Irish Sea Moss Gel

Wildcrafted Sea Moss, or Irish Moss, is used for both culinary and nutritional purposes (made popular by Dr. Sebi). Learn all about this seaweed and its benefits, uses, how to prepare sea moss gel, and how much to take daily. 

Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, has gained popularity recently as a dietary supplement, though it’s been used for centuries for its vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

In this article, you’ll learn about sea moss history, health benefits, how much to take daily, and how to make and use sea moss gel. With over 92 of the 110 minerals the body needs, it’s no wonder this seaweed is considered a superfood and so adored in natural wellness. 

What is Irish Sea Moss? 

Sea moss (Chondrus crispus) is a type of red seaweed that’s harvested on the Atlantic coasts near Ireland, Europe, and the United States. Its first known use was during the potato famine in Ireland during the 1800s when people began eating the red algae on the beach. This is where the name Irish Moss originated. 

Known as “the collagen of the sea,” it is often used for culinary purposes as a thickening agent or gelatin substitute. Its also been referred to as carrageen moss, as it’s naturally high in carageen. Carrageenan is a common food stabilizer and thickener in foods like almond milk and low-fat ice cream. 

It’s also used as a dietary supplement that’s available in powder, capsule, gel, and dried form. Dr. Sebi, a popular herbalist, gets credit for sharing the nutritional benefits. You will find some packages labeled “wildcrafted sea moss” and that simply means it was grown and harvested in the wild, rather than in man-made pools. 

The most common preparation is in gel form, which is easy to make at home. Once prepared the gel is nearly flavorless and can be added to beverages and more. 

What are the Health Benefits? 

More research is needed to confirm the health benefits of sea moss, but there are some well-known wellness properties. As a reminder, these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and should not replace professional medical advice. 

Seaweed in general is known to be very healthy, as it’s high in nutrients such as iodine. With around 92 vitamins and minerals, Chondrus crispus is rich in iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sulfur. 

1. Immune Support 

According to this study, Chondrus crispus was found to have antiviral and antitumor properties in animals and humans. 

2. Healthy Skin & Hair 

Irish moss is often used in beauty products, as like aloe vera, it’s naturally very soothing and protects the skin’s natural moisture barrier. 

3. Respiratory Support 

According to Gaia Herbs, Irish moss is often added to supplements that support internal mucous membranes, such as the upper respiratory system. 

4. Detox

We have many detox drink recipes here such as our Apple Cider Vinegar Drink, Detox Water, and more. Sea moss is often said to be a wonderful supplement for supporting detoxification. According to many sea moss growers, the high potassium chloride content naturally works to draw toxins from cells, though I have not found any studies corroborating this.  

5. Gut Health

Studies have shown that the prebiotic effects of red sea moss may help support a healthy gut, which is important for both digestion and the immune system. 

6. Energy 

Sea moss is high in iron. Low levels of iron can lead to fatigue. If low iron is an issue for you, try incorporating some sea vegetables into your diet. 

7. Weight Loss 

Iodine is an essential mineral that supports thyroid hormone production, and therefore metabolism, among other things. Seaweed is one way to consume iodine, but it’s important to consume the right amount of iodine. 

The thickening nature of sea moss may also aid in satiety, similar to chia and flax seeds.  

How Much to Take Daily

Take 1 to 2 tablespoons of sea moss gel, preferably mixed into a juice, smoothie, or protein shake, per day. 

Side Effects & Cautions 

Sea moss is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, as there haven’t been many human studies, ask your doctor if you have any concerns.

Furthermore, it is a high-iodine food, and too much iodine can be unsafe and cause thyroid problems. If you have a thyroid disorder, or already take any supplements containing iodine, you should definitely speak with your doctor first. 

How to Make Sea Moss Gel

Making the gel is very simple. It comes down to rinsing and rehydrating the dried moss, which transforms into very gelatinous strands. It’s then blended in a blender with a little water until smooth and creamy. You’ll find the dried moss packaged and available in health food stores or online. 

How to Use 

Sea moss gel can be added to a number of foods and used topically! It will thicken whatever you add it to, however. One of the most popular uses is in a traditional Jamaican sweet creamy drink. I recommend using a blender to mix the gel into smoothies and other beverages. You can whisk it, but some gelly pieces will remain, much like Aloe Vera Juice. Here are even more ways to use it:

• smoothies
• acai bowls 
• juices
• oatmeal 
• chia pudding
• soups
• fruit preserves
• sauces
• egg replacer 
• topically as a moisturizer 
• as a hair conditioning mask or gel 

Continue to Content

Yield: 1 1/4 cups

Easy Sea Moss Gel

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, has been used for centuries for its nutritious health benefits and culinary uses. Made popular in modern times by Dr. Sebi, it contains high amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may support the immune system and more. Here's how to make sea moss gel to mix into drinks and more.

Print

Ingredients

• 1 heaping cup packed dried sea moss
• Water

Instructions

1. Remove about 1 heaping cup of dried sea moss from the package and rinse thoroughly. There may be some ocean debris such as sand and salt.
2. Transfer to a large bowl and cover with warm water. Let the sea moss soak in the warm water for about 20 minutes. Rinse a second time.
3. Place the soaked and rinsed sea moss into a large pot and cover with water. Set over high heat and bring to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and let soak in the hot water for 20 minutes. The moss will turn into gelatinous strands of translucent yellow seaweed.
5. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the soft moss and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add ¼ cup of filtered water and blend until very smooth and creamy. Add more water as needed, depending on how thick you'd like the gel. The typical ratio is 1 cup rehydrated sea moss to ¼ cup water.
6. Use a rubber spatula to transfer the smooth sea moss gel to a lidded glass food storage container such as a Mason jar.
7. Let cool, then refrigerate, covered for up to 3 weeks. Sea moss gel can also be frozen for up to 1 year.

Notes

How to Use

• Add 1-2 tablespoons of prepared sea moss gel to juices or smoothies. I recommend using a blender to mix into beverages.
• Mix into soups, stews, and oatmeal.
• It can also be used as an egg replacer or thickening agent.
• Use topically as a skin and hair moisturizer.

No-Heat Method

Some people prefer not to use any heat when making sea moss gel. For this method, soak rinsed sea moss in warm water for 8-36 hours. Rinse again and blend with 1 ½ to 2 cups water.

Recommended Products

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• 
  Organic Sea Moss Dried Irish Sea Moss - Natural Wildcrafted, Pure, Non-GMO & Gluten-Free Sea Moss - Makes Perfect 5 Jars Of Sea Moss Gel - Support Bones & Joints, & Immune System - 4 oz

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 10 Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 5Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 7mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated by Nutritionix. I am not a nutritionist and cannot guarantee accuracy. If your health depends on nutrition information, please calculate again with your favorite calculator.

Gaia Herbs

Dr. Axe