If you’re thinking sea moss sounds like another passing fad in the health industry, we don’t blame you – the thought of ingesting this sea veggie hardly sounds appetizing.
However, sea moss isn’t just another gimmicky trend. Its use is becoming increasingly popular amongst health-conscious people, and for good reason: this superfood contains a whopping 92 out of the 102 minerals that our bodies need to thrive.
But what is sea moss, and how does it play a part in holistic health? That’s what we’re talking about on the Just a Little Herb blog today.
What is Sea Moss?
Sea moss is a spiny sea vegetable found in the cold waters of the Atlantic coasts. When spotted in the wild, it looks a bit like frisée lettuce – spiky and frilly.
It comes in a number of colors – green, yellow, red, brown, and purple – and has been used by holistic healers for thousands of years. In fact, some evidence points to the use of sea moss in Chinese medicine as early as 600 B.C. To call it a passing trend would discredit a long history of cultural and medicinal use.
Sea moss boasts an exceptionally rich nutritional profile that’s packed with critical vitamins and minerals, including (but not limited to)…
- Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K
- Calcium
- Iodine
- Potassium iodide
- Phosphorus
- Sulfur
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Natural silica
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Copper
Although research is still lacking when it comes to sea moss benefits, it's indisputable that this sea vegetable contains a vast quantity of the various minerals and vitamins that keep our bodies healthy. Therefore, it stands to reason that calling it a vegan “superfood” isn’t an unfounded claim.
Of course, there are multiple kinds of organic sea moss you’ll likely find on the market. Let’s take a quick look at them and their subtle differences.
Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus)
This is by far the most widely known and commonly available type of sea moss. You can identify it by its distinct purplish-brown color, which is why it’s often referred to as “red algae). Unless grown in a lab, Irish sea moss is harvested from the wild waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Jamaican Sea Moss (Eucheuma cottonii)
Also known as Eucheuma sea moss, this species is native to the warm waters of the Caribbean. It is typically lighter in color, ranging from golden yellow to light brown, and known for its high gel content.
Gracilaria (Gracilaria spp.)
Gracilaria is a genus of red seaweed that includes several species. It is typically cultivated in Asia, although it can be found in other parts of the world, and has a more delicate texture than that of Irish moss.
Kappaphycus (Kappaphycus spp.)
Lastly, we have another genus of red seaweed that is commercially cultivated specifically for its carrageenan content. Kappaphycus species of sea moss are often used as thickening agents in various industries, including in food and drink.
The Holistic Health Benefits of Sea Moss
(1) Boosting Immunity
Hesitant to try yet another “immunity booster”? That’s understandable – it seems like every other brand is marketing some flashy new product that will keep us healthy year-round.
However, we do have real reasons to believe that sea moss might offer powerful support to our immune systems.
Because organic sea moss is rich in potassium chloride, some researchers have found that it can help reduce phlegm and inflammation in mucous membranes. In other words, it’s possible that sea moss serves as a natural antiviral and antimicrobial agent.
On another note, doctors have long encouraged people to ingest between 3,500 and 4,700 mg of potassium every day – especially if they are easily susceptible to illness. Most don’t consume that much on a regular basis, making sea moss an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
Note: like any other immunity-boosting ingredient, sea moss can’t support your immune system alone. It must be coupled with a balanced diet and generally healthy lifestyle to have any real impact on your wellness.
(2) Enhancing Digestion
The “mucilaginous” or snotty texture of sea moss might not seem appealing – but it might actually be good for your digestive system. Some users of sea moss gel have reported experiencing…
- Generally improved digestion
- Easier, more regular bowel movements
- Feeling lighter and less backed up
Furthermore, a 2015 study published in the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies journal indicated that sea moss had prebiotic side effects in animals during digestion. In quick summary, organic sea moss increased beneficial short-chain fatty acid in the colon while removing bad bacteria, thus improving overall gut health.
Additionally, sea moss contains a hefty dose of fiber, which is widely known for improving bowel regularity, increasing stool consistency, and reducing bloating and gas.
If you deal with frequent upset tummies or general digestive problems, talk to your healthcare professional about using sea moss as a natural aid. They’ll be able to walk you through the potential benefits, as well as any possible side effects or interactions with your other medications.
(3) Improving Skin and Hair Health
You’ll find sea moss included in many popular skincare and hair products on the market today. Because sea moss is so nutrient-rich, it’s thought that it can help promote healthy cell function, hydration, and elasticity in both skin and hair.
Many users apply organic sea moss gel directly to their skin to help with inflammation and moisture. Others choose to ingest it as a pill or mixed with their food. This is still a great way to ingest sea moss’s skin-supporting properties.
One of the biggest reasons many beauty gurus turn to sea moss is its sulfur content. When applied topically, sulfur-rich products can help eliminate unwanted microorganisms that contribute to acne. They may also be able to improve the overall quality and regeneration of fingernails, skin, and other tissues.
Other users turn to sea moss for its silicon. Although you might not hear many people talk about silicon, it plays a crucial role in the formation of collagen – the thing that keeps our skin elastic and youthful as we age.
By the time we are 21 years old, the amount of collagen in our skin has already dropped by one percent. From there, our collagen levels continue to drop by another one to two percent yearly, contributing to the formation of wrinkles and other signs of aging.
As a result, most women (and men) are looking for ways to keep their collage formation strong, and it’s possible that organic sea moss can help with that when consumed regularly.
(4) Aiding Weight Management
There’s no Holy Grail when it comes to shedding those frustrating extra pounds, but in conjunction with other healthy habits, it’s possible that sea moss can help you manage your weight.
For starters, consuming sea moss may help you stay full longer. It contains a substantial amount of fiber but is low in calories, so you feel satisfied for hours without going over your calorie intake goal.
Sea moss also contains a hefty dose of iodine, which can effectively help our body convert food into energy – preventing us from gaining unnecessary weight. Additionally, research indicates that sea moss may serve as a prebiotic, which would mean it contributes to a healthier gut microbiome and a lower overall risk of obesity.
Some studies even indicate that those who ate 1,000 milligrams of red seaweed daily experienced reduced body weight and lower total body fat mass – but more research is needed to fully confirm the role of sea moss in these results.
How to Incorporate Sea Moss into Your Diet
There are myriad ways to include sea moss in your regular diet. Some of the most popular choices are to…
- Eat a spoonful of sea moss gel by itself
- Blend sea moss gel in smoothies or juices
- Make sea moss “milk” and use it as a base for drinks or desserts
- Boil dried sea moss to create a tea
- Sprinkle dried sea moss on foods as a nutritious topping
Although many choose to ingest sea moss in its gel or dried form, that’s not the only way to reap its benefits. You can also take sea moss capsules, especially if you don’t like the taste or texture of sea moss in its original form.
How to Get the Strongest Benefits From Sea Moss
Ultimately, your consumption of sea moss is less about quantity or type and more about regularity. Most capsules are designed to be ingested daily, and you’re more likely to notice effects if you stick to a regular schedule.
Another critical factor is paying attention to where you source your sea moss. Some providers offer high-quality, wild-grown sea moss from trusted farmers – but others are quick to sell lab-grown, low-quality samples.
Make sure that you are buying your sea moss capsules or gels from a provider you can trust. Ask about their sourcing and shipping procedures, as well as the freshness of the sea moss they are selling.
Safety Precautions and Potential Side Effects
While sea moss is generally considered safe for consumption, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind. For that reason, we always recommend speaking with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement into your diet.
Allergies
Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to seaweed or carrageenan. If you have known allergies to seafood or other types of algae, exercise caution when consuming sea moss supplements, especially during your first trial.
Iodine Sensitivity
Individuals with iodine sensitivities or thyroid disorders should be mindful of their iodine intake via organic sea moss. Excessive iodine consumption may cause adverse effects on the thyroid gland.
Interactions with Medications
If you are taking any medications or have underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating sea moss into your diet. Sea moss may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and can affect their effectiveness.
Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
If you are trying to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding, please speak with your healthcare provider before ingesting sea moss. They will help you assess the potential risks (and benefits) of using a sea moss supplement during your condition.
The Wrap-Up
If you’re looking for a holistic way to increase your overall health, explore organic sea moss as part of a balanced approach to wellness. From its digestion benefits to its immunity-boosting properties, there’s a lot to be said about the latest superfood making headlines.
Not sure where to start with sea moss? Check out our easy-to-use sea moss capsules at Just a Little Herb. These don’t expire quickly and give you the perfect opportunity to experience sea moss benefits for yourself.