The local variety of Sea Cucumber, Stichopus Variegatus, known as Gamat contains a wide range of nutrients including Collagen, Marine Protein, Essential Fatty Acids, Antioxidants including Vitamin E and Minerals.
It has been used as a traditional remedy for wounds, lung ailments, parasitic skin infections, backaches, joint or rheumatic pains, heartburn or abdominal complaints, allergies, stomach and mouth ulcers and for promoting womb healing after delivery. Studies conducted in local universities have verified many of its Benefits for Health and Beauty.
Gamat Hair Tonic supplies a synergistic blend of nutrients for the scalp and hair: nutritive purified Gamat (sea cucumber) extract, Trichogen wheat-protein, vitamins, amino acids and herbal extracts.
Research has shown that nutrient-rich Gamat supplies protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Trichogen improves cellular oxygenation and scalp micro-circulation. Efficacy tests show that regular topical application can:
• Decrease hair loss and stimulate hair growth
• Protect hair with a conditioning microfilm
• Promote healthier scalp by balancing secretions
• Improve elasticity to prevent cresting stress caused by combing
GAMAT – THE GINSENG OF THE SEA
In Peninsular Malaysia, Sea Cucumbers are called gamat or ibu gamat. In Sabah and Sarawak, they are known as gamat, bat or balat. The name gamat applies to the Stichopus species of sea cucumber, which is known to contain bio-active substances that destroy micro-organisms, especially fungi. Among the Chinese, it is known as hai shen or “Ginseng Of The Sea” In Sabah, sea cucumbers are eaten as delicacies and are an excellent source of protein. In Peninsular Malaysia, it is prepared in soups and used in medicinal preparations. It is traditionally used by the Chinese to treat high blood pressure, asthma, internal bleeding, muscle weakness, and to enhance vitality and sexual function. In promoting healing after surgery, its effectiveness is considered to be even better than haruan fish (Channa striata).
Coastal inhabitants in Sabah bathe in water soaked with sea cucumbers, and eat them to treat epilepsy, to heal wounds, relieve constipation, and remove dead cells from the skin. It is also rubbed on the skin infected by ringworms.
Protein makes up about 44% of the dry weight of a sea cucumber, carbohydrates between 1 and 5%, and fats generally about 1%. Sea cucumbers also possess Saponin. Collagen from the body wall of sea cucumber is rich in protein and certain essential amino acids. Purified sea cucumber extract (air gamat) comes from the internal part of the body, and sea cucumber oil (minyak gamat) is processed from the tissues. They are used as remedies for wounds, lung ailments, parasitic skin infections, backaches, joint/rheumatic pains, heartburn/gastritis, allergies, stomach and mouth ulcers, and for promoting womb healing after delivery.
Sea cucumbers are also rich in minerals that vary among species. They contain antioxidants including vitamin E, essential fatty acids including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and decosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Vitamin E is an antioxidant, essential for fertility, which slows down the degeneration process of cells and hence delays aging. EPA is crucial for healing wounds and restoring cells. By reducing blood clots in the large and small blood vessels, EPA is anti-thrombotic and lowers the risk of stroke.
Gamat is much more than a delicacy – it is a safe and nutritious form of food, and also has a wide range of medicinal properties.
