Sea Cucumber

History and Uses:
Sea Cucumber is a marine animal found on ocean floors throughout the world. Most are less than a foot long and resemble cucumbers in shape, which accounts for their popular name. Sea Cucumbers are relatives of starfish and sea urchins, and they feed on algae that they sift from sand on the seabed. Sea Cucumber is considered a delicacy in Chinese cooking and is often served at New Year's feasts, usually in soups. The Chinese call Sea Cucumber Hai shen, which means "sea ginseng," a reference to its healing properties. Moreover, it has also been found to contain saponin glycosides, which are similar to compounds found in Korean (Panax) Ginseng. In Chinese medicine, Sea Cucumber is believed to be warming in nature and a source of nourishment for the yin and the blood, as well as a tonic for the kidneys. It is used to treat impotence, constipation, frequent urination and weakness. Its use in treating arthritis pain, tendonitis and chronic joint pain, has received much support from clinical trials conducted in China. It has been found that Sea Cucumber is a natural source of chondroitin, which is believed to be effective in rebuilding worn cartilage, and several over-the-counter arthritis treatments using Sea Cucumber have appeared on store shelves in recent years. Sea Cucumber has also been investigated for its possible use for malignant diseases. Nutritionally, Sea Cucumber is among the best sources of protein in the world, containing more than tweny different proteins, while being extremely low in fat content.