Pāua (Abalone)
protein
Pāua is the Māori name given to four New Zealand species of large edible sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs which belong to the family Haliotidae. It is known in Australia and the United States as abalone, and in the United Kingdom as ormer shells. In New Zealand, these are known as pāua, which is both singular and plural. In New Zealand, the pāua's polished inner shell is widely utilised for jewellery and ornamentation.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Prepare by grilling, steaming, or slow cooking.
- Avoid deep-frying to preserve nutritional value.
Interactions & contraindications
May affect blood pressure
Watch for: Antihypertensive medications (ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics)
Combined use can push blood pressure too high or too low — monitor readings if you take blood pressure medication.
May thin the blood
Watch for: Anticoagulants (warfarin), antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel), and other blood-thinning herbs or supplements (ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, vitamin E)
Combining blood-thinning substances can increase bleeding risk, including before surgery or dental work.
May affect immune activity
Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)
Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.
May have a stimulant effect
Watch for: Other caffeine-containing products, MAOIs, and stimulant medications (for ADHD or weight loss)
Additive stimulant effects can raise heart rate and blood pressure.