iota-Carrageenan

iota-Carrageenan Nasal Spray is a special preparation of Carrageenan. It can be used to prevent and treat viral upper respiratory infections, to ease the nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis, and to relieve a dry and irritated nasal mucosa. Carrageenan is a natural carbohydrate (polysaccharide) taken from edible red seaweeds. Its name comes from the seaweed species Chondrus crispus, known as Carrageen Moss or Irish Moss.

The nose is the most common route by which viruses that cause the common cold and flu-like illness enter the body. These illnesses are caused by viruses such as rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, influenza virus, adenovirus, enterovirus and respiratory syncytial virus. Once a virus gets into the nose, it can attach to the mucous membrane and infect the mucosal cells, where it multiplies and spreads. This brings on the usual cold symptoms, like a blocked or runny nose, sneezing and so on.

iota-Carrageenan Nasal Spray forms a protective barrier film against cold viruses. The iota-carrageenan wraps around cold viruses without targeting any one type, and stops them from sticking to the mucous membranes. The film stays on the nasal mucosa for longer and acts as a physical barrier against outside influences. Virus particles entering the nasal cavity are blocked by the thick layer of Carrageenan, so they can't infect the mucosal cells. New virus particles released from infected cells are also blocked from infecting other cells. This natural moisture film supports the body's own defences against cold viruses, and so the reproduction and spread of the viruses that infect the airways is reduced.

Low humidity and air pollution can dry out the nasal mucous membrane. The nose can only do its filtering job properly if the membrane is moist enough. Carrageenan binds water strongly, so the spray forms soft gels when water is present. These gels make a protective, moisturizing film on the mucosal surfaces. The film works as a barrier against outside influences such as viruses or allergens, and it also moisturizes the surfaces. This helps keep the mucosa healthy and better able to resist things like dry air.