Crustaceans
Other names for Crustaceans
alaskan snow crab
antarctic crustacea extract
chinese sea crab
chinese sea shrimp
crab
crab {exoskeleton}
crab exoskeleton
crab shell
crawfish
crayfish
crustacea
crustacean
crustaceans
crustacean shell
crustacean shellfish
crustacean shells
lobster
oyster 4:1 extract
oyster extract
oyster extract, natural
prawns
shellfish
shellfish exoskeleton
shellfish exoskeletons
shellfish extract
shellfish source
shrimp
shrimp {exoskeleton}
shrimp exoskeleton
Synopsis of Crustaceans
History
Crustaceans, a diverse group that includes shrimp, crab, lobster, and krill, have a long-standing history in traditional medicine across various cultures. For centuries, their shells and flesh have been utilized not only as a source of nutrition but also for their purported medicinal properties. In ancient Chinese and Japanese medicine, crushed crustacean shells were used to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation, thanks to their rich content of chitin and chitosan. These natural compounds are believed to support tissue regeneration and act as mild antimicrobials.
In folk remedies throughout Europe and Asia, crushed crab shells were sometimes infused in broths or teas to support joint health and alleviate symptoms of arthritis. Likewise, crustacean extracts have been used to fortify herbal tonics aimed at boosting vitality and strengthening the immune system. The high mineral content, particularly calcium and magnesium, further contributed to their inclusion in remedies for bone health.
Crustaceans have also played a significant role in herbal combinations, often being blended with botanicals such as ginger, turmeric, or ginseng to enhance their health benefits. Such combinations were believed to synergize the anti-inflammatory and nourishing effects of both the herbs and crustacean derivatives, offering holistic support for conditions like fatigue, joint discomfort, and digestive issues.
Modern research continues to explore the benefits of crustacean-derived compounds, especially chitosan, which is used in dietary supplements for cholesterol management and weight support. Overall, crustaceans remain a valuable ingredient in both traditional and contemporary health practices, contributing positively to wellness through their unique nutritional and medicinal properties.
Traditional and scientific validation
Crustaceans, a broad category that includes shrimp, crab, lobster, and krill, have long been valued in various cultures for their nutritional benefits. Historically, they have served as a key source of protein and essential nutrients in coastal diets worldwide. Their shells are rich in chitin, which can be processed into chitosan—a compound studied for its potential cholesterol-lowering effects and use as a dietary fiber supplement. Additionally, crustacean-derived oils, particularly from krill, are high in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are linked to cardiovascular and cognitive health.
Scientific validation for the use of crustacean-based ingredients in nutritional products is growing. Some clinical studies have shown that chitosan may modestly reduce cholesterol levels and aid in weight management, though results are mixed and more robust research is needed. Krill oil has been investigated in multiple trials, with evidence suggesting it can increase plasma omega-3 levels and may help maintain healthy lipid profiles. Furthermore, crustacean shells are a primary source of glucosamine, commonly used in supplements for joint health, with several studies reporting improvement in symptoms of osteoarthritis, although findings are not universally consistent.
While definitive conclusions regarding the efficacy of crustacean-derived nutritional ingredients await further large-scale, long-term studies, current research and historical usage both underscore their potential contributions to health. Ongoing scientific exploration continues to reveal the diverse bioactive compounds present in crustaceans, supporting their positive role in the development of innovative nutritional products.
Crustaceans is used for these health conditions
Arthritis (Scientific)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Crustaceans is used to support these body systems
Joints (Scientific)