The green-lipped mussel is anti-inflammatory, and its properties are good for joint pain and degenerative bone diseases, having few contraindications and side effects. It is native to New Zealand, although it can be found almost worldwide in countries like Spain and Chile, as well as throughout Europe and the United States.
Properties and Benefits of the Green-Lipped Mussel
It is a type of mollusk highly valued for its medicinal properties. The green-lipped mussel is scientifically named “Perna canaliculus” and belongs to the family of bivalve mollusks.
In nature, this animal feeds on particles it filters from the water while remaining on the substrate or anchored to an object, and can currently be found in many places around the world.
The difference with other types of mussels is that this variety, the green, has beneficial effects on the human body. So, we can say that the properties of the green-lipped mussel are:
- Anti-inflammatory
- For treating rheumatoid arthritis.
- Eliminating joint pain like in the knees, hips, wrists, and elbows.
- Anti-asthma.
- Antiallergic.
Properties as a Home Remedy for Arthritis
Perhaps the greatest usefulness of this type of bivalve mollusk, known in some parts of South America as “Choros,” is being a powerful anti-inflammatory, a characteristic that makes it ideal for inclusion in the diet of patients with joint pain.
The properties of the green-lipped mussel for osteoarthritis and as a home remedy for arthritis help relieve discomfort caused by the deterioration of cartilage and tissues connected to it.
Normally, when the patient does not find symptomatic relief, they start looking for a medicinal supplement, classified as food, to help alleviate joint pain.
It should be noted that it is not an alternative to medication, but rather a complement, an adjunct to pharmacological treatment.
Benefits for Asthma
While something similar happens as with people with arthritis, the green mussel offers advantages for people with allergies and asthma.
Studies indicate that it is beneficial for reducing the incidence of allergies, improving the quality of life for people with asthma. However, caution should be taken with this information, as further studies are needed to conclusively determine if it truly works for atopic asthma.
Contraindications
- Allergy to mussels.
- Shellfish intolerance.
- Treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Breastfeeding.
- Pregnancy.
- Asthma medication.
- Antihistamines.
- Corticosteroids.
- Liver disease.
If you take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), you should avoid consuming it. Taking green-lipped mussel has contraindications in this case, as its effects could intensify those of anti-inflammatory medications.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should be cautious as there are no studies involving people in these situations. Therefore, it is recommended not to include it as a dietary supplement during the months of pregnancy or the period you are breastfeeding.
If you have asthma and need treatment, you should consult your doctor as the composition of the green-lipped mussel is an antagonist of leukotriene receptors.
It may also affect the immune system, so it is not recommended alongside anti-allergic or antihistamine medications.
Side Effects
- Intestinal gas.
- Stomach pain.
- Nausea.
- Rash.
- Fluid retention.
- Gout.
- Pulmonary dysfunction.
- Suffocation.
- Toxic hepatitis.
- Neurotoxic poisoning.
It should be mentioned that most side effects of the green-lipped mussel occur in cases of shellfish allergies. In this case, you should never take it, as you would have an allergic reaction of varying degrees depending on your intolerance.
Regarding gout from its consumption, it is known that excess shellfish increases uric acid in the blood, which should be avoided in the long term. However, if consumed in moderation, following the instructions on the label and proper usage, there is no issue.
Neurotoxic poisoning is related to specimens with toxic residues, being a very rare condition as with most foods. Nevertheless, it must always be pointed out that certain animals sold as food products must undergo the appropriate tests and follow the regulations of the Ministry of Health.
If you have asthma, you should consult your specialist as there have been cases of toxic hepatitis from consuming mussels in the form of a nutritional supplement.
Shark Cartilage, Willow, and Green-Lipped Mussel
There are different products that include these three elements, as the combination of all of them produces a powerful medicinal effect.
Shark cartilage is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is often used as an aid in the treatment of diseases, as it contains a wide variety of active ingredients such as glucosamine sulfate and cartilage-regenerating substances. However, it should be consumed in moderation, as the contraindications of shark cartilage are extensive.
Willow bark is rich in salicin, an active ingredient very similar to salicylic acid, which has analgesic properties to relieve pain. It acts in a way very similar to aspirin, so its consumption should be done in case you are not taking any medication that contains it. However, these effects can be very beneficial when combined with the anti-inflammatory action.
Can it only be bought in New Zealand?
Although it is originally from there, the New Zealand green-lipped mussel is an endemic species, and today you can buy it anywhere in the world.
In Spain, you can purchase it as a dietary and nutritional supplement in health stores and online shops, with its sale authorized in nearly all parts of the world, making it relatively inexpensive.
Similarities with MSM and Glucosamine ….
While it is different from Methylsulfonylmethane, it has similar properties. Its medicinal effects are soothing and anti-inflammatory, characteristics that make it an ideal product to combine.
It is common to find green mussel + shark cartilage sold together, and even with MSM or methylsulfonylmethane.
How to Take It
- Capsules: 2 to 3 capsules per day.
- Recommended daily dose: 1500 mg.
Ideally, you should spread the intake of green-lipped mussel capsules throughout the day. Take one capsule and swallow it with a large glass of water, preferably with meals to avoid some of the side effects from taking it on an empty stomach.
