welsh Laverbread and Irish Moss are part of the United Kingdom’s rich heritage, something we should all be proud of.

Going beyond the well-established use and benefits of seaweed as food and fertiliser, it is common knowledge that seaweeds possess many healing properties. Apart from containing an abundance of minerals, proteins, vitamins and trace elements, the anti-oxidant, anti-viral, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties of seaweed have been well documented. A number of recent studies have even highlighted the incredible potential for developing ground-breaking new medicinal applications for seaweed, including research into what promises to offer a new approach to cancer treatment.

Building on this ancient heritage and harnessing the known health benefits seaweed has to offer, Maiiro has created its secret blend of five ‘super’ seaweeds and rejuvenating oils - Kelpogen5™.

• Himanthalia Elongata or Thongweed

  One of the most common species of seaweed in the United Kingdom, which historically has been used extensively for food, and is also known as sea spaghetti.

  This seaweed contains high levels of calcium, iodine, magnesium and zinc. It also contains vitamin A, B1, B2, B7, B9, as well as significant amounts of vitamin C and E, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. The extract helps to moisturise and restore the skin’s delicate PH balance.

• Astaxanthin

  Although technically not a seaweed in its own right, but a pigment derived from seaweed, Astaxanthin is nature’s very own health and beauty store, this is the king when it comes to the seaweed rankings.

  Rich in carotenoids, it is by far the most effective anti-oxidant known, 6,000 times more powerful than vitamin C, 2,000 times stronger than resveratrol and quercetin and 300 times more powerful than Co-enzyme Q10. This ‘miracle’ extract helps to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, moisturising the skin and maintaining a youthful glow.

• Undaria Pinnitifida or Wakame

  This seaweed contains Fucoidan and Fucoxanthin and is a rich source of Eicosapentaenoic acid (Omega 3 fatty acid).

  Undaria also contains vitamin A (Beta Carotene), vitamin C, D, E and K, as well as high levels of Thiamine (vitamin B1) and Niacin (vitamin B3), which are know to boost skin and hair health. The extract’s strong anti-ageing properties are further supported by immune boosting minerals including magnesium, iron, potassium as well as trace elements.

• Laminaria Digitata or Oarweed

  Laminaria is the most iodine rich seaweed species known to man and also has a high mineral content, including magnesium and potassium, as well as iron, copper and zinc.

  It further contains vitamin B7 and D. The extract has significant hygroscopic qualities and contains Fucosis polymers, which interact with the skin to form a natural, protecting and moisturising barrier.

• Fucus Vesiculosis or Bladder Wrack

  Apart from making a tasty condiment, Bladder Wrack is known historically for its soothing properties, and has long been used as one of the main components in ‘Thalasso’ therapies.

  The extract has a high vitamin C and Alginic Acid content and is rich in minerals such as magnesium and potassium, supporting Kelpogen5’s anti-ageing and anti-viral properties.