Sea moss is generally used as the thickening agent Carrageenan. When we consider the physiological effects on the body, we are talking about organic, unprocessed, sea moss gel, or a powder in a capsule - not an extract of any kind.
*Due to its high iodine content, those with thyroid autoimmune should NOT take Sea Moss and should see your local practitioner about testing for a glandular and addressing the root cause of said condition before “self-medicating” with sea moss.
Whether Irish Sea Moss, or many of the other varying colors and varieties, sea moss has been reputed to have many notable physiological effects on the body. It contains 92 of the body’s needed 102 minerals for optimal function. Minerals are important for every function in the body, from carrying electrical signals to the brain and heart, to hydration, hormone production and metabolism, vitamin uptake, and nutrient assimilation. They are also essential for healthy bones, teeth, blood, nerves, and muscles. Some of the minerals it contains are calcium, zinc, sulfur, iron, silica, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, and copper. It also contains iodine and selenium – which are both essential for healthy thyroid function. Sea moss is loaded with antioxidants. Research shows it can improve gut health, blood sugar management, increasing immunity and preventing viral infection, heart health, increase weight loss, help with hair growth, improve reproductive health and performance, reduce signs of aging, improve skin, increase fertility, libido, balance hormones, help with period cramps and the menstrual cycle. The list continues, it is also known to help with allergies, improve diabetes because it helps to handle blood sugar, improve sleep, mood swings, it is even touted to help prevent cancer…have you noticed how many health problems and symptoms are due to a mineral deficiency?
Aside from minerals, sea moss is also abundant in natural A, D, E, G and K Vitamins as well as B12 vitamins that help keep the body in balance and fight or heal pernicious anemia. B9 vitamins, or folate, a factor that alongside iodine can improve not only fertility, but reduce birth defects, and miscarriage by allowing the pregnancy to take in the first place.
For men it is known to improve erectile dysfunction, improve libido, and increase testosterone and sperm count. Talk about a superfood!
Topically sea moss can be applied to burns, scrapes, cuts, and skin infections, and to the face as a mask, and to the scalp to condition hair and improve health of the hair follicles and increase growth.
Ultimately, sea moss is your one-stop-shop for minerals and as a practitioner, it is my go-to mineral supplement. Always look for wild-crafted 100% sea moss product or one with organic Bladderwack and/or Burdock root.