Lithothamnion

Lithothamnion is a small red algae with calcified ramifications of a thickness of 2 to 3 mm and that can reach a length of approximately 8 cm. It looks a lot like coral, but is very fragile, irregular in shape, and grows very slowly.

Latin name

Lithothamnium calcareum L.

Origin

It is found in the North Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the Channel, and down to the Mediterranean Sea, at a depth of approximately 30 m.

Used part

The thallus (the organs that resemble the leaves and the stems of the algae)

Active components

Calcium (calcium carbonate): neutralises gastric juices and is an important source of calcium.

Minerals (including magnesium, iron and sodium): this algae supplies the body with important minerals.

Usage

This algae is used for the calcium carbonate stored in its cell walls. Along with other calcareous algae, lithothamnium has long been used in agriculture as a natural fertilised to enrich the soil and remove its acidity. To this end, the algae is dredged from the sea bed, dried and then ground to a powder. Maerl is also used to feed cows and pigs, as well as for filtration and to correct the acidity of drinking water. In the past, it was used as a vermifuge, but it is currently an ingredient in several cosmetic products, such as masks, creams, lotions, soaps and gels. Due to its high bioavailability, this algae is an excellent alternative source of calcium. For this reason, it is used as a dietary supplement to prevent the loss of mineral bone density in the case of osteoporosis and to neutralise the excessive formation of gastric juices in the case of acid reflux and heartburn.

Bibliographical references

The health claims that feature on our website in relation to the plants contained in our products are compliant with the list of health claims awaiting final assessment by the Community authorities (cf. website of the European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/nuhclaims/). However, they may be subject to modification following their assessment by the national competent authorities.

The health claims relating to other nutrients or substances contained in our products that feature on our site are compliant with Regulation No. 432/2012 of the Commission of 16 May 2012 which establishes a list of authorised health claims authorised in relation to food products, other than those in reference to the reduction of the risk of disease as well as community-based development and child health (cf. website of the European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/nuhclaims/).