Purple Sea Moss, also known as Irish Moss, has been gaining immense popularity recently. This is no surprise. Sea Moss has been endorsed by Dr. Sebi, Kim Kardashian and many other popular personalities. This and the fact that this nutrient dense herb boosts the immune system, is bound to spark interest during a global pandemic.
Although it has just recently become trendy. sea moss has been used for centuries for its medicinal and nutritional benefits. If you’re looking to find out more about purple sea moss, you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll be discussing purple sea moss benefits and side effects. As well as the many ways you can use the herb.
But first, for those of you who may not be aware, let’s get into what exactly purple sea moss is.
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What is Purple Sea Moss?
Purple Sea Moss is a type of seaweed with a reddish or purple pigmentation. There are two varieties of purple sea moss. One that is found in warmer waters, and scientifically known as Gracilaria. The other is found in waters of colder climates such as Ireland, and is known as Chondrus Crispus,
Gracilaria is the more common of the two varieties and is available and harvested year round. It is found in tropical waters around the world, most notably around Jamaica and St. Lucia. It grows naturally on rocks on the ocean floor and is also farmed in pools.
While the Chondrus Crispus variety is far less common and found in colder climates such as around Great Britain and Canada. Unlike Gracilaria, Chondrus Crispus is only found on rocks and is not farmed. It can only be harvested during the summer months, making it a much harder to find option.
Purple Sea Moss that is harvested from its natural habitat is known as wildcrafted. It is harvested by divers directly from the rocks on the ocean floor. It is more sought after then it’s farmed counterpart. As it is deemed a more natural and healthier option.
Both varieties of purple sea moss are nutrient dense. They have been used for centuries for their high nutritional content. Nowadays, Purple Sea Moss is readily available in gels, powder, gummies,capsules as well as the original raw herb.
Purple Sea Moss Benefits
Purple Sea Moss possesses a variety of benefits both when consumed and applied topically. Sea Moss is said to contain 92 minerals and 15 of the 18 essential minerals that the body requires.
Below I have compiled a list of purple sea moss benefits. When you incorporate purple sea moss into your diet and skin care regimen, you can expect to experience some or all of the following:
1. Improves Mental Health:
Purple Sea Moss contains high levels of both potassium, magnesium and zinc. The consumption of these minerals are linked to improvements in cognitive behavior and function.
Sea Moss is also a rich source of B vitamins which are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. As well as energy production and in reducing symptoms related to stress.
Additionally, it contains iodine, which is important for thyroid health. An overactive thyroid can lead to depression and anxiety.
2. Detoxifies the Body and Removes Mucus:
Renowned herbalist, Dr Sebi, was very passionate about sea moss. One of the main reasons for this was because of its ability to detoxify and remove mucus from the body.
Purple Sea Moss contains a phytonutrient called algin. Which removes heavy metals from within the body’s tissues. It also has a high concentration of potassium iodide. Potassium iodide loosens mucus in the airways. Allowing you to cough up and expel the mucus and breathe freer.
3. Helps to Build Muscle and Boosts Energy Levels:
It is common knowledge that sea moss is a natural energy booster. But did you know that it can also help you to build muscle?
Purple Sea moss contains the amino acid Taurine which helps the body to build muscle and burn fat. It is also an excellent source of protein, especially for vegans. With 6 grams of protein per 100 grams.
It’s also very high in iron. Low levels of iron lead to a lack of energy. Sea Moss’s iron and B-Vitamin content help to increase energy levels and stave off fatigue.
4. Supports Skin and Hair Health:
Sea Moss contains vitamins K, E and A which provide nourishment for your skin. When applied topically it helps to soothe skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis. It is also beneficial to your hair when applied in the form of a gel. The high nutrient content of Purple Sea Moss helps to condition and strengthen your hair. Enabling it to be more manageable.
5. Promotes a Healthy Immune System:
Sea Moss is sometimes referred to as the anti herb. This is because it has anti-viral, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help the body fight against viruses. Such as colds, the flu and even the dreaded COVID-19 virus. Using Sea Moss on a daily basis helps to prevent your body from getting viruses. If you use it during a flu or cold, it helps you to get over these illnesses quicker.
6. Supports Digestive Health
Sea Moss is high in fiber and is a prebiotic. This makes for a potent combination to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
7. Improves Sexual Performance and Boosts Libido:
Sea Moss has long been used in the Caribbean as an aphrodisiac and male sexual enhancer. It contains high levels of zinc. Zinc is known to boost testosterone levels and increase sexual stamina. Sea Moss also enhances libido.
8. Supports Heart Health:
Sea Moss is one of the best plant sources of Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce blood pressure, lower risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol levels.
9. Improves Thyroid Health:
As mentioned earlier, Sea Moss is very high in iodine. The thyroid gland needs adequate iodine in order to function properly. A proper functioning thyroid improves metabolism. As well as balances hormones
Purple Sea Moss Side Effects
Under normal circ*mstances and when taken in moderation, purple sea moss typically does not have any side effects. However, when used excessively. Or when taken by persons who have underlying conditions, the following side effects may occur.
1. Inflammation of the Thyroid Gland
Sea moss has a high concentration of iodine. Consuming sea moss in recommended dosages will lead to healthy levels of iodine in the body. But, if consumed excessively, it can cause the body to intake too much iodine, which can lead to thyroid disorders.
Persons suffering from Thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s or thyroiditis should be very careful when consuming sea moss. It is also recommended that they consult a healthcare professional before any intake of purple sea moss.
2. Skin Irritation/Rashes (Topical Application)
Allergic reactions, such as rashes and irritation of the skin, may occur when sea moss gel is applied topically. People with sensitive skin are particularly susceptible to the likelihood of this happening. So, if you notice any itching or irritation after applying sea moss gel. Then you should stop using it.
How To Use Purple Sea Moss
Sea Moss is easy to prepare and can be utilized in a variety of ways depending on what you wish to use it for. Here are some effective ways to use purple sea moss.
Raw Sea Moss
Purple Sea Moss can be consumed in its raw form like other seaweeds. But, due to its fishy smell and taste, it may not be desirable for some people. If you are someone that prefers to have it in its original form you can eat it raw, steam it, or add it to soups or stews.
Sea Moss Gel
Purple sea moss gel can be consumed or used topically on the skin or in your hair. Here are the steps to make sea moss gel.
How to Make Purple Sea Moss Gel
Step 1: Clean Sea Moss
Clean dried sea moss preferably with spring water to remove sea shells, salt, sand or any other debris that may be present.
Step 2: Rehydrate Sea Moss
Rehydrate the sea moss, by immersing it in spring water and leaving it to soak for between 12 to 24 hours.
Step 3: Blend Sea Moss
Drain the water that the sea moss was soaked in. Put sea moss in a blender along with new fresh spring water and blend to a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Refrigerate
Place the contents of the blender into a jar or other airtight container and put in a refrigerator. Then leave it to set until gel forms.
Sea Moss Capsules
Sea Moss Pills offer an easier and more convenient way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of purple sea moss. Without the hassle of having to make the gel or prepare raw sea moss. Simply take 2 capsules with a glass of water. Or empty the capsules into your favorite beverage or smoothie.
Sea Moss Powder
Sea Moss Powder is made by grinding dry sea moss into a powder. The powder can be added to foods such as smoothies, juices and shakes. Or you can sprinkle it directly over your meals.
How to Make Sea Moss Powder
Step 1: Put dried sea moss into a spice or coffee grinder.
Step 2: Grind sea moss until it turns to powder.
Step 3: Remove from the coffee grinder and add to food or put into capsules.
Sea Moss Soap
Purple sea moss soap may be used as a part of your daily skin care regimen. You can make your own or buy online or in stores. Sea moss is an excellent source of skin nourishing nutrients. These nutrients help to rehydrate your skin and can treat skin issues, such as eczema, acne, burns and psoriasis.
How to Make Sea Moss Soap (Video)
Dosage: How Much Sea Moss To Take Daily
The recommended dosage is one (1) to two (2) tablespoons of purple sea moss gel or two (2) capsules daily.
Where to Buy Purple Sea Moss
Raw wildcrafted dried purple sea moss from Jamaica is available in the Roots Organix Shop. Click this link to purchase