Beauty Secrets From the Sea

The oceans hold secret treasure chests hidden deep in their salty blue waters. We have yet to unlock many of the sea's mysteries, but given what we're learning about the plants that grow so prolifically in the underwater world, it is not surprising that people have embraced their healing bounty for centuries.

"Thalassotherapy" is the science of sea treatments. The word originates from the Greek word thalasso, meaning "the sea." Soaking in a saltwater bath is as popular today with exclusive spas worldwide as it was in the decadent Roman times. Adding salts to a bathtub remains a tried-and-tested home treatment for relieving aches and pains and for relaxing after a stressful day. Salt baths can help in the treatment of skin irritations such as psoriasis and eczema, and many therapists promote a "salt soak" as part of a detoxification program. Interestingly, Epsom salts come from the spa town of Epsom in England. The beneficial effects of the spa water were discovered in 1695 by Nehemiah Grew, who was granted a royal patent for the salts. They were promoted as "...Purging waters perfectly fine very cheap."

There are more than 20,000 varieties of seaweed, and only recently have we begun to study these mineral and nutrient powerhouses, which contain vitamins A, B₁, B₂, C, D, E and high levels of magnesium and potassium salts. The concentration of trace elements is 10 times greater in seaweed than soil-grown plants, which is partly due to the nutritious mineral-rich base of seawater.

Various seaweeds and algae are included in hair care and skin creams and lotions. Natural face masks with seaweed bases are also gaining in popularity. They gently remove dead cells from the skin's surface, leaving a fresh, healthy complexion. The nutrients from the seaweed are absorbed, and its humectant properties help the skin stay moisturized and prevent the formation of fine lines. Mud and seaweed body wraps work on the same principle: they promote cleansing and aid in the reduction of cellulite. The body is "painted" with the mud and then wrapped in warm towels, allowing the beneficial ingredients time to exfoliate, tone and nourish the skin.

Soaking away the problems of the day appeals to young and old, male and female. When the salts from seawater are combined with sea algae and used in a whirlpool tub, a natural effervescence occurs like the waves of the ocean bubbling on the shore. Try adding a cup of natural sea salt to your tub and feel the caress of the oceans relax your body and soothe away the troubles of the day. We still have a lot to learn about our oceans, but they surely have many more gifts to offer.

PDF Table of Common Sea Ingredients