Evidence supporting the use of: Sargassum
For the health condition: Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Sargassum, a genus of brown seaweed, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other East Asian healing systems. In TCM, Sargassum (commonly referred to as "Hai Zao") is traditionally used to address conditions such as goiter, edema, and to soften hard masses, but it is also sometimes incorporated into topical remedies for various skin conditions. While historical records and some ethnobotanical sources mention its occasional use to soothe dry or flaky skin, most references focus on its use for more severe dermatological conditions, such as eczema or inflammatory skin diseases. The rationale for its use in these contexts is typically based on its cooling and detoxifying properties, as perceived in TCM, as well as its mucilaginous texture, which can be soothing when applied topically. However, there is a lack of robust modern scientific studies directly evaluating the efficacy of Sargassum for treating dry or flaky skin specifically. Some contemporary research has identified Sargassum extracts as sources of bioactive compounds with potential moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, but these findings are preliminary and not specific to common dryness or flakiness. Thus, the evidence supporting its use for this purpose remains primarily traditional, with limited scientific validation.
Other ingredients used for Skin (dry and/or flaky)
aloe veraalpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
beeswax
biotin
borage oil
colostrum
evening primrose oil
gooseberry
linoleic acid (LA)
magnesium
omega-3 fatty acids
rehmannia glutinosa
silicon
vitamin A
vitamin E
zinc
chickweed
swertia
birch
sea salt
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
American Liverleaf
Allantoin
Acemannan
Argan nut oil
Butter
Borage
Cod Liver Oil
Cape Aloe
Cocoa Butter
Cowslip
Chestnut
Castile Soap
Emu Oil
Evening Primrose Oil
Oak
Orchid
Spikenard
Silk protein
Other health conditions supported by Sargassum
Abdominal PainCancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Colds (general)
Constipation (adults)
Cough (general)
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Gastritis
Inflammation
Liver Detoxification
Pain (general remedies for)
Psoriasis
Sinus Infection
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin Care (general)
Sunburn
Wounds and Sores