Algin is a family of compounds derived from seaweed, used in pharmaceuticals, food products, and folk medicine. It is a binding agent and demulcent in tablets, an emulsifier and thickener in foods, and has potential health benefits such as cholesterol-lowering and glucose metabolism modulation. No side effects have been identified, but pregnant or lactating women should avoid it.
Algin is a broad term that encompasses an entire family of compounds that includes allinates, alginic acids, and others, all of which are derived from alginin, a gel-like substance derived from certain types of seaweed. Several species of brown algae found throughout the world produce algin, and algin and its derivatives are used for a variety of purposes, including medicines and food products. Algin is also sometimes used in various applications in folk medicine and herbal remedies.
The most common use of algin is in the pharmaceutical industry, where it is often used as a binding agent in the manufacture of tablets. It is also used in the manufacture of some types of tablets as a binding agent and demulsifier. A demulcent is a soothing substance, usually gelatinous or mucilaginous, used to coat tissues that have a mucous membrane to soothe them. Demulcents help make throat lozenges more soothing by reducing irritation.
In the food industry, algin is sometimes used as a packaging material for shellfish. Its derivatives, including sodium alginate and others, are commonly used as emulsifiers, thickeners, and binding agents in foods such as ice cream, desserts, puddings, and gels. Algin is commonly used by manufacturers in place of similar man-made chemicals so they can label the products as “all natural.”
In the health care industry, algin and its related compounds have a number of uses. It is often a main ingredient in facial masks, providing structure for the mask’s film, but it is not the active ingredient in the mask. Many homeopathic uses are attributed to algin and its derivatives as well, including improved bowel function. It is also believed to be a natural cholesterol-lowering agent because it may help prevent the absorption of cholesterol. Algin might also help modulate glucose metabolism, making it useful for weight loss regimens and diabetes maintenance.
Side effects of algin use have not been identified, and home and folk remedies have not been tested or approved by any government agency or confirmed by scientific studies. However, there also does not appear to be any evidence that algin or its derivatives could be harmful. Pregnant or lactating women should not take these supplements, as the algin may interfere with nutrient absorption. For this reason, anyone taking these supplements should not take them with medication or within an hour before or after taking any medication.
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