Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

New Zealand Green Lipped Sea Mussel

Also known as: New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel, Greenshell Mussel, Perna canaliculus

Overview

The New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel, scientifically known as *Perna canaliculus*, is a bivalve mollusk that is native to the waters of New Zealand. This nutritional supplement is primarily recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it popular in managing conditions such as osteoarthritis and potentially asthma. The mussel is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chondroitin sulfate, and various nutrients. While there has been some interest in its therapeutic uses, the research remains mixed and lacks consistent quality, with many studies being small-scale or not rigorously designed.

Benefits

The primary benefits of New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel include its potential to reduce pain and improve function in individuals with osteoarthritis when used alongside conventional treatments. Some studies indicate a reduction in asthma symptoms and airway inflammation as well. However, the strength of evidence varies, and benefits might be more pronounced in individuals experiencing mild asthma or osteoarthritis. Timing for observed benefits may range from weeks to months. Limited data on effect sizes suggests clinical significance may differ across studies.

How it works

The anti-inflammatory properties of the New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel are primarily associated with its omega-3 fatty acid content, which plays a role in inhibiting the production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins, inflammatory mediators. It also affects joint health and airway inflammation by targeting and inhibiting the 5'-lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase pathways, leading to overall reduced inflammatory responses.

Side effects

New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel is generally considered safe and well tolerated, though some gastrointestinal side effects may occur, including nausea (greater than 5%) and flatulence. Less common adverse effects (1-5%) might include fluid retention and upset stomach, while rare effects (less than 1%) such as liver inflammation have been reported in specific cases. There can be drug interactions, particularly with anticoagulants and NSAIDs, warranting caution among those taking these medications. It's contraindicated for individuals with shellfish allergies, and its safety during pregnancy and lactation is not established.

Dosage

While the minimum effective dose of New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel is not well defined, optimal dosages typically involve lipid extracts or powdered forms, which vary by product. There’s no upper defined limit for safe consumption, and no specific timing has been established for intake. Generally, powdered forms are noted for better absorption. Freeze-drying helps retain nutrients, making it a preferred processing method. Further specific cofactor requirements have not been described.

FAQs

Is it safe to use New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel if I have a shellfish allergy?

No, it should be avoided if you have a shellfish allergy due to the risk of allergic reactions.

Can it be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Safety during pregnancy and lactation is not well studied, so it is advised to avoid using it in these situations.

What results can I expect from using this supplement?

Results can vary; some users report reduced inflammation and improved symptoms in conditions like arthritis and asthma.

Are there any known drug interactions?

Yes, it may interact with anticoagulants and NSAIDs, so consult a healthcare provider before use.

How long does it take to see benefits?

Benefits may begin to appear within weeks to months of consistent use.

Research Sources

https://versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/complementary-and-alternative-treatments/types-of-complementary-treatments/green-lipped-mussel/ – This source discusses complementary treatments for arthritis, highlighting the potential use of green-lipped mussel for pain relief, emphasizing the need for more rigorous studies.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/221902045_An_Evidence-Based_Systematic_Review_of_Green-Lipped_Mussel_Perna_canaliculus_by_the_Natural_Standard_Research_Collaboration – This systematic review assesses the evidence surrounding green-lipped mussel for its therapeutic effects, noting inconsistencies and calls for further research to establish firm conclusions.
https://publications.ersnet.org/content/erj/20/3/596 – A randomized controlled trial revealed that lipid extracts of green-lipped mussel could reduce symptoms of asthma, although the study's sample size was small.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16220229/ – This article reviews the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids found in green-lipped mussel, detailing the pathway interactions and potential health benefits.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/green-lipped-mussel – This resource provides a comprehensive overview of the green-lipped mussel, discussing its nutritional profile, potential health benefits, and side effects.