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ICAR Commercializes Seaweed-Based Nutraceutical Products

India’s Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), under the aegis of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has brought to market two noteworthy nutraceutical products based on seaweed. Known as CadalminTM Immunalgin extract (CadalminTM IMe) and CadalminTM Antihypercholesterolemic extract (CadalminTM ACe), these products have been developed with an eco-friendly ‘green’ technology to potentially enhance anti-viral immunity and battle hypercholesterolemia or dyslipidemia (an imbalance of cholesterol levels). They have also been posited as possible defenses against complications arising in the post-Covid scenario, with properties that fight the delta variant of the SARS CoV-2 virus. Seaweeds, a form of ancient marine algae devoid of roots, stems, and leaves, are key components of marine ecosystems. They also provide nutritional advantages and medicinal properties, boasting anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents that could hold the cure for cancer.

The Nutraceutical Revolution: CadalminTM Immunalgin and CadalminTM Antihypercholesterolemic Extracts

The ICAR-CMFRI has succeeded in launching two significant nutraceutical products derived from seaweed – the CadalminTM Immunalgin and CadalminTM Antihypercholesterolemic extracts. These innovative products have been created utilizing green technology, known for its eco-friendly attributes. The CadalminTM IMe is designed to bolster antiviral immunity while the CadalminTM ACe aims to tackle high cholesterol or dyslipidemia, which is an imbalance in cholesterol levels.

Potential Remedy Against Post-Covid Complications

In the wake of the global health crisis triggered by the novel Coronavirus, the importance of robust immunity has been magnified. Interestingly, these seaweed-based products are being touted as potential antidotes to post-Covid complications. They have proven their mettle by showing antiviral properties against SARS CoV-2’s delta variant, one of the most virulent forms of the virus.

Marine Marvels: The Role of Seaweeds

Seaweeds hold a significant place in marine ecosystems due to their unique structure and composition. They are essentially primitive marine algae that do not have traditional plant components like roots, stems, and leaves. Yet, they deliver indispensable ecological functions, providing habitat and food for a variety of marine life.

Nutritional Powerhouses with Medicinal Benefits

Besides their critical ecological role, seaweeds offer numerous dietary benefits. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health and wellness. Their medicinal properties are equally noteworthy. Studies have revealed that seaweeds contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents. These natural components can help counter inflammation and microbial infections, offering a safe, natural alternative to synthetic drugs.

CadalminTM Extracts: Harnessing the Anti-Cancer Potential of Seaweeds

Research into the therapeutic potential of seaweeds has led to some promising findings. Some seaweeds contain bioactive compounds with potential cancer-fighting effects. The CadalminTM Immunalgin and CadalminTM Antihypercholesterolemic extracts capitalize on this attribute, representing a vital step forward in harnessing the power of nature for healing and disease prevention.

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