This plant is a seaweed, the most important ingredient is a pectin called carrageenin which is similar to agar agar. Its mucilage content makes this plant useful in any treatment of the skin or the mucous membranes. However, its main use is in respiratory problems such as bronchitis, because of its ability to absorb liquid and eliminate it from the body. It finds a use in cosmetics as a skin softener, because it has moisture absorbing qualities.