The natural world surprises us every day with its ability to find solutions for every problem. A concrete example comes from mollusks — as we have seen in this deep dive — that become true allies, when needed, by playing important roles in the ecosystem.
In this article, we want to focus our attention on a particular type of mussel. Not the most well-known, but increasingly sought after and appreciated thanks to its properties.
What are we talking about? Green mussels.
Green mussels: what are they and how they differ from black mussels
The name “green mussel” comes from the bright hue of its shell, which certainly doesn’t allow this mollusk to go unnoticed.
There are also slight brownish shades near the umbo and in the central area of the shell. Nonetheless, green is the dominant color of this type of mollusk.
This distinctive color is also present inside the shell, perfectly blending with the classic pearly white.
The features that differentiate the green mussel from the black mussel are the following:
- Elongated shape, wider in the middle part (also called equivalve)
- Curved upper edge and concave lower border
- No anterior adductor muscle scar
- Thin and very glossy outer shell coating
Black mussels can be found and harvested in many different countries. This makes them widely available and commercialized year-round. However, green mussels, although only available in certain seasons, boast enviable nutritional properties and impressive size.
Their properties, now widely used in medicine, have made them famous worldwide despite their origins in New Zealand.
The beneficial properties of green mussels
These mollusks are now well known around the world for their benefits, so remarkable that they are often described as “magical.”
What makes them so special?
Green mussels contain a large amount of glycosaminoglycans, essential sugars for the proper maintenance of healthy joints. They are also capable of repairing nerves damaged by shocks and trauma.
What interests the medical field most about this mollusk is its extract, which is used to produce a wide range of dietary supplements useful for various therapeutic purposes.
Green mussel extract promotes the production of synovial fluid in our body, which acts as a lubricant for the joints.
Dietary supplements with green mussel extract
These types of supplements have been studied for various inflammatory conditions, particularly asthma and different forms of arthritis. Here are some of the issues that green mussel extract supplements help address:
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the lungs and can make breathing difficult. By helping reduce inflammation in the pulmonary airways, green mussels can greatly benefit people suffering from asthma.
Arthritis
Arthritis, characterized by painful swelling and stiffness in one or more joints, is the result of chronic inflammation. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, green mussel extract has been shown to reduce joint inflammation, helping alleviate arthritis symptoms.
Muscle pain
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is characterized by muscle tenderness and stiffness that occur 24–48 hours after intense or unfamiliar exercise and can last for several days. A specific green mussel supplement given to well-trained athletes has been shown to reduce pain sensations in affected individuals.
Intestinal tract
The intestine is often called the “forgotten organ” due to its enormous importance in the body. To maintain a healthy and diverse gut, we need to regularly consume both prebiotic and probiotic foods. Prebiotics (fiber-rich foods like inulin) “feed” the bacteria already present in our gut, while probiotics (certain dairy products and fermented vegetables) introduce new strains. Green mussels also offer numerous benefits for the health of our intestinal system.
The side effects of green mussels are rare in people who are not allergic to mollusks. The few individuals who report side effects typically experience gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea and flatulence.
Green Mussels role in protecting our seas
Mollusks, commonly referred to as “ecosystem engineers,” regulate the flow of energy and nutrients in coastal waters. Additionally, they help build the ideal habitat for other marine species. They act as natural purifiers of our waters, which is why protecting them is so important.
Green mussels, specifically:
- Filter water to improve its quality.
- Provide a solid structure for marine organisms.
- Remove pollutants while absorbing nutrients to properly develop their shells.
- Absorb excess carbon dioxide, nitrogen from fertilizers and phosphorus.
As a result, the water remains cleaner for other marine life.
That’s why mussel farming (mitiliculture) is very important and must be protected. Alongside it, it is crucial to safeguard species like green mussels, which represent a true treasure for humans, the environment and, especially, for our health.
