This story begins in the 1950s when a marine biologist named Robert “Bob” Ellis started exploring the health benefits of red sea algae. Robert and his wife, Natasha Calvin, used scuba gear in SE Alaska to harvest three species of subtidal red algae to produce a mixture called Alaska Dulse, which they used topically for cold sores.

Bob’s passion for red Dulse led him to engage with the Sitka Conservation Society, teaching the youth about this marine plant’s ecological and health benefits and teaching them to harvest it sustainably. Professional Formulas was fortunate to collaborate with Bob in the 1980s, and he kindly provided us with the red Dulse he had painstakingly harvested.

Dulse, scientifically known as Palmaria palmata, is a red seaweed that thrives in the cool waters of the Northern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This vibrant red alga has a rich history of use, tracing back to the ancient civilizations of Ireland, Scotland, and Iceland.

Dulse has been a staple in the diets of coastal communities for centuries. It was traditionally used to add a unique flavor and nutrient boost to a variety of dishes. More recently, its potential uses have extended beyond the culinary realm, and it has gained recognition in the world of natural wellness.

Professional Formulas maintained a relationship with Bob for decades, but he eventually passed away in Portland, OR, in 2019. Despite our efforts, we could no longer source red Dulse from the same tidal lands where Bob harvested it in SE Alaska.

Undeterred, we took this as a challenge rather than a setback. Through extensive research, we discovered other sources in the North Pacific Ocean. Responsible harvesting is seasonal and dependent on low tides, but we have managed to maintain a steady supply.

Our journey is marked by respect for the natural cycle, an approach that mirrors the use of Dulse by local communities in Alaska, where they only collect enough to sustain their own communities. This tradition has been a guidepost for us as we continue our work with this precious resource.

As we move into the future and continue providing our red dulse spray, we remember the legacy of Natasha Calvin and Bob Ellis. Their pioneering spirit lives on in every bottle we produce, a testament to their belief in the power of the sea, the potential of red Dulse, and the resilience of Professional Formulas.

Our Red Dulse Spray is blend of potent ingredients designed to complement the body’s natural systems for maintaining immune health.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.