2. The growing interest of consumers to alternative and contemporary medicine has placed the
green-lipped mussels into the center of attention. The green-lipped mussel, or perna
canaliculus, is a bivalve mollusk that is indigenous to New Zealand and is sourced mainly
below the intertidal zone at a depth of around 33 feet. It is different from other mussel
species in that it has brownish or green shells with brown marks. All varieties have a
distinguishing green lip around the inner edge of the shell, and thus the name. This bivalve
mollusk is said to have medicinal uses.
Green Lipped Mussel Benefits
In the 1960s, researchers from the United States and Great Britain conducted experiments
to ascertain if this type of mussel can offer a cure for cancer. Sad to say, the extract failed to
eliminate malignant cells. Nonetheless, researchers accidentally figured out that patients in
the study reported that they had improvements in joint symptoms like reduction in joint
pain and stiffness after using the said mussel. This motivated researchers to investigate the
potential use of this shellfish for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis treatment. Another
use of green lipped mussel supplement is that it can improve asthma symptoms like daytime
wheezing. It also helps improve the breathing of asthma sufferers. It is believed that the
extract is made up of chemicals that help lower inflammation.
The green lipped mussel is available in freeze-dried, ground, and capsule forms. The
appropriate dose is determined by several variables such as how old the patient is, your
state of health, and the health problem you want to deal with. At present, there is little
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3. information relating to the right dose for this alternative treatment. If you want to take this
supplement, make sure to look at the instructions on the product labels.
Although safe in general, the chance of side effects happening is not completely eliminated.
Some of the side effects experienced by people who have used it include diarrhea, nausea,
and a feeling of bloatedness. There are also reported rare circumstances where it is said to
result in liver problems. Women who are pregnant or those who wish to have a baby soon
should avoid using this supplement because there is some evidence that it might slow the
development of the unborn child and delay labor and birth. There is no research showing
that the supplement is safe to use during breast feeding, so it is smarter to be on the safe side
by not making use of it. Patients who are allergic to shellfish and those with known liver
impairment must avoid using these preparations.
Before buying this supplement, make sure to talk to your doctor. By talking with your
physician, he can find out if you have existing health issues which contraindicate the use of
this supplement, or if alterations have to be made on how your health is being managed to
make sure that you will receive safe and coordinated care.
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