Article by Bryn Morgan & Colin Douglas

We have used Irish Moss seaweed for many years now. We use it in our raw desserts to help add structure and a mellifluous texture giving our “cheese” cakes a smooth silky texture. Over the years Irish Moss has been more difficult to source in Australia and is now quite expensive. We do sell it in our shop at Crystal Creek.

Irish Moss, scientifically known as Chondrus crispus, is a type of red algae that grows along the rocky Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America. This seaweed has been used for centuries in various cultures, particularly in Ireland, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia, for its wide array of health benefits, as well as its versatility in culinary applications.

In recent years, Irish Moss has gained significant popularity as a superfood, especially in plant-based diets. From smoothies to skincare, Irish Moss is being recognized not just for its rich nutrient profile, but also for its potential medicinal properties.

What is Irish Moss Seaweed?

Irish Moss is a type of seaweed that thrives in cold, nutrient-dense ocean waters. It is rich in minerals like iodine, calcium, magnesium, and iron, as well as vitamins like A, C, and K. The name “Irish Moss” is somewhat misleading, as it is not actually a type of moss, but rather an algae. Despite its misleading name, Irish Moss has been a part of folk medicine for centuries due to its numerous health benefits.

How is Irish Moss Made?

Irish Moss is typically harvested from coastal areas by hand. After it is collected, it undergoes a thorough cleaning process to remove sand, debris, and any other impurities. The seaweed is then dried in the sun or through controlled dehydration processes, which preserves its nutrients and extends its shelf life. Once dried, Irish Moss can be rehydrated, turned into a gel, or powdered for various uses.

To prepare Irish Moss gel, the dried seaweed is soaked in water, then blended into a smooth, gelatinous texture. This gel can be consumed as a supplement or used in various recipes. When rehydrated, Irish Moss expands and becomes a natural thickener, much like agar-agar or gelatin, making it popular in vegan cooking.

How is Irish Moss Used?

Irish Moss has a wide variety of uses, both culinary and medicinal.

1. Culinary Uses:

• Smoothies: Irish Moss gel can be added to smoothies to provide a creamy texture and boost of nutrients.
• Soups and Stews: Irish Moss can be used as a natural thickening agent, similar to gelatin.
• Desserts: It is often used in vegan desserts like puddings, ice creams, and even plant-based jellies. We use it in our raw “cheesecake” desserts, sauces and our dehydrated raw wraps.
• Beverages: Irish Moss can be combined with other herbs and fruits to create nutritious drinks like tonics or teas.

2. Skincare:

The high vitamin and mineral content of Irish Moss makes it a popular ingredient in skincare products. Its soothing properties can help hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote a youthful glow. Many commercial beauty brands use Irish Moss in lotions, serums, and face masks.

3. Supplements:

Irish Moss can be consumed in capsule or powder form as a supplement for general health. It is often marketed for its immune-boosting properties, digestive support, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Health Benefits of Irish Moss

Irish Moss has earned its reputation as a superfood, thanks to its impressive nutrient profile and potential health benefits. Below are some of the most well-researched advantages of incorporating Irish Moss into your diet:

1. Supports Digestive Health:

Irish Moss contains prebiotic fibers that can help support a healthy gut microbiome. These fibers act as food for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients. Research has shown that certain seaweeds, like Irish Moss, can help improve gut health by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria (Baxter et al., 2016).

2. Boosts Immune Function:

The vitamins and minerals in Irish Moss—particularly Vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc—play crucial roles in maintaining a healthy immune system. Studies indicate that seaweed like Irish Moss may help modulate immune response, improving the body’s ability to fight off infections (Meyer et al., 2019).

3. Promotes Skin Health:

Irish Moss has natural hydrating properties, making it beneficial for dry or irritated skin. The seaweed’s antimicrobial properties also help reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it useful for conditions like eczema and psoriasis. A study published in Dermatitis found that seaweed extracts, including Irish Moss, can significantly improve skin hydration and elasticity (Slade et al., 2015).

4. Rich in Essential Minerals:

Irish Moss is loaded with essential minerals, including iodine, which is vital for thyroid health. Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid dysfunction, so consuming seaweed like Irish Moss can help support healthy thyroid function (Zimmermann, 2009). Additionally, it contains calcium, magnesium, and iron, all of which are important for bone health, muscle function, and oxygen transport.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

Irish Moss is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Chronic inflammation is linked to many health conditions, including heart disease and arthritis. Seaweed has been shown to reduce inflammation, promoting overall health (Duffy et al., 2012).

6. Promotes Weight Loss:

Some studies suggest that Irish Moss may aid in weight loss by reducing the absorption of fats and sugars in the digestive system. Its high fiber content can also help promote feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake (Moorhead et al., 2015).

Conclusion

Irish Moss is a nutrient-dense seaweed that has numerous health benefits, including digestive support, immune function enhancement, skin hydration, and more. Whether consumed as a gel in smoothies, incorporated into vegan desserts, or applied topically in skincare products, Irish Moss offers an array of uses to improve your overall well-being.

While Irish Moss is generally considered safe for most people, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have thyroid issues or are pregnant. As research on this incredible seaweed continues, we can expect even more discoveries about its potential to improve health and support sustainable living.

References:

• Baxter, R., et al. (2016). “Seaweed Prebiotics and their Impact on Human Gut Microbiota.” Food Research International.
• Duffy, N., et al. (2012). “Anti-inflammatory Effects of Marine Algae: A Review.” Phytochemistry.
• Meyer, A., et al. (2019). “Impact of Seaweed Consumption on Human Health.” Marine Drugs.
• Moorhead, D., et al. (2015). “The Effect of Seaweed Supplements on Weight Management.” International Journal of Obesity.
• Slade, A., et al. (2015). “The Role of Seaweed in Skin Hydration.” Dermatitis.
• Zimmermann, M. B. (2009). “Iodine Deficiency in Industrialized Countries.” Thyroid.

Whether you’re looking for a natural way to improve your diet or add a new ingredient to your skincare routine, Irish Moss is a versatile and powerful addition to your health regimen.