Where does sea moss come from?

Sea plants have been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for many years, due to their concentrated nutrient and antioxidant profile. Purple sea moss is a plant that grows naturally in certain areas of the ocean yet offers so many human health benefits.

Origin of Sea Moss

Sea moss is a type of thick purple/red sea algae or seaweed known scientifically as Chondrus Crispus. It grows naturally along the rocky Atlantic coasts between North America and Europe. The sea moss that grows in the warmer waters around the Caribbean, around Central and South America, Asia, and Africa, grows in a more naturally red color and is often called Irish sea moss or Jamaican purple sea moss.

Historians say that there’s evidence of people using sea moss for nearly 14,000 years. In fact, it appears that people in China were using it back in 600 BC. It was even an original source of nutrition in the British Isles near 400 BC. Sea moss has been cultivated off the coasts of Ireland as well, which is actually where the sea plant got its name.

Carrageenan and Sea moss

Sea moss is a natural source of a compound called carrageenan, which has been widely used in the food and beverage industry as a thickening agent. The name “carrageenan” comes from a cape in Northern Ireland called Carrigan Head, inspired by the Irish word “carraingin” which means “little rock”.

Just a couple of centuries ago, people were using sea moss for its carrageenan in effort to cure infections and congestion in both humans and animals alike. To get the carrageenan from it, the sea moss was harvested from the ocean shores and laid flat to dry in the sun. It was then washed and boiled before use. Some even used it as a thickener for Irish pudding.

Sea moss is so nutrient rich that it became an even more potent source of nutrients during the 1800s amidst the Irish Potato Famine. During this time, mass starvation and disease swept across parts of Ireland between 1845-1849. Many people used red seaweed, added to warmed milk with sugar and spices like nutmeg to make their own nutrient-enriched beverage when options were scarce. Interestingly, this sea moss drink is still consumed by people in Ireland and the Caribbean.

Fast Forward to today and now sea moss is used globally, primarily for its carrageenan content. It is used widely in the food industry and as a stabilizing agent, emulsifier, and thickener in some of your favorite household staples. For example, carrageenan has been used in a variety of non-dairy milks like almond, coconut, and hemp milk, various coffee creamers, frozen foods, canned soup, and some types of yogurt.

Because of its global use and growing popularity, seamoss is now grown and harvested in other countries like the United States and China. Seamoss has also helped pioneer its use in supplemental, personal care, and beauty products that countless people love. This way, you can reap the benefits of sea moss in ways that align with your everyday lifestyle.

Why People Love Sea Moss

While purple Jamaican sea moss has been used medicinally and nutritionally in smaller cohorts of local populations for centuries, it’s been primarily harvested for its carrageenan content on a commercial basis. Purple sea moss has been harvested and prepared for use in personal care and beauty products as well as dietary supplements. Sea moss has been proven to improve energy levels, better blood pressure, stronger immunity, and enhanced in and outer beauty.

While sea moss may have originated in the rocky waters near the coast of Jamaica and Ireland, it’s proven itself throughout centuries to have numerous uses and benefits. Today you can appreciate its rich history while enjoying its benefits in forms that fit your modern lifestyle.

Benefits

92 of 102 Minerals

Eases Joint Pain

Boost Metabolism

Supports Heart Health

Helps Control Appetite

It’s A Natural Decongestant

Eliminates Excess Mucous

Enhances Thyroid Function

Soothes The Digestive Tract

Provides Remarkable Nutrition

Promotes Mental and Emotional Health

Supports Immune System and Fights Infection

Supports Hair, Skin, and Nails

Increases Sexual Performance

Great For Post Workout Recovery

Aids Weight Loss by Suppressing Appetite

Removes Toxins and Heavy Metals

Relief From Flu and Cold Symptoms

Strengthening Joint and Connective Tissues

Improves Sleep

Assist With Allergies

Combats Halitosis

Improves Sleep

Purifies the Blood

Helps Regulate Blood Pressure

Healthier Lungs Improves Breathing