The green lipped mussel, known scientifically as Perna canaliculus, is a type of shellfish that is native to New Zealand. This species of mussel has a dark brown or green shell with a brighter green lip around the edges. The green lipped mussel also only has one adductor muscle and is one of the largest species of mussels. The green lipped mussel is commonly consumed as an appetizer in sushi restaurants. According to USC Norris Cancer Hospital, this species of mussels contains a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which can promote some positive health benefits when consumed.
Inflammation
The most common benefit of consuming green lipped mussels is the high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. According to the Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health, the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, a study performed by the University of Helsinki in Finland revealed the components of green lipped mussels was an effective treatment for chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.
Asthma
The consumption of green lipped mussels can also treat the symptoms associated with asthma. A study performed by the Pavlov Medical University in St. Petersburg, Russia revealed that subjects that were exposed to the lipid extract from green lipped mussel experienced a significant decrease in daytime wheezing, a decrease in the concentration of exhaled hydrogen peroxide, and and increase in morning peak expiratory flow than subjects who were not exposed to the lipid extract.
Stomach Ailments
The consumption of green lipped mussels can also be an effective treatment for some stomach ailments such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. According to PubMed.gov, consumption of green lipped mussels was proven to dramatically reduce the ulcerative harm done to the stomach by several non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in rats and pigs.
References
- PubMed.gov: Omega-3 fatty acids in inflammation and autoimmune diseases
- PubMed.gov: Evaluating Complementary Therapies for Canine Osteoarthritis Part I: Green-lipped Mussel (Perna canaliculus)
- USC Norris Cancer Hospital: Green-Lipped Mussel
- Drugs.com: New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel
- European Respiratory Journal: Treatment of asthma with lipid extract of New Zealand green-lipped mussel: a randomised clinical trial
- PubMed.gov: Gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties of green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) preparation
Member Comments