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Writer's pictureBri D

What Is Sea Moss?


Over the last decade or so, you've probably heard about this mysterious and mystical super food, Sea Moss. It has quickly become one of the most notable superfoods on the market after it got major attention from Dr. Sebi and celebrities like "Left Eye" and NLE Choppa. Today, more people are eager to learn about Sea Moss and its benefits, and most of all, people want to know; is it really worth the hype?


Sea Moss is a part of the Red Algae family and has many different species. The two most common species you will see on the market are Chondrus Crispus and Genus Gracilaria. You can find Sea Moss ranging from bright green and gold all the way to red and purple depending on its location in the ocean.


"Irish Sea Moss", scientifically known as Chondrus Crispus, got it's name from the fact that it can be found on the coastlines of Ireland, as the Irish were harvesting it during the Potato Famine to boost the nutritional value of their meals. Chondrus Crispus can also be found growing on rocks along the coastlines of North America and Europe, places that have cooler climates. Genus Gracilaria on the other hand, is grown in warmer areas that are closer to the sun, places such as Jamaica and St Lucia. Genus Gracilaria is more commonly accessible on the market, and more commonly sold, despite the very common misconception that all Sea Moss being sold, is Chondrus Crispus. There has been a lot of confusion surrounding this, due to a lack of research. Most people just rely on Dr. Sebi's teachings, but he may not have noted the differences between the two. This is why it is important we always do our own research.


Both Chondrus Crispus and Gracilaria contain many of the minerals and nutrients our bodies contain and require. However, it is worth noting, there are some physical and nutritional differences between these two species. Chondrus Crispus is grown on the rocks along coastlines in cold climates and its appearance is more leafy and glossy. The parts that appear to be leaves, are short and fan shaped. Chondrus Crispus ranges from bright green to dark purple, and it has more of a fishy smell and produces a thicker gel. Genus Gracilaria on the other hand, has a thin to thick hair strand or noodle-like appearance and is usually found more on the golden side of the color spectrum, but can also be found in red or purple. Gracilaria has a milder smell and thinner gel. It is also grown on rocks, but along coastlines in Jamaica and St Lucia, where it can also be grown on ropes in the ocean, with the help of ocean farmers who assist in the growing process. The mineral content in Gracilaria is higher than Chrondrus Crispus simply because of its exposure the sun and its exposure to plant ocean soils that are richer in minerals. It's also known to improve the quality of you hair, skin, and nails because it is a porous red algae, and absorbs more minerals from the rock. Gracilaria is high in iron and calcium, and it absorbs more water. Chondrus Crispus is said to contain Carrageenan, an expectorant that can help with sore throat, coughs and colds. It also has a lot of minerals, but the highly sought after rumor that it has 92 minerals, has not been proven and needs more research. Current research shows that the mineral and vitamin content can vary, due to the changes of the season.


At the end of the day, both of these species of Sea Moss are very high in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, they both have great amino acids, including Omega-3 fatty acids. They are also both packed with antioxidants and compounds that are great for the body. Anecdotal evidence proves that Sea Moss has many immune system benefits, including treatment for respiratory problems, like sore throat, chest coughs, bronchitis, pneumonia, and the flu. Its anti-viral and anti-bacterial. Sea moss can also stop the growth of S. Enteritidis, the bacteria that causes salmonella in humans. Sea Moss is also great for your digestive system, working as a probiotic, providing overall better gut health. Its gelatinous consistency is helpful for soothing the digestive tract and helps with leaky gut and gastritis. It helps to get things moving along your GI tract smoothly. Sea Moss also has great thyroid benefits, which helps to regulate metabolism, because of its high iodine content. This ocean super food is also great for skin conditions like eczema, sun burn, psoriasis and dermatitis. It can be used as a skin mask, or you can add the gel to a bath. Sea Moss is also great for weight loss, because it contains a natural fat burner, Fucoxanthin. Sea moss improves endurance and energy levels, and it helps to curb your appetite. Sea Moss also helps with promoting muscle growth. Sea Moss also helps level blood sugar and help you sleep better and reducing problems with foggy brain. It can help with Alzheimer's and dementia . It can help to promote fertility and increase libido. Sea Moss also helps to lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.


All in all, Sea Moss as an umbrella term, is a super food that has many different species, including Chondrus Crispus and Genus Gracilaria, both of which due wonders for the body, and can be turned into a gel, powder, flakes, or a pill form. It's a natural supplement that comes from the earth, and although there is more research to be done on it, it's been used for centuries, and many people have vouched for its great benefits. The only way for you to truly know if it works for you or not, is to try it. However, I always recommend consulting your doctor before introducing your body to any new supplements, vitamins, or minerals. I am not a doctor and do not and cannot prescribe or give any diagnosis or medical advice. Proceed at your own pace. PEACE!

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