Agar Purchase & Information
Alternative Names
Agar-Agar, Agarose, Agarose Gel, Agaropectin, Agarweed, Algue de Java, Chinese Gelatin, Colle du Japon, Gelosa, Gélose, Japanese Isinglas, Kanten Diet, Kanten Jelly, Kanten Plan, Layor Carang, Mousse de Ceylan, Mousse de Jaffna, Qion Zhi, Seaweed Gelatin, Vegetable Gelatin, Vegetarian Gelatin
Scientific Name
Geledium Cartilagineum
Why Do People Use Agar?
Orally, agar is for diabetes, weight loss and obesity, and constipation.
In dentistry, agar is used to make dental impressions.
In manufacturing processes, agar is used as an ingredient in emulsions, suspensions, gels, and hydrophilic suppositories.
Is It Safe To Use?
Possibly Safe - When used orally and appropriately.
Pregnancy and Lactation - Insufficient reliable information available.
How Effective Is Agar?
There is insufficient reliable information available about the effectiveness of agar.
How Agar Works?
Agar consists of two major fibrous polysaccharides, neutral agarose and charged agaropectin. Agarose is the gelling fraction (11). Agar is thought to work as a bulk laxative by expanding in the gut and stimulating peristalsis in the intestines.
There is interest in using agar for weight loss and obesity. The bulking effect of agar is theorized to increase feelings of fullness and therefore decrease food intake. So far, there is no reliable scientific support for this theory.
What Are The Side Effects /Adverse Reactions of Agar?
Orally, no side effects have been reported; however, theoretically, agar could potentially cause esophageal or bowel obstruction if taken with insufficient fluids.
How Agar Interacts With Other Herbs and Supplements?
None known.
How Agar Interacts With Drugs?
Oral Drugs - Theoretically, the fiber in agar might impair absorption of oral drugs.
How Agar Interacts With Foods?
None known.
How Agar Interacts With Lab Tests?
None known.
How Agar Interacts With Diseases and Conditions?
Bowel Obstruction - Theoretically, agar could potentially exacerbate esophageal or bowel obstruction, especially if taken with insufficient fluids.
What Should Be the Dose/Administration of Agar?
ORAL A typical dose is 4-16 grams, one to two times daily. Take each dose with at least 250 mL of water.
Comments
Agar, also known as kanten, is becoming a popular supplement for dieting in Japan. In Japan, it is referred to as the "kanten plan" or "kanten diet." Agar's bulking effect in the gut is theorized to increase the feeling of fullness and therefore help reduce food intake.
General Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Specification sheet links below are a standard copy of the COA less the batch or lot number and manufactures dates. Specification sheet can be dated and should only be considered as a general information. Please contact and request an up to date COA if needed for specific updated information before placing order by filling out the contact form with product name and SKU number. If ordering quantities of twenty five kilos or more contact for availability.
