Sea moss, also known as Irish moss or Chondrus crispus, is a type of red algae that grows along the Atlantic coastlines of North America, Europe, and the Caribbean Islands. Dried sea moss can be turned into a powder that offers numerous health benefits and uses in food, drinks, skincare, and more.
Sea moss has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine. However, it has recently gained popularity in the health and wellness community thanks to its dense nutritional profile.
Sea moss powder is made by drying and grinding whole sea moss into a fine powder. This powder can then be easily added to smoothies, recipes, skin care products, and more to reap the benefits of this nutrient-packed sea vegetable.
What is Sea Moss Powder?
Sea moss, also known as Irish moss or Chondrus crispus, is a type of red algae that grows on rocks along the North Atlantic Coast. It gets its name from Ireland, where it has been used in cuisine and folk medicine for centuries.
Dried sea moss can be turned into a powder by grinding it into a fine texture using a high-speed blender or food processor. Sea moss powder contains all the nutrition of whole sea moss in an easy to use form.
Some key facts about sea moss powder:
- Made from dried, ground sea moss
- Bright orange-red color
- Fine, powdery texture
- Easily dissolves in liquid
- Contains 92 of 102 essential minerals the body needs
- Rich in protein, fiber, vitamins and antioxidants
Key Takeaway: Sea moss powder is simply dried and powdered sea moss, containing a dense concentration of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. It offers an easy way to get the health benefits of sea moss.
Benefits of Sea Moss Powder
Sea moss powder contains a wealth of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Some of the top benefits include:
Provides a Natural Source of Iodine
Sea moss is one of the best natural sources of iodine, containing up to 3000 times more iodine than other common iodine-rich foods like dairy.
Iodine is an essential mineral needed by the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, growth, development and nearly every cell in the body.
Consuming adequate iodine can support healthy thyroid function and prevent deficiency. Just 1 teaspoon of sea moss powder contains 11-50% of the RDI for iodine.
Contains Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds
The pigment that gives sea moss its bright reddish-orange hue is called phycoerythrin. This pigment acts as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound in the body.
Antioxidants protect against cell damage from compounds called free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases. The anti-inflammatory activity helps reduce swelling and discomfort.
By consuming sea moss powder regularly, you may see benefits like faster recovery from workouts, reduced allergy symptoms and protection against certain illnesses.
Supports Immune Function
Sea moss is rich in antimicrobial and antiviral compounds which prevent the growth of pathogens that cause illness. It also contains important immune-boosting minerals like zinc and selenium.
Regularly eating sea moss can strengthen immune cells and increase resistance to infections and diseases. Even a small daily amount like 1-2 teaspoons can make a difference in your immune defense over time.
Aids Digestion and Gut Health
The soluble fiber and anti-inflammatory compounds in sea moss help promote a healthy gut environment. Fiber acts as a prebiotic to feed probiotic gut bacteria, allowing them to thrive.
Sea moss has been used traditionally to treat digestive issues like indigestion, gastritis and ulcers. Its soothing gel-like consistency can also help relieve constipation and diarrhea.
Provides Protein and Plant-Based Nutrition
Sea moss contains 5-10% protein, making it one of the few vegan sources of this important macronutrient. The protein includes substantial amounts of certain amino acids like lysine and methionine.
For those on a plant-based diet, adding sea moss powder can help enhance the amino acid profile of foods to ensure you get all essential amino acids.
Key Takeaway: Sea moss powder contains a wealth of nutrients and bioactive compounds that offer benefits for immunity, digestion, inflammation, thyroid function and more. Just small daily amounts can make a difference.
How to Use Sea Moss Powder
One of the best things about sea moss powder is its versatility. Here are some of the easiest ways to use it:
Sea Moss Powder in Drinks
Sea moss powder blends seamlessly into any beverage for an extra boost of minerals and antioxidants:
- Smoothies: Add 1 tsp - 1 tbsp sea moss powder per serving
- Juices: Mix in 1 tsp - 1 tbsp sea moss powder
- Teas or coffee: Stir in 1/4-1/2 tsp sea moss powder
- Hot chocolate: Whisk in 1/4-1/2 tsp per cup
- Plant-based milk: Combine 1 tsp - 1 tbsp per cup
The sea moss powder will dissolve completely, adding a subtly smooth texture. The taste is very mild so it won't overpower other ingredients.
Sea Moss Powder Recipes
Get creative in the kitchen with these recipes using sea moss powder:
- Puddings: Use as a vegan gelatin substitute
- Oatmeal: Stir into overnight oats or hot cereal
- Baked goods: Add to bread, muffins, cookies, etc.
- Soups and sauces: Whisk in as a thickener
- Dips: Combine with herbs, spices and oil for veggie dips
- Salad dressing: Use instead of xanthan or guar gum to emulsify
Start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon sea moss powder per serving and adjust amounts as desired. It will lend a slightly smooth, velvety texture.
Sea Moss for Skin
Thanks to its skin-nourishing minerals, sea moss powder can be used topically for beauty benefits:
- Face masks: Mix with water or aloe vera gel and apply to face weekly
- Body scrubs: Add to coffee grounds or sugar for an exfoliating scrub
- Hair treatments: Make a sea moss gel to nourish hair and promote growth
- Lotions: Add to formulations like whipped body butter to thicken and add minerals
Use 1 teaspoon - 1 tablespoon per recipe depending on your preference. It absorbs easily into skin and hair to provide deep nourishment.
Key Takeaway: Sea moss powder can be seamlessly added into smoothies, mixed into recipes, blended into skin care products or taken on its own. It's one of the most versatile supplements around!
How to Make Sea Moss Powder
While it's easy to purchase high-quality sea moss powder online, you can also make your own with just a few simple steps:
- Purchase dried sea moss (also called Irish moss). Look for sustainably wild-harvested sea moss.
- Rinse the dried sea moss well under cold running water to remove any debris.
- Soak the sea moss in fresh water for 4-24 hours to rehydrate and soften. This makes it easier to grind.
- Drain the soaked sea moss and spread onto a baking sheet. Make sure sea moss pieces aren't overlapping.
- Dehydrate the sea moss either in a food dehydrator or oven on the lowest temperature, between 95°F to 115°F, for 12-24 hours. Check frequently to prevent burning.
- Once the sea moss is fully dried and brittle, grind it up into a fine powder using a high-speed blender, spice grinder or food processor. Store the finished sea moss powder in an airtight container.
The resulting sea moss powder will have a vibrant orange-red hue and can be seamlessly added into your foods, drinks and DIY body care products. Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Where to Buy Sea Moss Powder
When shopping for sea moss powder, always choose organic and sustainably wild-crafted sources. Here are some of the best places to buy high quality sea moss powder:
- Health food stores and vitamin shops
- Online retailers like Amazon, iHerb or Thrive Market
- Directly from sea moss harvesters like Maine Coast Sea Vegetables
- Natural skincare shops selling powdered ingredients
Be sure to look for sea moss powder that is 100% pure with no additives or preservatives. It should have an intense orange-red color indicating freshness. Price can range from $10 to $30 for a 1-4 ounce pouch.
You may also find sea moss capsules, which are a convenient way to get a precise daily dose. However powders offer more versatility in recipes and DIY products.
Key Takeaway: Purchase high quality sea moss powder online or at health food stores. Look for sustainably harvested, organic sources with a vibrant orange-red color.
Sea Moss Powder Recipes
Here are two delicious recipes using sea moss powder to help you get all the benefits of this incredible sea vegetable:
1. Blue Majik Sea Moss Smoothie
This antioxidant-rich blue smoothie gets an extra health kick from sea moss powder. The chocolate and banana provide plenty of sweetness to mask the mild sea moss taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 tbsp blue majik powder
- 1 tsp sea moss powder
- 1 tsp maca powder (optional)
Directions:
- Add all ingredients to a high speed blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Enjoy immediately!
2. Cranberry Sea Moss Overnight Oats
These fiber-filled overnight oats turn into a thick, creamy bowl of goodness thanks to sea moss powder. The tart cranberries balance the natural sweetness from the oats and banana.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/2 banana, mashed
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp sea moss powder
Directions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl or jar.
- Refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours to thicken.
- Top with extra cranberries before enjoying!
Key Takeaway: Sea moss powder blends into smoothies, oatmeal and many other recipes seamlessly. Start with 1/4-1 tsp per serving to reap the benefits.
FAQs
What does sea moss powder taste like?
Sea moss powder has a very mild taste, with a slightly salty ocean flavor. Many people describe it as tasting like fresh sea air. The powder will blend into foods and drinks without overpowering other ingredients.
How do you prepare sea moss powder?
Sea moss powder dissolves easily into water or non-dairy milk. For smoothies, shakes or oatmeal, simply add 1/4-1 tablespoon powder per serving and blend or stir well to combine. It will dissolve within seconds, creating a thick, creamy texture.
Can you bake or cook with sea moss powder?
Yes, sea moss powder can be added to baked goods like bread, muffins and cookies for extra nutrition. Use about 1/2-1 teaspoon per loaf or batch of cookies. It also makes a great thickener for soups, stews, and sauces. Start with 1/4-1/2 teaspoon per cup of liquid when simmering.
What is the best way to take sea moss powder?
The easiest way to take sea moss powder is to simply mix it into water or non-dairy milk and drink it. Smoothies and protein shakes are also excellent delivery methods. However, sea moss powder is very versatile so you can get creative and add it into many types of recipes.
Can you apply sea moss powder directly on your skin?
Yes, sea moss powder can be used topically by mixing it with a liquid like aloe vera gel to create a paste. Apply it onto clean skin as a nourishing face or body mask 1-2 times per week. The minerals will absorb into skin to hydrate, improve firmness and fight acne.
Is sea moss powder safe during pregnancy?
Always check with your doctor before taking sea moss in pregnancy, as excess iodine levels are not recommended. If cleared by your provider, sea moss is very nutritious. Start with just 1/8- 1/4 teaspoon daily in your first trimester and gradually increase if well-tolerated.
Conclusion
Sea moss powder offers an easy and versatile way to enjoy all the amazing sea moss benefits, from its high mineral content to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Just a small amount added into your smoothies, oatmeal or favorite recipes is enough to make a difference.
Focus on finding high quality, sustainably harvested sea moss powder from reputable brands. Start slowly, with 1/4-1 teaspoon daily, and work it into your food, drinks, or DIY body care creations.