“Irish moss is a superfood that has recently gained widespread popularity after glowing endorsements from celebrities like Kim Kardashian,” says Jessica Cho, MD, the founder of Wellness at Century City, her personal practice in Los Angeles.
AntibacterialAntiviralAnti-tumorAnti-thromboticAnticoagulantAnti-hyperlipidemicImmunomodulatory
Below are some of the other proposed health benefits associated with sea moss that may warrant further studies in humans. Keep in mind that the data so far mostly comes from studies in animals, not people, and some of the purported perks are only theoretical and require further research to be confirmed.
Improved Gut Health
The studies that have focused on sea moss in particular primarily support the idea that the when consumed in supplement form, this algae may benefit gut health, says Kristin Kirkpatrick, RDN, who is with the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute based in Denver, Colorado. Sea moss contains prebiotic mucilage, a type of fiber that provides food with beneficial gut microbes, which may in turn promote gut health.
Stronger Immunity
Supported Weight Loss
May Boost Heart Health
Lower Likelihood of Developing Certain Cancers
Stronger Treatment Against HPV Infection
Healthier Skin
Sea moss also appears to be growing in popularity as an ingredient in natural skin care products, though research into this use is lacking. In addition to its nutrients and antioxidants, sea moss contains sulfur, which can help treat acne as well as fungal and yeast infections of the skin, says Karan Lal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey. Amino acids in the moss, such as arginine, may also benefit the skin by promoting the replacement of dead skin cells, Dr. Lal says.
A more established concern is that seaweed including sea moss may negatively affect thyroid health. “If taken excessively or in combination with iodine-containing food sources, it can lead to iodine toxicity,” Gillespie explains. “Too much iodine can have a negative impact on thyroid function, so many endocrinologists recommend avoiding iodine supplementation completely unless medically indicated.”
Instructions for Making Sea Moss Gel at Home
Following instructions from GoodFoodBaddie is a good place to start if you want to DIY sea moss gel. You’ll rinse and soak dried sea moss for at least 12 hours, before blending it with the soak water until you achieve the desired consistency. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. From there, you can add it to soups, smoothies, and other recipes for a nutrient boost in a healthy, balanced diet. For an updated twist, try the recipe for a Vegan Jamaican Irish Sea Moss Drink from The Urben Life, which blends sea moss gel with dairy-free milk and dates for sweetness, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla add a touch of spice.
How to Use Sea Moss in Your Skin Care Routine
Sea moss gel also makes a great base for other fun, DIY skin care masks. Six recipes from sustainability-focused blog Treehugger combine sea moss gel with skin-loving ingredients like honey, charcoal, and aloe vera for 10 to 30 minute skin care treatments. Additional reporting by Laura McArdle.
