Sea Moss Benefits: A Natural Supplement

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The ocean is often a source of natural remedies, and sea moss is no exception. Sea moss is a red algae found along the Atlantic Coast and in parts of Europe. It is a common product in the wellness community due to several sea moss benefits, including for the thyroid and immune system. Along with its health benefits, there are multiple ways to use sea moss and specific places to buy the best-quality product.

What is Sea Moss?

Sea moss’s scientific name is Chondrus crispus, but it is also known as Irish moss or red seaweed, depending on which part of the world it is in. The moss grows year-round, making it a reliable source of nutrients. It is typically found in North America, but parts of Europe and the British Isles also have sea moss. Traditionally, people from Irish and Caribbean cultures used the moss for medicinal purposes. It is still commonly found in shops across the Caribbean. 

Wellness communities are utilizing sea moss’s nutritional benefits. People view sea moss as a remedy because of its mineral content. It contains iodine, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and various vitamins as well. People can buy it in multiple forms, depending on how they consume it. Some buy it raw while others prefer it in gel or powder form. Sea moss enthusiasts can also get it in a capsule, similar to a supplement. 

Health Benefits of Sea Moss

Regardless of sea moss’s form, its health benefits, similar to those of seaweed, cover several areas of the human body. The following are some specific body parts and ailments that sea moss can help with.

For the Thyroid

Sea moss helps the thyroid, contributing to metabolism and overall bodily health. Its high iodine content supports thyroid hormone production, facilitating its functions. While the thyroid works well on its own, any additional help is beneficial. However, humans should be wary of excessive iodine intake, as it can have adverse health effects. Still, sea moss is a natural way to help the thyroid create much-needed hormones.

For the Immune System

Sea moss’s antiviral and antimicrobial properties help the human body’s immune system, effectively fighting off infections and clearing phlegm. Minor infections can lead to serious ailments, so finding ways to eliminate them early is beneficial. Also, people with a lot of phlegm buildup may develop a cough or see their illness worsen. Sea moss can prevent these eventualities by assisting the immune system.

For the Gut

To support gut health, sea moss delivers beneficial bacteria to the gut, helping it function properly. Another gut benefit is sea moss’s gelatinous texture. It can soothe the digestive tract and make digestion easier. People with constipation may consider sea moss as a natural alternative to over-the-counter digestive medicines. 

For Skin and Hair

Sea moss also helps the skin and hair. Its various minerals and vitamins help the body produce collagen, which makes skin, hair and nails healthier. For skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, sea moss can reduce symptoms and prevent larger blemishes or itchy patches. While the ideal form of sea moss for eczema remains unclear, people generally prefer a cream or gel texture for their skin.  

For Parkinson’s Disease

A few small studies suggest that sea moss may slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease symptoms. No clear, detailed studies exist that prove this theory, but some sea moss extracts have slowed the stiffness commonly associated with the disease. However, this theory needs a lot more research before it becomes a serious remedy for Parkinson’s disease symptoms. 

How to Add Sea Moss to Diets

People use sea moss in their daily diets because it serves as a vegan and gluten-free way to deliver nutrients to the body. While it is common in the wellness community, anyone can reap the benefits when they prepare the moss correctly.

Consuming Sea Moss in Multiple Ways

Once sea moss is ready for consumption, there are multiple ways people use it. One way is to mix it with water and place it in a smoothie or juice, adding a healthy ingredient to a drink on the go. Another way is mixing it into soups or sauces, either eating the soup alone or pouring a sea moss-filled sauce over pasta or salad. For desserts, some people use sea moss as a vegan thickening agent because it contains carrageenan.

Stores also sell sea moss as supplements, typically in gummy or powder form. While other methods preserve the “fishy” taste of sea moss, supplements are usually tasteless. People should only consume a few tablespoons of sea moss a day. Some gradually increase it, but a small amount to begin is the best method. 

Turning Raw Sea Moss Into Gel

To turn raw sea moss into gel, the following is one method people commonly use.

• Soak the moss in cold water for many hours. Sometimes, this process takes an entire day.
• Change the water and remove dirt. This process is ongoing as the moss soaks. It is a good way to remove any extra residue and prevent the consumption of toxic substances.
• Take the moss out of the water. To know when the moss is ready, it should double in size and look white and jelly-like. 
• Blend the moss until it is smooth. Combine the moss with water and place in a blender until the gel looks relatively smooth. 
• Refrigerate for a few hours to thicken. The fridge’s temperature determines the length of this step. Continuously check the moss until it looks thick enough.
• Store in the fridge for continued use. After the moss is thick and jelly-like, it can be used for its desired purpose. After a week or two in the refrigerator, it is no longer in ideal condition.

People without raw sea moss can purchase sea moss and sea moss supplements at the store. This is a method for people looking to convert the moss themselves. There are other methods as well, but this is a popular one in the wellness community.

Where to Find High-Quality Sea Moss

The quality of sea moss is vital for obtaining supplemental benefits without consuming toxic substances. The sea moss should be wildcrafted from clean waters, as sea moss near polluted or sewage-filled areas may contain harmful metals that humans should not consume.

In addition to finding high-quality sea moss, it is already present in several everyday objects. In food, sea moss can be found in ice cream, cottage cheese and sometimes even infant formula. It is also in some toothpastes. Some people can simply buy products containing sea moss, but others prefer to seek it out themselves.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions With Sea Moss

There are a few adverse side effects to eating sea moss. People should be wary of overconsumption, as excessive iodine from sea moss can harm organs like the thyroid rather than help them. The carrageenan in sea moss can also degrade, making it toxic and unsuitable for consumption. In extreme cases, some sea moss can cause inflamed intestines, stomach and bowel cancer, or stomach ulcers. While these side effects are typically due to improper sea moss maintenance, it is good to be aware of them.

A Healthy Supplement From the Ocean

Sea moss offers many health benefits, providing a natural alternative to mineral and vitamin supplementation. When consumed and maintained correctly, wellness communities and people practicing healthy habits can incorporate sea moss into their daily lifestyle to experience these benefits. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before adding sea moss to routines, as it can have a few adverse side effects. However, sea moss overall is a healthy way to get nutrients and improve bodily functions.