IRISH MOSS FLAKES
Irish moss has been harvested by humans for many hundreds of years. It is a widely distributed red seaweed, bearing many common names due to its long history of human use. Chondrus crispus is most often known as Irish moss, reflecting its long history in Ireland and its short, moss-like growth habit on rocks.
Irish moss’s usefulness as both food and medicine is due in large part to its mucilaginous, gel forming properties. When Irish moss is boiled and then cooled it forms a gelatinous substance known as carrageenan. It was famously used as a starvation food during the Irish potato famine of 1846-48.
🌱Used to thicken foods, in medicinal applications, or homemade skin care products.
🌱Dissolves in water & can be substituted for corn flour in gravies etc.
🌱Irish moss contains every mineral needed for human health.
🌱1 tsp provides 8% of the RDI for iron and 11% of the RDI for manganese.
🌱Polyunsaturated fatty acids, which promote brain & cardiovascular health.
🌱It contains 'complete' protein with every essential amino acid in digestible form.
🌱It contains about 300 micrograms iodine per gram.
🌱Good source of fiber & unique polysaccharides which benefit intestinal health.
Irish Moss Flakes
TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL USES:
🌱Intestinal disorders, ulcers, sore throats, coughs, and other respiratory ailments.
🌱Its mucilaginous properties help to soothe inflammation and irritation of mucous membranes.
🌱It is an expectorant, (a substance that loosens congestion and encourages more productive coughing).
MODERN SCIENCE:
🌱Lab studies show that carrageenan inhibits several viruses, including the human papillomavirus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer.
🌱Other studies show that a carrageenan nasal spray can be prophylactic against coronaviruses, including the common cold and COVID-19.
🌱 In the lab, it’s been found that carrageenan inhibits proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells.
🌱Recent research in the online publication Neuroscience News showed that carrageenan may modulate the immune response.