1. Sea Moss: The Nutraceutical Powerhouse
     
    Sea moss, which comes in 3 varieties, Chondrus crispus also known as Irish moss, Eucheuma Cottonii and Gracillaria. is rapidly gaining popularity in the health and wellness community as a potent nutraceutical. This marine plant, commonly found along the rocky Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America, offers a rich array of nutrients that provide various health benefits.
     
    Sea moss is primarily harvested from the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of Ireland, Jamaica, and parts of North America. The seaweed is collected, sun-dried, and often sold in its raw form or as a gel, powder, or capsule.
     
    Sea moss is a nutrient-dense superfood and contains over 102 minerals and vitamins required by the body.

    It contains:
    – Vitamins: A, C, E, K, and a variety of B vitamins.
    – Minerals: Calcium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, iron, iodine, and zinc.
    – Antioxidants: Beta-carotene and other carotenoids.
    – Amino acids: Including taurine, which supports muscle function and cellular health.
    – Polysaccharides: Like natural carrageenan (this is the good stuff – not to be confused with its synthetic relative poligeenan which you’ll find in most processed foods under the same name), which have been shown to support gut health and immune function.
     

     
    Nutritional Benefits of Sea Moss

    1. Supports Thyroid Health: Sea moss is rich in iodine, essential for proper thyroid function, which regulates metabolism and energy levels.
    2. Boosts Immunity: The antioxidants and vitamins in sea moss help bolster the immune system, protecting against illnesses and infections.
    3. Promotes Digestive Health: The high fibre content and prebiotic properties support a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion.
    4. Enhances Skin Health: Vitamins and minerals in sea moss contribute to skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and support wound healing. Excellent in winter to support dry skin and in summer for that healthy glow and reduce sunburn damage.
    5. Improves Energy Levels: Rich in iron and B vitamins, sea moss helps combat fatigue and promotes overall energy.
    • Sea moss has been used to support fat metabolism, regulate appetite and modulate the gut bacteria for a happier microbiome.

    Sea Moss Everyday Use

    • Smoothies and Juices: Add a tablespoon of sea moss gel or a teaspoon of sea moss powder to your morning smoothie or juice for an easy nutritional boost.
    • Soups and Stews: Mix sea moss gel into soups, stews, or broths. It acts as a natural thickener while adding extra nutrients.
    • Baking: Use sea moss gel as a vegan substitute for eggs in baking recipes, providing moisture and binding properties.
    • Face Masks: Apply sea moss gel directly to the skin or mix with other ingredients like honey and aloe vera for a rejuvenating face mask.
    • Salads and Dressings: Incorporate sea moss into homemade salad dressings or sprinkle sea moss powder on salads for added texture and nutrients.
    • Can be used in raw deserts, dips etc as a natural vegan gelatin & binder.

    Or better yet just eat it straight out of the jar !!  

     
    At The Health Emporium we stock Nature’s Farmer Sea brand gels ( which use an organically farmed Eucheuma Cottonii for a milder flavour ) in the fridge with a great assortment of flavours to help support immunity, mood, energy and more.

    We also have our sea moss based smoothie called UNDER THE SEA MOSS, featuring sea moss, butterfly petals, blue spirulina, astragalus, elder berry, macadamias, fresh mint, banana and coconut milk. 
     

    crucial for maintaining healthy nerve cells and supporting brain function. Sources include whole grains, eggs, dairy products, and leafy greens.
  2. Magnesium: Important for nerve function and brain health. Sources include nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables, and whole grains.
  3. Choline: Found in eggs, liver, and soybeans, choline is essential for brain health and memory.
  4. Curcumin: The active compound in turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may support cognitive health.

* Find all of these products in the store – we have a wide variety of canned fresh and frozen fish, fresh organic produce and all your staples plus a wide selection of quality natural supplements including vegan options, amino acids and protein powders, liver capsules and powder, huge selection of collagen powders and capsules and electrolytes to support your ongoing needs.

Naturopathic Care and Herbal Support
Naturopathic care focuses on holistic approaches, including dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and the use of herbs to support health during perimenopause.

  1. Black Cohosh: Commonly used to relieve hot flashes and night sweats. It is believed to have oestrogen-like effects.
  2. Dong Quai: Often called “female ginseng,” this herb can help balance hormone levels and reduce menopausal symptoms.
  3. Red Clover: Contains phytoestrogens which may help alleviate hot flashes and improve bone health.
  4. Ahiflower: A rich source of omega fatty acids, particularly omega-3 (SDA) and omega-6 (GLA), which support overall hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and promote skin health.
  5. Chasteberry (Vitex): Helps balance progesterone levels, reducing PMS-like symptoms such as breast tenderness and mood swings.
  6. Ashwagandha/Withania: An adaptogen that can help manage stress, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety.
  7. Ginseng: May help with mood swings and sleep disturbances by supporting overall energy and resilience.
  8. Licorice Root: Contains compounds that mimic oestrogen and can help balance hormones, but should be used cautiously as it can raise blood pressure.
  9. Maca Root: Believed to support hormonal balance and increase energy and libido.
  10. Saffron: Known for its mood-enhancing properties, saffron can help alleviate mood swings, depression, and anxiety during perimenopause.
  11. Shatavari: An Ayurvedic herb that supports female reproductive health, helps balance hormones, and can reduce symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
  12. Ginkgo Biloba: Known for improving memory and cognitive function, it can help with mild forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating.
  13. Bacopa Monnieri: An adaptogenic herb traditionally used to enhance memory and cognition.
  14. Rosemary: Contains compounds that may improve memory and concentration.
  15. Lions mane: supports cognitive function and helps alleviate mild memory issues and difficulty concentrating.

Lifestyle Adjustments
In addition to nutritional and herbal interventions, lifestyle changes can significantly impact the management of perimenopausal symptoms:

  1. Regular Exercise: Helps maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve mood and sleep quality. Incorporating Pilates and yoga can be particularly beneficial:
    • Pilates: Focuses on strengthening the core, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall body awareness. It helps maintain muscle mass and bone density, which are crucial during perimenopause.
    • Yoga: Promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves flexibility and strength. Yoga practices that incorporate breathing techniques and meditation can help manage mood swings, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
  2. Stress Management: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
  3. Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep routine, creating a restful environment, and avoiding stimulants can improve sleep quality.
  4. Mental Stimulation: Engaging in activities that challenge the brain can help maintain cognitive function.
  5. Social Engagement: Staying socially active can support mental and emotional health.

 
While Perimenopause is a natural phase of life, it comes with challenges that can be managed through a combination of proper nutrition, herbal support, and lifestyle adjustments. Consulting with a healthcare provider, particularly one knowledgeable in naturopathic and nutritional medicine, can provide personalised strategies to ease this transition and enhance overall well-being.
 
Chat to our friendly Naturopath Nic to find out which herbs or supplements are right for you or book a consult to get a personalised treatment plan to support your own personal health journey . Our Clinic Dispensary and store has a wide variety of products that will help support your needs but always check with a health care professional before taking  anything listed. Nic is in-store Mondays 8-4 and Tuesdays 8-3 and is available for private consults on Fridays by appointment only. 
 
Nic has a special interest in Peri and menopausal support, gut health and mental health.