The Green Lipped Mussel (Perna canaliculus), also called Greenshell Mussel, is a type of shellfish native to New Zealand. They are characterized by their vibrant green shells with distinctive green edges, which give them their name.

Green-lipped mussels are highly prized for their culinary uses, nutritional value and potential health benefits, making them a popular choice among seafood enthusiasts and individuals seeking natural remedies for joint health and inflammation.

Green Lipped Mussels – Habitat in New Zealand

One reason that these mussels are in such high demand is that they only occur naturally on the New Zealand coast. The green lipped mussels have been cultivated off the New Zealand coast since the 1970s, and are currently experiencing annual growth in a median range of 18%, a huge expansion per year, based on the demand for the seafood and its extracts. Green lipped mussels are considered to be one of the top two ecologically sound types of seafood worldwide, something which may contribute to their beneficial health capabilities.

Active Ingredients of Green Lipped Mussels

The oil extracted from green lipped mussels is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have anti-inflammatory properties and are essential for overall health.

Additionally, green-lipped mussels contain glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, which are components of cartilage tissue and may support joint health.

As well as the omega-3 fatty acids and glycosaminoglycans mentioned above, the oil, powder and the mussels contain a variety of; proteins, minerals, vitamins, healthy enzymes, polypeptides, polysaccharides and glycoproteins.

Health Benefits of Green Lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels are renowned for their potential health benefits, primarily attributed to their rich nutrient profile and unique composition. They have often been hailed as a miracle food because no matter how you consume them, be it as a delicious seafood itself or as oil or powder, their health benefits are absolutely amazing.

Green Lipped Mussels are speculated to be a treatment option for a variety of different health issues including; osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain caused by cancer treatments, asthma and daytime wheezing. The oil extracted from these miracle muscles acts as an anti-inflammatory agent that is totally natural and very powerful.

These supplementary nutrients aid in the preservation of mobility and joint health, functional cartilage, a healthy heart, glowing skin and overall health concerns.

Below we will explore some of the key health benefits of green-lipped mussels:

Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Green-lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels contain a unique combination of omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have potent anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body, making green-lipped mussels beneficial for individuals with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Green-lipped Mussels for Joint Health

As the body metabolizes the natural omega-3s found in green lipped mussel oil, they go to work on restoring and soothing inflamed joints, muscles and tissues. This can cause a great deal of pain relief for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus and other illnesses which cause severe joint pain.

The anti-inflammatory properties of green-lipped mussels make them particularly beneficial for supporting joint health and relieving symptoms of arthritis, including pain, stiffness, and swelling. Studies have shown that supplementation with green-lipped mussel extract may help improve joint function and reduce the need for conventional pain medications in individuals with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Green-lipped Mussels for Cartilage Protection

Green-lipped mussels contain glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, which are essential components of cartilage tissue. These compounds help maintain the structural integrity of joints and may support cartilage repair and regeneration, making green-lipped mussels beneficial for individuals with degenerative joint conditions like osteoarthritis.

Green-lipped Mussels for Heart Health

The omega-3 fatty acids found in green-lipped mussels have been shown to have cardioprotective effects, including lowering blood pressure, reducing triglyceride levels, and improving cholesterol profiles. Regular consumption of green-lipped mussels may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and support overall heart health.

Green-lipped Mussels for Immune Support

Green-lipped mussels are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help support a healthy immune system. These nutrients help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance immune function, making green-lipped mussels beneficial for supporting overall immune health and resilience to infections.

Green-lipped Mussels to Improve Skin Health

The omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants in green-lipped mussels may help promote healthy skin by reducing inflammation, protecting against oxidative damage, and supporting skin cell regeneration. Regular consumption of green-lipped mussels may contribute to a more youthful complexion and improved skin texture.

Green-lipped Mussels for Respiratory Health

Green Lipped Mussels are also of great benefit to people who suffer from respiratory issues such as; asthma, chronic bronchitis or respiratory issues, as it helps lung tissue to regain strength and restore normal breathing ability.

How To Take Green Lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels offer a wide range of potential health benefits, particularly for; joint health, inflammation, heart health, immune support, and skin health. Incorporating them into your diet or using mussel-based supplements may help support overall health and well-being.

Green-lipped mussels, known for their potential health benefits due to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, can be consumed in various ways:

Culinary Uses
As a seafood, green-lipped mussels can be consumed fresh or frozen They can be cooked using various methods, such as; steaming, boiling, grilling or baking, and are commonly used in seafood dishes, soups, stews and pasta recipes.

Supplements
In addition to their culinary uses, green-lipped mussels are used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.

The nutrients of these mussels can be extracted as an oil or in a powder form, for treating inflammatory illnesses and joint pain, with many other accompanying health benefits. They are often included in joint health supplements and are believed to; support joint function, reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Green Lipped Mussel Supplements Explained

Because of the wide range of issues that can be treated with green lipped mussel oils and powders, it is one of the best selling supplements on the market. The restorative powers found in the omega 3s of these mussels have restorative abilities that have created a high demand for the seafood, powder, oil and extract.

Some of the most powerfully marketed forms of green lipped mussel oil contain only three ingredients, those being; the green lipped mussel oil, grape seed extract powder and kiwi fruit seed oil. The oil may be combined with a variety of omega-3 oils including; linseed oil, hemp seed oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, evening primrose oil, soybean oil, walnuts and canola seeds. Other marine sources of omega-3 oils are often paired with the green lipped mussel oil, such as; fish oil, krill oil, cod liver oil and marine algae.

These are all effective anti-inflammatory treatments in their own right, which boost the efficacy of the mussel oil itself.

However there is actually no need to pair green lipped muscle oil or powder with any other supplement because it is one of the most effective sources of nutrition and supplementary vitamins available. On its own, it can do the same amount of work as an average multivitamin, if not more.

Here are some common methods of incorporating green-lipped mussels into your diet:

Fresh or Frozen: Green-lipped mussels can be purchased fresh or frozen from seafood markets or grocery stores. They can be cooked using various methods, such as steaming, boiling, grilling, or baking. Simply season them to your liking and cook until they are tender and opaque.

Added to Culinary Recipes: Green-lipped mussels can be added to a variety of recipes to enhance flavor and nutrition. They work well in seafood soups, stews, pasta dishes, risottos, salads, and stir-fries. Simply add cooked green-lipped mussels to your favorite recipes or use them as a topping or garnish.

Powdered or Capsule Form: Green-lipped mussel extract is available in powdered or capsule form as a dietary supplement. Green lipped mussel powder is, like its oil counterpart, sold in capsule form for the preservation of the integrity of the product and to maintain a taste that is acceptable to the purchaser. This convenient option allows you to easily incorporate the benefits of green-lipped mussels into your daily routine. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Mussel Oil: Green-lipped mussel oil is another option for consuming the beneficial compounds found in green-lipped mussels. It can be used as a cooking oil or added to salad dressings, marinades, or smoothies for a nutritional boost. Green lipped mussel oil is typically produced in a supplement form within an easy to swallow capsule. It is sold in bottles in most health food stores. Selling the oil in the capsule is the most effective way to ship it while preserving its natural healthy qualities and also making the oil palatable to the person who is taking it.

Mussel Extracts: Some dietary supplements contain concentrated extracts of green-lipped mussels, which may offer higher levels of certain nutrients or bioactive compounds. These extracts are available in various forms, including liquid extracts and softgel capsules.

When consuming green-lipped mussels, it’s essential to ensure that they are sourced from reputable suppliers and properly cooked to minimize the risk of food borne illness. Additionally, individuals with shellfish allergies or those taking blood-thinning medications should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating green-lipped mussels into their diet or using mussel-based supplements.

Always take care when taking herbs and Read Our Disclaimer.

Green Lipped Mussels Notes / Side Effects

While green-lipped mussels are generally considered safe for most people when consumed as part of a balanced diet or used in dietary supplements, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly if they have allergies or sensitivities to shellfish. Common side effects of green-lipped mussels may include:

Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to shellfish, including green-lipped mussels, which can cause allergic reactions ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms may include itching, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal distress. Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid green-lipped mussels altogether.

Digestive Issues: Consuming green-lipped mussels may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals, especially if they are not cooked thoroughly or if they are consumed in large quantities. Symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, or gas. To minimize the risk of digestive issues, it’s essential to cook green-lipped mussels properly and consume them in moderation.

Heavy Metal Contamination: Like other seafood, green-lipped mussels may contain trace amounts of heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, or lead, which can accumulate in the body over time and may pose health risks, particularly with long-term consumption. To reduce the risk of heavy metal exposure, choose green-lipped mussels from reputable sources that adhere to strict quality and safety standards.

Interactions with Medications: Green-lipped mussel supplements may interact with certain medications, particularly blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin) or antiplatelet drugs. Green-lipped mussels contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have natural blood-thinning properties and may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with these medications. If you are taking any medications, especially blood thinners, consult with a healthcare professional before using green-lipped mussel supplements.

Purine Content: Green-lipped mussels are a natural source of purines, which are compounds that can be metabolized into uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid may increase the risk of gout or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with existing gout or other conditions characterized by elevated uric acid levels. Individuals with gout or a history of kidney stones may need to limit their intake of purine-rich foods, including green-lipped mussels.

In summary, whilst green-lipped mussels offer numerous potential health benefits, it’s essential to consume them in moderation and be aware of any potential side effects, especially if you have allergies, sensitivities or underlying health conditions. If you experience any adverse reactions after consuming green-lipped mussels or mussel-based supplements, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.