Your body is made of seawater. Not metaphorically — literally. This is what biologist René Quinton understood more than a century ago, and what modern physiology confirms today: the mineral composition of human blood plasma is almost identical to that of diluted seawater. 78 minerals and trace elements, all present in ionic and bioavailable form — that's what Quinton® plasma contains.
Since I have been leading Biovie in 2007, I have seen hundreds of clients return to marine plasma after exhausting other solutions to regain their energy, improve their digestion, or speed up their sports recovery. This comprehensive guide answers all your questions: what it really is, what it is concretely used for, how to take Quinton® plasma — and most importantly, how to choose the right form for your situation.
What exactly is Quinton® plasma ?
A cold-filtered seawater, not an ordinary mineral water
Quinton® is a registered trademark, also we are not allowed to use this term in our product sheets. Nevertheless, we can talk about René Quinton and his discoveries. We often hear about seawater as if it were a common product. This is not at all the case with the Quinton® plasma, and the confusion often comes from there.
The essential difference is the harvesting and filtration protocol. A collection in the high seas, at more than 30 meters deep in areas with active plankton. Then a cold microfiltration — to 0.22 microns for culinary formats, to 0.01 microns for the purest health formats. No heat. No pasteurization. The reason is simple: heat destroys the biologically active micro-elements that give the product its full value.
It is also important to know that there are two distinct regulatory forms:
- Marine plasma ultrafiltered — harvested at 25 meters, filtered at 0.01 µm — packaged in glass bottles, intended for direct health consumption
- Marine plasma microfiltered — harvest at 3-4 meters, filtration at 0.22 µm — intended for culinary use
This point on regulation is important: only the first strictly adheres to the protocol inherited from the work of René Quinton, particularly regarding the level of filtration. This is not marketing — it is a distinction that European regulation itself establishes.
To go further on the mineral composition and the role of the Trace elements and cellular health, consult our dedicated article.
The story of René Quinton: the biologist who changed our view of the ocean
René Quinton was not an amateur naturopath. He was a rigorous biologist, whose work was published by Masson in Paris in 1904 in a foundational book: Seawater, organic environment. Its central thesis? The marine origin of cellular life means that our cells are immersed in an environment whose ionic composition is very similar to seawater — albeit diluted. It's a biological continuity, not a metaphor.
To validate this thesis, René Quinton conducted a spectacular experiment that is still cited today: he replaced a dog's blood plasma with diluted seawater. The animal not only survived but also recovered. These experiments from 1904 laid the foundations for a practice that continues to evolve more than a century later.
More recently, the study conducted in Nicaragua in 1991 confirmed the interest of this approach: after five months of consumption of 500 mL of seawater per day, malnourished children showed a significant improvement in their nutritional status (Durán Martínez et al., Quinton® archives). These data remain references in the literature on marine therapy.

The composition of Quinton® plasma: why 78 minerals change everything
Key active minerals and their specific role
Quinton® plasma is a registered trademark. The term "remineralization" is often mentioned without really explaining what it means biologically. Here's what actually happens.
The magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. The Calcium participates in muscle contraction and bone strength. The Potassium regulates water balance and nerve transmission. Theiodine is essential for the functioning of the thyroid (ANSES, 2021). The zinc supports immunity and healing. And then there are trace elements — manganese, selenium, copper, boron, silicon — present in infinitesimal quantities, but whose catalytic roles are absolutely essential.
In seawater, the entirety of the elements from Mendeleev's periodic table can actually be found — such as gold and silver — at exceedingly low concentrations, and it is precisely the right concentration for the biochemical reactions in our body to function properly.
What fundamentally distinguishes these minerals in the Quinton® plasma, is their bioavailability. In ionic form, they do not require any digestive transformation to enter the bloodstream.
To give you some numerical benchmarks:
- The Concentration of salts in natural seawater (hypertonic plasma): 33 to 35 g/L
- The isotonic form reduced to 9 g/L — that is the same concentration as your blood plasma
- A classic mineral water: 5 to 8 major minerals — Quinton® plasma offers 78+
Quinton Plasma® vs regular mineral water: the main differences
- Mineral diversity : mineral water, 5 to 8 minerals — Quinton® plasma, 78+ minerals and trace elements
- Chemical formula : mineral water, dissolved salts — Quinton® plasma, form ionically directly bioavailable
- Spectrum of trace elements : mineral water, variable traces — Quinton® plasma, full spectrum of the Mendeleev table
- Origin and protocol : mineral water, terrestrial source capture — Quinton® plasma, high sea, active plankton, cold microfiltration
What are the documented benefits of Quinton® plasma ?
For a comprehensive overview, also check out our article on the 10 benefits of seawater.
Remineralization and vitality: the most universal effect
This is the effect that the majority of our clients report first after a treatment of Quinton® plasma. An energy that returns, improved mental clarity, a general feeling of regained vitality.
Our modern lifestyle is a silent mineral disaster. Soils depleted by decades of intensive farming, ultra-processed foods, chronic stress that depletes magnesium, heavy sweating in athletes, medication use—all contribute to depleting our reserves. ANSES regularly publishes nutritional references that document these deficiencies in the French population: deficiencies in magnesium, zinc, iodine. These deficiencies are often silent, but their effects are felt: unexplained fatigue, irritability, nighttime cramps, disturbed sleep.
Quinton® plasma can help restore this mineral balance by simultaneously providing all the elements your cells require.
Digestive support and gut microbiota
The extracellular environment — the matrix in which all your cells, including those of the intestinal wall, are immersed — requires a precise mineral balance for digestive enzymes to function properly. The Quinton® plasma can support this rebalancing, which promotes better nutrient assimilation and normal functioning of the gut microbiota.
To delve deeper into this point, our article on how to improve nutrient absorption provides useful practical supplements.
Sports recovery and electrolytes
Here is a field where data is particularly well-documented. Athletes need electrolytes to maintain intracellular hydration, prevent cramps, optimize muscle contraction, and accelerate post-exercise recovery. Recent meta-analyses on electrolyte hydration and sports performance (Hartog et al., 2015; PubMed, 2020-2025) confirm the importance of complete mineral intake.
The problem with industrial sports drinks? They generally contain 3 to 4 synthetic electrolytes, with added sugars and flavors. The Quinton® hypertonic plasma offers the complete electrolyte spectrum — 78 minerals — without any additives.
The sports protocol I recommend:
- Before the effort : a hypertonic ampoule to stimulate and prepare the body
- During prolonged effort : isotonic diluted in water to maintain hydration and electrolytes
- After the effort : one to two ampoules of hypertonic solution to accelerate mineral recovery
Nervous system, stress, and sleep
Magnesium is the first nutrient whose deficiency manifests in the nervous system. Associated with calcium, potassium, and about ten other trace elements present in the Quinton® plasma, it can help rebalance the stress response and improve sleep quality. The effect is directly related to the restoration of the mineral environment—not to a sedative effect, but to a fundamental rebalancing.
Seasonal immunity
Zinc, selenium, and iodine—all present in Quinton® plasma—contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system. The EFSA (2011) has acknowledged that sufficient intake of zinc contribute to the proper functioning of the immune defenses, and that selenium plays a role in protecting cells against oxidative stress.
I want to be transparent here, as always: Quinton® plasma is not a medication. It does not treat anything, it does not cure anything. What it can do is restore a mineral balance conducive to the proper functioning of all these systems.
You can also read our article on the marine plasma for the skin for skin and cosmetic applications.
Isotonic or hypertonic plasma: which one is right for you ?
This is the number one question our clients ask me about the Quinton® plasma isotonic or hypertonic, which one to choose, and the response deserves to be clarified without jargon.
For a complete technical comparison, our article on the Difference between isotonic and hypertonic is the reference guide.
The Quinton® isotonic plasma (9 g/L) is diluted to the same concentration as your blood plasma. It is gentle, suitable for daily intake over the long term, with no duration restrictions. It is particularly suitable for vulnerable individuals, children over 3 years old, stressed or nervous individuals, and those who wish to maintain their mineral balance without strain.
The Quinton® hypertonic plasma (33-35 g/L) is seawater at its natural concentration, without dilution. More concentrated, more stimulating, it is recommended for a short course of 3 weeks for marked deficiencies, intensive sports recovery, or periods of deep fatigue.
To help you decide between Quinton® plasma isotonic or hypertonic :
- Choose the isotonic if you want a daily interview, if you are a sensitive person, or if you are a beginner
- Choose the hypertonic if you are an athlete, during a marked deficiency period, or in intensive recovery
- Simple rule : if you are still hesitating, start with the isotonic one — it is suitable for all profiles
How to take Quinton® plasma? Dosage and practical protocols
Daily dosage for a healthy adult
The Dosage of Quinton® plasma for adults the most common — and this is a consensus among practitioners — is on an empty stomach in the morning, via sublingual absorption: you keep the liquid in your mouth 30 seconds before swallowing. The oral mucosa directly absorbs ionic minerals into the bloodstream, without digestive transit.
- Quinton® isotonic water : 25 mL diluted in a glass of water
- Quinton® hypertonic water : 25 mL per day, pure or slightly diluted
Intensive Cure Protocol 3 Weeks (Hypertonic)
The classic protocol, used for decades:
- 3 weeks of treatment at a rate of 25 mL of Quinton® hypertonic plasma per day, in the morning on an empty stomach
- A one-week break between each treatment — this break is not optional
- Resumption as needed
Quinton® Plasma and athletes: before/during/after exercise
In athletes, marine plasma can contribute to a notable improvement in recovery, fewer cramps during exertion, and better thermal endurance. The detailed sports protocol is described in the section on sports recovery above.
Are there any contraindications to be aware of ?
The Contraindications of Quinton® plasma to know, in full transparency:
- Severe hypertension or severe renal insufficiency — the form hypertonic is not recommended
- Medically prescribed strict salt-free diet
- Children under 3 years old: hypertonic form not recommended
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: medical advice recommended as a precaution
The side effects of Quinton® plasma are rare with the isotonic form, generally well tolerated by everyone. If in doubt, talk to your doctor.
Hypertonic seawater in cooking: the salt shaker of the future ?
This is the angle I particularly like to develop because it completely changes the perception we have of seawater. We think of it as a "health supplement in a vial," and we overlook a daily use that might be even more powerful in the long term: replace salt in your cooking.
Why replace table salt with seawater ?
Refined table salt contains exactly two minerals: sodium and chlorine. The industrial refining process removes almost all trace elements. Seawater, on the other hand, offers you 78 minerals in ionic form, with naturally balanced sodium. To visualize the difference:
- Refined salt : 2 minerals (Na + Cl), very high sodium, low bioavailability
- Unrefined sea salt : 10 to 20 minerals, high sodium, medium bioavailability
- Biovie sea water (spray or bag-in-box): 78+ minerals, naturally balanced sodium, maximum ionic bioavailability
You can also discover how we use seawater in Lacto-fermentation with marine plasma to enrich fermented preparations.
The Biovie spray: how to use it daily to replace table salt
The hypertonic sea water spray Biovie is the simplest way to incorporate the benefits of marine minerals into your diet. Here are the uses I regularly practice as a substitute for table salt:
- Final seasoning on all cold preparations — salads, raw vegetables, carpaccios
- Marinades and sauces
- Vegetable juice and green smoothies — just a few presses are enough
- Raw soups and gazpachos
- Steam cooking — add at the end of cooking to preserve active minerals
The Biovie bag-in-box: the economical option for families and cooks
Our clients who use thesea water in a canister both in the kitchen and in mineral therapy have adopted our 15L or 20L bag-in-box. Frankly, it's hard to blame them.
The concrete advantages of this format:
- Cost per liter significantly lower than bulbs or small bottles
- Zero single-use plastic — coherent ecological approach
- Integrated faucet for direct use without handling
- Perfectly suited for daily cooking and family mineral treatment.
For cooking with hypertonic seawater : a practical ratio — one part seawater to four parts freshwater is enough to naturally salt your pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. You provide 78 minerals instead of 2.
Where to buy quality Quinton® plasma — and how not to make a mistake ?
The criteria for an authentic quality marine plasma
All products sold under the name " Quinton® sea water "are not equal. Here are the criteria to avoid getting caught:"
- Harvest depth : minimum 25 to 30 meters for health formats
- Cold microfiltration : indispensable — avoid hot-filtered or pasteurized products
- Harvest area traceability — Mediterranean or Atlantic, each origin has its characteristics
- Quality control : microbiological analyses, absence of heavy metals, compliance with European standards
- Glass packaging preferably for health formats
To choose between the two origins, our article on the Mediterranean or Atlantic marine plasma Compare the two sources in detail.
To know precisely where to buy quality seawater, we have written a comprehensive guide on distribution circuits.

Our Biovie selection
At Biovie, we select our Quinton® plasma according to these strict criteria since 2007. We know our suppliers, we visit the harvest sites, and we guarantee complete traceability of what you consume.
What our clients express better than I could:
"I buy seawater from Biovie! Great quality, I am delighted to have my Quinton® water. You can trust them!" — Eve C. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trustpilot
"I am very satisfied with Quinton® water. I have been drinking a glass on an empty stomach in the morning for 2 months." — Mr. G. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trustpilot
"Annual order of marine plasma. Fast delivery and quality product." — Denis L. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trustpilot
"I ordered microfiltered seawater and I am very satisfied with it. By joining their newsletter, I understood that ethics, quality, and humanity are their priorities." — Vladimir M. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trustpilot
"I only find certain products with them: morning sea water. Thanks to Biovie for everything they set up." — Dominique ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trustpilot
"What are the nutritional benefits of marine plasma?" — mineral composition and difference from table salt
"How is marine plasma collected in Ibiza?" — the ultrafiltered harvest protocol at 25 meters
"The marine plasma harvesting environment in Ibiza" — presence of active plankton and environmental guarantees
→ See our Biovie marine plasma products
Frequently Asked Questions about Quinton® Plasma
What are the real health benefits of Quinton® plasma ?
Quinton® plasma can contribute to cellular remineralization, support of the nervous system, balance of the intestinal microbiota, and improvement of sports recovery thanks to its 78 bioavailable ionic minerals and trace elements. The most reported effects by users include better energy, more restorative sleep, and improved digestion within a few weeks. These effects are explained by the restoration of the extracellular environment in which all our cells are immersed.
What is the difference between isotonic and hypertonic Quinton® plasma ?
The isotonic solution (9 g/L) is diluted to the same concentration as your blood plasma: ideal for gentle daily mineral maintenance, the nervous system, and vulnerable individuals. The hypertonic solution (33-35 g/L) is seawater at its natural concentration: more stimulating, it is recommended for a short 3-week course for marked deficiencies, sports recovery, or deep revitalization. In case of doubt, always start with the isotonic solution.
What are the contraindications of Quinton® plasma ?
The hypertonic form is not recommended in cases of severe hypertension, severe renal insufficiency, or a strict salt-free diet. Children under 3 years old should not consume the hypertonic form. Pregnant or breastfeeding women: medical advice is recommended as a precaution. In all cases, start with a half-dose for the first few days to assess individual tolerance.
How to take Quinton® plasma for best results ?
On an empty stomach in the morning, hold the liquid in the mouth for 30 seconds before swallowing (sublingual absorption). Isotonic: 25 mL diluted in a glass of water. Hypertonic: 25 mL, pure or slightly diluted. The most common practice is a 3-week course followed by a one-week break.
Can Quinton® plasma be taken every day ?
Yes, the isotonic form is suitable for daily use over the long term. The hypertonic form is used in courses of up to 3 weeks followed by a break.
Can Quinton® plasma help with a herniated disc or osteoarthritis ?
Practitioners of natural medicine use Quinton® plasma as support in joint and inflammatory pathologies. Ionic minerals — including magnesium, calcium, and trace elements — contribute to the normal functions of tissue regeneration. This is not a medical treatment: always consult your doctor for any diagnosed condition.
Where to buy authentic and quality Quinton® plasma ?
Prioritize traceable sources: harvesting in the high seas at more than 20 meters, areas with high active plankton, cold microfiltration without pasteurization. Biovie offers marine plasma selected according to these strict criteria, with complete transparency on the origin and protocol.
How to use hypertonic seawater in cooking to replace salt ?
Hypertonic seawater can completely replace refined salt in your preparations. The Biovie spray is used directly on dishes as a final seasoning. For cooking, incorporate seawater at the end of cooking to preserve the active minerals. For pasta or vegetables, a ratio of one part seawater to four parts fresh water is enough to naturally salt. You provide 78 minerals instead of 2.
The Biovie seawater bag-in-box: is it economical and practical ?
The Biovie bag-in-box (available in 15L and 20L) is the most economical solution for regular users in a culinary format. The integrated tap allows for direct use without handling. It is also the most environmentally friendly format: zero single-use plastic. Ideal for families who use seawater both in cooking and as a daily mineral cure.
Here — this guide does not claim to have said everything about Quinton® plasma. The science surrounding seawater is much broader, and René Quinton's work continues to inspire exciting contemporary research. What I wanted to provide here is a solid scientific foundation and honest practical guidelines — so that you can make informed choices, without jargon and without excessive promises.
Try it, and you'll love it !
Complete Plasma Series by Quinton®:
- Quinton® Hypertonic: benefits, dosage, instructions for use
- Quinton Water®: Dangers and Side Effects — The Truth
- Quinton® isotonic water: everything you need to know
Update: April 2026. Article approved by Éric Viard, founder of Biovie and engineer ISTOM, co-author of " Seaweed in everyday life "(Gallimard, 2024) —" Best cookbook in the world, Gourmand Cookbook Awards 2025, and Best cookbook in France, National Academy of Cuisine 2025.




