Everything Sea Moss
WHAT IS SEA MOSS?
There are two popular commercialized variants of Sea Moss, Genus Gracilaria (warm water Sea Moss) and Chrondrus Crispus (cool water Sea Moss). It is a macro-algae, a seaweed. Sea moss has been used as an inexpensive source of nutrients for many centuries. It was particularly critical for farmers during the Irish Potato Famine who used it to create a sustaining nutrient-rich drink which is still consumed today.
One of the most valuable nutrients in Sea Moss is called carrageenan, a complex carbohydrate commonly used food thickener. In traditional Irish culture, carrageenan was believed to be able to cure the common cold and flu, leading the Irish to add it to many foods and beverages. It is a primary ingredient in traditional Irish pudding and is still widely used in many recipes in Ireland.
Today, Sea Moss continues to be harvested for its carrageenan. It is used to thicken products like ice cream, chocolate milk, and protein shakes. It is important to mention that carrageenan has come under fire recently, accused of causing digestive issues and inflammation. But, there are two types of carrageenan, food grade and degraded.
The Sea Moss benefits go beyond just being used as a food thickener. It is rich in many minerals and anti-inflammatory compounds. Research is just starting to evaluate this nutrient-dense sea plant for all it could possibly do for human health.
Although sea moss has been used for centuries, recent interest in its health benefits were revitalized by Dr. Sebi a popular celebrity herbalist. With its growing popularity, scientists are beginning to evaluate some of the possible purple moss benefits.
Both Gold and Purple Sea Moss naturally contain 92 minerals of the 102 minerals known to make up the human body for optimal daily cellular function. It is found along the Atlantic seaboard and the Caribbean. It is truly a superfood!
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GENUS GRACILARIA & CHONDRUS CRISPUS?
Genus Gracilaria has a fingered relatively thin string like look to it. The color is usually a yellow golden color, however this can vary. It may have a mix of darker hues and not all will be the same golden color. Beacuase nature tends to vary, this is quite normal. Sea Moss can be seen in blue and purples color hues. Genus Gracilaria grows in warmer climate such as the Caribbean while Chondrus Crispus grows around the coast of Ireland, Great Britain, Maine, Canada and other places where there are cooler waters.
HOW DOES SEA MOSS GROW?
Pool Grown Sea Moss grows on ropes in unnatural waters and will be devoid of nutrients. Ocean-Farmed Sea Moss grows on ropes as well. Although, it is grown in the natural sea and isn’t tampered with until time of harvest. It can still retain a lot of nutrients. Not as much as wild-crafted but way more than pool grown Sea Moss. A farm-raised product doesn't mean it is harmful or devoid of nutrients. Pool Farmed sea moss is different than Ocean Farmed Sea Moss.
NOTE: Farming becomes necessary because of the increased demand for a product. This can help prevent depleting natural resources from the sea which disrupts the ecosystem. While wild plants will always be superior; same as wild-crafted Sea Moss, it is superior. However, if grown in clean waters, it can still retain a lot of nutrients.
Irish Moss (Chondrus Crispus) only grows on rocks. It can’t grow on ropes which is why it’s not often farmed and why supply can be limited. Both species grow on rocks. However, Genus Gracilara can grow on ropes too.
It is very likely that some of Genus Gracilaria labeled “Wild Crafted” is really farm-raised but done so sustainably and ethically in clean natural ocean water; not pools. Which I believe still makes it a decent option.
COLOR DIFFERENCES
Orange and yellow: Provide beta cryptothanxin, which supports intracellular communication and may help prevent heart disease. Found in: carrots, sweet potatoes, yellow peppers, oranges, bananas, pineapple, tangerines, mango, pumpkin, apricots, winter squash (butternut, acorn), peaches, cantaloupe, corn.
Blue and purple: Have powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins believed to delay cellular aging and help the heart by blocking the formation of blood clots. Found in: blueberries, blackberries, elderberries, Concord grapes, raisins, eggplant, plums, figs, prunes, lavender, purple cabbage.
NUTRIENTS
CONTAINS: Iodine, Zinc, Calcium, Potassium, Sulfur, Iron, Silica, Selenium, Phosphorus Acid, Manganese, B-Complex Vitamins, Magnesium, Folate, Copper, Amino Acids, Sodium, Nitrogen, Soluble Potash, Boron, Carbohydrates (Alginic Acid, Mannitol & Laminarin) & Vitamins A, C, D, E, & K and more.
BENEFITS INCLUDE
Increased energy, boost & supports immune system, expels excess mucus from the body, helps thyroid function, aides in digestion, regulates appetite, anemia relief, relieves respiratory ailments, prebiotic, probiotic, detoxes the body of toxins, speed muscle recovery, strengthens joints & bones, nourishes skin & skin, improves sexual health & fertility, anti-inflammatory & anti-viral.
PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, women tend to become nutrient deficient & can at times experience health difficulties. Consuming Sea Moss is understood that it helps with the fetus' development & keeping the mother healthy and strong. Sea Moss contains iodine and should be avoided by those who are currently taking iodine supplements or have a seafood allergy. Consult your OBGYN if pregnant as your prenatal vitamins may contain the Iodine you need already. Too much iodine can harm your unborn child. After the baby is born, Sea Moss continues to provide nutrients from the amniotic fluid during breastfeeding.
TOPICAL USE
Sea Moss offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help with issues like acne and aging skin, says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. "It's rich in sulfur, which is known to lower levels of micro-organisms on the skin and soothe inflammation.”
USAGE & STORAGE
The recommended daily dose of Sea Moss is 1-2 tablespoons or 4 to 8 grams per day. This level of dosage should allow users to see the benefits without noticing too much of the potential side effects. It is recommended that anyone with higher than normal levels of iodine should avoid taking Sea Moss in any form.1 tbsp of this gel can be taken in coffee, tea, smoothies, with coconut milk (and a few spices such as nutmeg & cinnamon & then sweeten to taste), as thickener in soups & gravy, in desserts, as part of salad dressings and more! The possibilities are endless because the seaweed has little to no smell or flavor!
Gel can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 45 days & in the freezer for up to 365 days.
SIDE EFFECTS
Though Sea Moss is generally believed to be healthy for human consumption, certain side effects can follow. Sea Moss contains large amounts of iodine, a substance known for promoting thyroid health. Too much iodine can result in thyroid dysfunction or harm. Some studies say too much iodine could result in thyroid cancer.
As a precaution, people should monitor the amount of sea moss they consume and stray from eating large amounts at a time. Talking to a medical professional before incorporating Irish sea moss to the diet is another safety precaution to take.
Other side effects of using or consuming Sea Moss may include:
- Burning or reddening skin
- Itchy or irritated skin
- Nausea and/or vomiting
If you experience any of these side effects, inform your doctor and stop the use of Sea Moss immediately.