What Is Duckweed? What Are Duckweed Benefits For Humans?

Duckweed is a family of small aquatic plants found everywhere on Earth. Duckweed is a potential nutritional supplement for humans. Through this article, let's explore the answer to the question, "What are duckweed benefits for humans?".

What is Duckweed Supplement?

Duckweed is an aquatic plant rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is often used as a vegan or vegetarian alternative to animal-based protein. [1] It can be detected everywhere.

Duckweed supplements are derived from an aquatic plant called Wolffia Globosa. This specific variety of Duckweed has gained attention due to its nutritional value and potential health benefits.

These supplements are typically available in powder or extract form, and they are consumed to take advantage of the plant's high protein content, abundance of vitamins and minerals, and other beneficial compounds. [2]

The potential benefits associated with Mankai duckweed supplements include support for weight management and the provision of essential nutrients like vitamin B12. Additionally, Mankai duckweed is known for its antioxidant properties, which can contribute to overall health and well-being. [2]

Learn more: Is Duckweed Edible? What Does Duckweed Taste Like?

What Are Duckweed Benefits For Humans?

Visceral Fat Loss

Duckweed was incorporated in the green MED diet (Mediterranean diet - a rich source of polyphenols benefits for adiposity) in a 2022 study. Results showed that people using this diet were able to reduce visceral fat. [3]

Visceral fat can increase insulin resistance [4] even if you have never had diabetes or prediabetes.

Research has found that this may be due to a retinol-binding protein that increases resistance to insulin secreted by this type of fat. Visceral fat can also rapidly increase blood pressure. [5]

Therefore, reducing visceral fat is extremely necessary.

Good Source Of Polyphenols And Flavonoids

Flavonoids play roles in growth, photosynthesis, biological protection, and various processes such as UV radiation resistance, disease resistance, and adaptation to harsh environmental conditions.

Moreover, flavonoids also exhibit physical activities relevant to human health, including antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties and crucial antioxidant effects.

Certain flavonoids like quercetin and rutin have been studied and demonstrated to have the ability to inhibit the invasion of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, particularly in the context of treating COVID-19. [6]

Flavonoids are a type of polyphenol belonging to the polyphenol family—a large group of plant-derived chemical compounds. Therefore, the presence of polyphenols, including flavonoids, in Duckweed can positively affect the human body.

Polyphenols in Duckweed, including flavonoids, possess antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative processes.

This can contribute to the overall health benefits for humans. [6]. Duckweed is rich in C-glycosyl-flavonoids, which may benefit the human diet thanks to its antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. [6]

Provides Vitamin B12

In exploring the benefits of duckweed for humans, it is worth noting that it has attracted attention for Duckweed's potential as a rich source of Vitamin B12.

Duckweed has the potential to provide a high-quality alternative source of animal protein and has the potential as a bioavailable source of vitamin B12.

Vitamin B12 helps keep nerves healthy and supports the production of DNA and red blood cells. In addition, duckweed benefits for humans also include maintaining normal brain function. [7]

Enhance Immunity And Intestinal Health

Duckweed is considered to have traditional uses as an antipruritic, antimalarial, astringent, antiseptic, diuretic, antipyretic, and sleeping aid. Studies have demonstrated its antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and immunomodulatory effects. [8]

In addition, studies have shown that Duckweed may also benefit intestinal health and aid in preventing certain digestive disorders. Duckweed exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities, reducing the adverse effects of gamma radiation on the small intestine.

The therapeutic plant substance, Lemnan, derived from Duckweed, contains the active ingredient pectin polysaccharide, which enhances the immune barrier function of the small intestine. [9]

How Does Duckweed Work On Humans?

Certain species of Duckweed contain high protein content, reaching up to 45%, providing all essential amino acids following FAO references. This can support the growth and development of the human body. [10]

It can supply energy and macro/micronutrients to the human body, maintaining health and supporting body structure when consumed as a food source.

Duckweed's nutritional composition encompasses macro and micronutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals that significantly contribute to duckweed benefits for humans. [10]

Incorporating Mankai duckweed into your shake can help boost nutrients, especially in protein and other essential elements. You can combine Duckweed with fruits, vegetables, etc., to increase the flavor and make it more delicious.

Learn more: Duckweed Nutrition Facts and Everything You Need to Know

Side Effects of Duckweed

Duckweed has no reported significant side effects when used in therapeutic doses. However, besides duckweed benefits for humans, it contains notable levels of calcium oxalate, a compound that may contribute to the development of kidney stones.

In addition, if Duckweed is grown in a polluted environment, it can be contaminated with environmental toxins. Duckweed can absorb toxins from that dirty water. Using these contaminated duckweeds will not be suitable for your health. [8]

Other Uses Of Duckweed In Medicine

A Valuable Source Of Protein

What is Duckweed used for? Duckweed is a functional food that provides nutrients to the human body.

Duckweed is recognized as a valuable source of protein, containing essential amino acids. Its high protein content makes it a potential supplement for individuals seeking alternative protein sources. [11]

Pharmaceutical Resources

Compounds extracted from Duckweed are being investigated for their potential medicinal properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds may have applications in the development of pharmaceutical drugs. [8]

Duckweed encompasses many applications, including its potential as a nutritional supplement, biofuel feedstock, water purifier, and animal feed.

Dosage And Precautions When Using Duckweed

The recommended daily dosage of herbal medicine in liquid form for internal use is 3.10 grams. The suggested dosage is 1-2 grams per day in powdered form. [8]
Regarding external use, the general rule is that more is better. [8]

Evaluating whether Duckweed is good or bad depends on many factors. As with any herbal supplement or remedy, you should consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage based on your health condition and personal needs. Additionally, the possibility of drug interactions should be considered.

If your body has adverse reactions, you should stop and consult a doctor. Furthermore, you can start with a small dose and gradually increase it to give your body time to adapt.

Conclusion

Duckweed has many potential health benefits thanks to its high protein content, rich nutritional profile, and various bioactive compounds. Duckweed promises to be a great dietary supplement for humans. Hopefully, you have the answer to the question "What are duckweed benefits for humans?" through this article.