Seaweed: The Power of the Ocean

On World Seaweed Day, we’re celebrating the incredible marine plant that holds a powerful place in diet, history, and skincare. Grown in the pure, clean waters of the Outer Hebrides, the seaweed we sustainably hand-harvest brings our organic skincare to life. But its story stretches far beyond skincare...

What is Seaweed, Really?

Seaweed is a marine algae, not a plant in the traditional sense. Found in oceans across the globe, it comes in thousands of varieties, and as a self-sufficient marine plant, seaweed requires no soil, fresh water, or fertiliser to grow. It is naturally nutrient-rich, fast-growing, and available year-round, making it one of the most sustainable and environmentally responsible ingredients in the world.

Seaweed's Superpowers

Agriculture

For centuries, seaweed has been valued as a natural fertiliser and soil enhancer. Rich in essential nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium, it helps to nourish and strengthen plants, promoting healthy growth. Whether applied directly to the soil or added to compost, seaweed improves soil structure and fertility. It also acts as a natural deterrent to common garden pests, particularly slugs and snails, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical treatments.

Diet

Seaweed is one of the oldest human foods on Earth and has a history of use going back thousands of years in Asia and South America. Seaweed also played a significant role in the ancient European diet, providing vital nutrients and protein long before modern agriculture took root. Over time, however, as wheat and other cultivated crops became dominant, seaweed gradually disappeared from the European table. Today, Japan, South Korea and China are the countries that are the largest consumers of seaweed.

Skincare

At ishga, we sustainably hand-harvest four nutrient-rich types of Hebridean seaweed: Fucus Serratus, Ascophyllum Nodosum, Fucus Vesiculosus, and Pelvetia Canaliculata. Renowned for their skin-regenerating properties, these seaweeds deliver deep hydration while naturally stimulating the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, helping to promote healthy, radiant skin. Our scientists perfected the development of our unique seaweed extract, which lies at the heart of every formulation in our range.

Supplements

Seaweed is increasingly recognised as a powerful ingredient in nutritional supplements, offering a natural source of essential vitamins and minerals. Rich in iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins, seaweed can support thyroid function, energy levels, bone health, and overall wellbeing. Its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory content also makes it beneficial for immune support. Discover Doctor Seaweed's range of Seaweed Supplements with ishga here.

Sustainability

Our seaweed harvesting practices are certified by the Biodynamic Association, ensuring they meet the highest standards for sustainability, biodiversity, and natural regeneration. We carefully rotate our harvesting locations, allowing ecosystems time to replenish and thrive. Only the amount needed for each fresh batch is gathered, so we preserve the delicate balance of the marine environment. We use our seaweed fresh, without drying or storing, significantly reducing both energy and water consumption.

Beyond skincare, agriculture and nutrition, seaweed’s versatility extends to a wide range of uses - it’s used in everything from animal feed and wound care to sustainable textiles, paper, and eco-friendly packaging.

Did You Know...

• Seaweed plays a vital role in sustaining life on Earth, with marine plants like seaweed producing approximately 70% of the world’s oxygen.
• Found exclusively in saltwater environments, there are over 12,000 known species of seaweed thriving in oceans across the globe. These species are typically grouped into three main categories - red, green, and brown seaweeds. The United Kingdom is home to over 600 species of seaweed, the UK's cold, temperate waters and extensive tidal zones create ideal conditions for seaweed growth.
• Seaweeds don’t have roots, while underwater they will attach themselves to something, like a rock. Some species of seaweed can survive floating in the ocean.
• There are 9x more seaweeds in the oceans than plants on land!

From traditional foods and agricultural use to natural remedies and modern skincare, seaweed has long been recognised as an invaluable resource across cultures and centuries. We are continually inspired by its ability to deliver powerful, transformative benefits for the skin, and remain deeply grateful for the role it plays at the heart of our organic skincare range.