Gigartina stellata/kappaphycus alvarezii extract

Kappaphycus alvarezii extract is an extract obtained from the algae of the same name that grows in the subtidal zone (below the low tide line) of East Asia, the Pacific Ocean, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia and the Caribbean. Another alga, Gigartina stellata, has been added to this extract.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• Gigartina stellata/Kappaphycus alvarezii - These are the scientific names of the two species of red marine algae.

Description of raw materials used in production

• Gigartina stellata alga - A species of red marine alga.
• Kappaphycus alvarezii alga - Another species of red marine alga, also known as "cotton seaweed" due to its texture.

Synthesis process

• Harvesting of the algae - The algae are collected from the sea or grown in aquaculture facilities.
• Extraction - The algae undergo an extraction process (often using water or organic solvents) to obtain the active ingredients.
• Purification - The extract is then purified to remove any impurities.
• Concentration and drying - The purified extract can be concentrated and dried to produce a powder product or kept in liquid form.

What it is used for and where

Medical

Several studies have dealt with Kappaphycus algae as a functional food proving that this algae can reverse the metabolic syndrome through selective inhibition of obesogenic gut bacteria and promotion of gut bacteria that improve the healthy state of the human body, may be able to slow down the growth rate of cancer cells .

Other notable applications of this algae include its use to reduce cholesterol and for its antiviral properties.

Cosmetics

Skin protectant. It creates a protective barrier on the skin to defend it from harmful substances, irritants, allergens, pathogens that can cause various inflammatory conditions. These products can also improve the natural skin barrier and in most cases more than one is needed to achieve an effective result.

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

Applications

• Gelling and Thickening Agents - Used in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food products as gelling and thickening agents.
• Hydration - The extracts may offer moisturizing properties, making them suitable for skincare products.
• Antioxidants - These extracts can have antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from free radicals.
• Protective - They can form a film on the skin, offering a protective barrier against external agents.
• Food Industry - Kappaphycus alvarezii is a primary source of carrageenan, a food additive used as a stabilizer and thickener.

Safety

Ingredient considered safe.