Over The Horizon

Gel Heads Overseas

A unique anti-inflammatory gel derived from seaweed polysaccharides is gaining attention in the US and Australia.

The gel, originally developed for medical purposes such as skin conditions and to reduce swelling in sports injuries, also has potential for animal applications.Cracked cows' teats and chaffed harness-racers could benefit from the development.

"What makes it different from other [gels] is the delivery agent. The seaweed agent binds the anti-inflammatory to the skin, and then drives [the fat-soluble anti-inflammatory agent] into the skin,"says Dr Ian Miller of Carina Chemical Laboratories Ltd, the Hutt Valley company which has developed the gel.

Part of the research has entailed chemically modifying seaweed structure and finding new uses for it. Modifications to the polysaccharides enables different properties to be developed, broadening the potential applications for the gel.The company is currently negotiating sales and distribution overseas.