Seaweed is a simple, fascinating plant which sources its nourishment from the sea - it is a treasure chest of natural chemicals and beneficial ingredients.

At the Bathhouse, the seaweeds hand-harvested on the Irish Atlantic Coast for bathing are primarily Fucus Serratus, more commonly known as Serrated Wrack, and Fucus Vesiculosus - or Bladder Wrack.

Seaweeds draw from the sea an incomparable wealth of mineral elements, macro-elements, vitamins and trace elements. The mineral content of some seaweeds accounts for up to 80% of its dry matter.

At the Bathhouse, when seaweed is heated in seawater it releases an alginate gel which is packed with trace elements, nutrients and vitamins including Vitamin A (beta-carotene), C, E, D, K and Folic Acid.

Seaweed gel is an emollient with smoothing, tissue renewal and anti-inflammatory properties. It acts as a moisturiser by its hydrating and protective action of forming a layer on the skin that reduces loss of skin moisture through evaporation.

The Iodine or Iodine-Protein complexes which are prevalent in seaweed are essential for the thyroid gland, to regulate the body’s metabolism.

In ancient Polynesia, the people knew of the curative properties of seaweed and used it to treat various wounds, bruises and swellings. Seaweed was also known as “Sailor’s Cure” by ancient mariners.

Seaweed has natural anti-ageing and anti-cellulite properties. It can improve suppleness and the elasticity of the skin. It can stimulate the renewal of damaged skin cells as well as detoxify, cleanse, tone and naturally moisturise the skin.

Seaweed or Algae is the oldest form of life on the planet.

Algae extracts released by the heated Seaweed have a pronounced moisturising effect on the hair, increasing hair lustre and softness and decreasing its’ electrostatic charge.

Essential Fatty Acids that are contained in Seaweed are a part of the lipid layer in your skin, and help maintain the suppleness and elasticity of skin.

Seaweeds contain Algal polyphenols and Carotenoids which have been proven to be powerful antioxidants.

Seaweed has been used as an effective treatment for conditions like Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis and Acne.