What is Green Lipped Mussel Extract and Why Should You Start Using It?

What is green lipped mussel extract? Unless you're an Australian or New Zealand citizen or a real seafood lover, you may have never heard about this shellfish or the dietary supplements obtained from it until now.

Scientifically named Perna canaliculus, this species of seafood is found in New Zealand waters and it's currently considered one of the most complete sources of nutrients. Rich in proteins, in complex carbohydrates, vitamins and fatty acids, green lipped mussels are efficient in ameliorating certain ailments, in restoring the internal equilibrium of the body and maintaining a good health state.

These health benefits can be achieved by consuming either raw shellfish or dietary supplements made from New Zealand mussels. The difference is that mussel supplements have lower risks of generating side effects, as they are decontaminated and processed through various technologies that preserve their ingredients and enhance their health benefits.

So what is green lipped mussel extract? The best answer is the most complete dietary supplement available on the market, suitable for people with certain illnesses but also for those with good health states, who are interested in increasing their energy levels or improving their resistance to pathogens.

But how does this extract look like? Is it similar to fish oil? Does it have a particular taste or smell? Is the extract obtained from New Zealand shellfish safe for anyone? Let's take each of these questions and try to answer as simple as possible.

What is green lipped mussel extract's appearance?

There are two main forms of extracts obtained from these shellfish, each of them looking differently: the powders obtained from this seafood are usually free of colorants and preservatives thus they have a yellowish-brown color. Being obtained from freshly harvested mussels or frozen-dried shellfish, these powders have a more or less pronounced odor and they have the specific seafood taste.

The second type of green lipped mussel extract is the oil, usually processed into yellow or brown gelified capsules. Although containing lower amounts of New Zealand mussel extract, these capsules also have the typical smell but they may taste a little differently than powders, as they usually contain some additives meant to maintain their appearance, which can modify their taste.

Although GLM capsules look pretty similar to fish oil ones, these two dietary supplement have completely different properties and health benefits, New Zealand mussels being - without any doubt - more health efficient than any other type of seafood.

What is green lipped mussel extract's primary indication?

The answer to this question is pretty clear to both scientists and patients: arthritis and joint pain represent the main target for green lipped mussel dietary supplements. Still, this doesn't mean people suffering from other conditions can't benefit from these products.

Due to their particular composition, mixing Omega-3 fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans, complex carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and vitamins, these shellfish are extremely valuable for people with nutritional deficiencies, as well as for those with low immunity levels. Then, asthma sufferers may benefit from New Zealand mussel extracts as these products are able to reduce the inflammation of the airways, eliminating the symptoms of this ailment.