Another name for Sea moss is ‘Chondrus Crispus’. It is a type of Seaweed or algae. It is an edible plant and generally grows in water along with the rocky parts of Atlantic coasts, between the continent, North America and Europe.
Chondrus crispus belongs to the order Gigartinales in the Florideophyceae class. It originates from the Rhodophyta division from the Gigartinaceae family1
‘Chondrus crispus Sea moss‘ is similar to other leafy sea vegetables and seaweeds such as dulse.
It can be seen in several colors such as yellow, dark purple, red, various green, black and purplish-brown.
So, If we talk about the most known and familiar colored sea moss found everywhere, it’s red, and this red Sea moss generally grows in the warmer waters.
Where Can You Find Chondrus Crispus Sea moss?
This common red Seaweed is found in the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal, and Iceland, Spain. Chondrus crispus Sea moss is found in drained rock surfaces or pools on the mid to low shore.
Chondrus Crispus Sea moss is made of a jelly-like substance, and this substance is known as polysaccharide carrageenan.
Carrageenan increases its quality to a great extent and makes it broadly applicable.
For gelatin, Carrageenan is used by people as a vegan substitute, and it is also used as a common emulsifier. This means that it is beneficial in dairy production, from infant formula to butter.
Highlights of Chondrus Crispus Sea moss
- Popular name: Irish Moss
- The scientific name of it: Chondrus crispus
- Shapes of Chondrus Crispus: fan-shaped and leafy
- Measurements: Height -145 mm, Breadth- 2-14 mm, Length- 2-10 mm
- It tastes: Mucilaginous or cloggy
- Color varieties found: Dark purplish, yellowish, greenish, red, purple, and brown.
- Effective in: skin, hair, and body.
Nutritional Constituents of Sea Moss
The nutritional composition of 4-tablespoons of Chondrus Crispus Sea moss is as follows-
| Calories | 10 |
| Protein | 0.5 grams |
| Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Calcium | 14.2 mg |
| Iron | 0.18 mg |
| Magnesium | 28.8 mg |
| Phosphorous | 31.4 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
| Copper | 0.04 mg |
| Total Fat | 0 grams |
| Total Carbs | 3 grams |
| Total Sugar | 0 grams |
Benefits of Chondrus Crispus Sea Moss
Most of the research has been done on Seaweed and algae instead of sea moss.
Because sea moss grows with them in the same environment, some of their qualities are also known as the qualities or properties of Irish Moss.
People even get the benefits from it as well. Many positive effects have been seen after using Chondrus crispus Sea moss, but there is a complete lack of scientific research on this plant. It means its benefits are specifically anecdotal.
Works as an energy booster
Iron helps assist the transportation of oxygen to the cells, and it also boosts the metabolic enzyme process for absorbing digest proteins and nutrients from the foods you eat.
When Iron is deficient in one’s body, he feels as if he has done a lot of work even after doing a little work. High exhaustion, problems in being active, low concentration, muscle coordination problems are seen commonly.
For the muscles’ proper movement, Iron is required in one’s body as it helps assist in the oxygen storage in your muscles.
Supports your thyroid health
The nutrition found in Chondrus crispus Sea moss can prove suitable for resolving thyroid problems.
May support immunity and gut health
Although research is lacking, many people claim it is perfect for the immune system. According to a study, it can improve immune modulation and promote an immune response. Seaweeds or Irish sea moss Chondrus crispus is an acceptable source of fiber and live bacteria, good for your healthy gut microbiome.
Effective in Anemia
When the transport of oxygen in one’s body gets low, it results in a lack of blood cells and hemoglobin. This causes Anemia. Anemia causes problems like low energy, poor brain function, and low immunity in your body. And let us tell you that according to the World Health Organization, the problem of most Anemia occurs in those people whose body is deficient in iodine. If you consume sea moss, it fulfills the iodine deficiency in your body, and that’s how it is very beneficial for your health.
Cholesterol reducer
Chondrus Crispus’ nutrients help reduce your LDL cholesterol. It is also known for acting as a blood thinner, which helps lower heart disease risk.
Cognitive health effects
It is considered very good for brain health because the high amount of nutrition found in it proves helpful in promoting your cognitive health. Cognitive health is an ability that is necessary for a person to understand, read, write, think and do many such tasks which are related to the mind or brain.
Good For Pregnancy
Irish sea moss Chondrus crispus has been used by people as a traditional fertility treatment for a long time, but no evidence has been found yet. Many people believe that it can increase the fertility of men and women and lower the risks of newborn baby’s low weight by 8.3%.
Manages your sugar level
According to a study, Seaweed contains a compound called Fucoxanthin in high amounts, which proves to help control the sugar level in your body. Another research suggests that the substance found in it called alginate can lower the risk of blood sugar spikes in pigs!.
Unsettled leg syndrome
The Iron in seaweeds carries oxygen to every corner of your muscles, which helps reduce the pain of your strengths and spasms.
Types and variances of the Sea moss
There are two prominent and currently popular sea mosses among thousands of species.
- Chondrus Crispus (Irish sea Moss or Irish Moss)
- Genus Gracilaria (Jamaican Sea moss or Jamaican Moss)
Irish moss and sea moss are the family members of Chondrus crispus, and except these, there are others members too!.
Irish moss and sea moss are the most known, commercially popular, and effective plants. People call the sea moss found in Jamaica or tropical locations the Irish Moss, but it is not honest Irish Moss!.
It is Genus Gracilaria sea moss (sea moss) which is famous all over the globe, and it is used by manufacturers in large quantities as well.
Ways of consumption: Can I consume Irish Moss daily?
According to the FDA, one should not consume more than 224 milligrams of Chondrus crispus sea moss because it contains high amounts of iodine. It may show its side effects if you drink it in large quantities. Consuming 2 to 4 tablespoons daily is adequate (according to a study published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research).
Red sea moss is used almost all over the world. Products made from it prove to be very beneficial for skin, hair, and your body. It is bought and loved worldwide by the public and even celebrities. You can consume Sea moss in the form of –
- Chondrus Crispus Sea moss supplements
- Powders form for smoothies, milk, and water
- Capsules
- Gel form
- Foods and beverages
Risks and precautions for sea moss red algae
Chondrus Crispus sea moss proves to be beneficial and productive in very high amounts. But research proves that there can be side effects too. Let’s dig deep into this.
- Excess of iodine in one’s body can lead to hypothyroidism, which is known as an underactive thyroid. The thyroid gland is responsible for metabolism and growth. If you take an excessive amount of Seaweed, it might be harmful for your metabolism.
- Poligeenan is also linked to polyps that prove to be cancerous. It causes complex issues in the digestive tract, which may result in cell mutations commonly found in cancers.
- Intestinal Inflammation is another significant risk of Irish Moss. Excessive seaweed reduces the ability of nutrient absorption and causes problems like Inflammation in the intestines.
Poligeenan can also lead to bloating and discomfort over the period. Colitis and Crohn’s disease symptoms can be seen in one’s body if taken in high amounts. It may also cause Stomach Ulcers.
Nevertheless, we advise you to consult a healthcare specialist about including Chondrus crispus or sea moss supplements in your daily diet. The key is to consume it in adequate quantities.
Conclusion
Do you know that there are one hundred fifty seaweeds or algae present in the vast ocean, but people use only 36 percent (24) of these for medicinal and other purposes.
Irish Moss Chondrus crispus is a boon for humanity. Nonetheless, it can also be a curse if consumed inappropriately or excessively.
However, the sound benefits of Sea Moss or Chondrus Crispus are too hard to miss. Even the FDA has recommended its consumption in moderation. If you’re in for a superfood consumption, it’s time to consult your doctor and use ‘Chondrus crispus Sea moss’
