In Romania, researchers recently discovered a natural compound that speeds up skin regeneration. Dr. Diane Badiu from the University of Costanza studied lipid extracts taken from the Mediterranean mussel and hard shell clam. Lab mice with induced burn wounds were treated with ointment containing the purified animal extracts. They were then compared to mice that did not receive treatment. Badiu and her team observed that the mice that received treatment healed almost twice as fast as and much more completely than the mice who received none.
The researchers surmised that the decreased healing period was the result of the fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6, compounds which are prevalent in the shell dwelling sea creatures. Badiu stated that the fatty acids most likely helped because of their anti-inflammatory properties. The results of the study could mean a lot for the skin care industry. Clam and mussel extracts could very soon be incorporated into beauty products and spa treatments.