Raw Sea Moss: A Practical Guide
A Long Tradition
Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, has been part of coastal diets for centuries, from Ireland to the Caribbean islands. During the Irish Potato Famine in the 19th century, it was one of the foods people relied on. Today it is enjoyed around the world as a simple, traditional ingredient.
What Raw Sea Moss Contains
Sea moss is a red seaweed that naturally contains minerals such as iodine, calcium, magnesium and potassium, along with fiber. It also provides zinc, which plays a role in normal immune function, and iodine, which plays a role in normal thyroid function.* Because sea moss can be rich in iodine, more is not better.
In Caribbean kitchens, sea moss is a familiar comfort food, simmered into warm drinks and creamy desserts during cooler months.
Choosing Raw Sea Moss
Look for wildcrafted sea moss, hand-harvested from the ocean rather than grown in pools or tanks, from a seller who is clear about how it is dried and packed. Our raw sea moss comes in two sizes:
- 8 oz Raw Wildcrafted Sea Moss: a good fit if you make gel regularly.
- 4 oz Raw Wildcrafted Sea Moss: a great starting point for beginners.
How to Turn Raw Sea Moss Into Gel
- Rinse: rinse the sea moss well in cool water to remove any sand or sea salt.
- Soak: cover it with fresh water and soak for 12 to 24 hours, until soft and expanded.
- Rinse again: drain and give it one more rinse.
- Blend: blend with fresh water until smooth. Use less water for a thicker gel.
- Store: pour into a clean, airtight jar and refrigerate. It will thicken as it chills.
For more detail and two methods, see our step-by-step guide to making sea moss gel at home.
Ways to Use It
- Sea moss gel: add it to smoothies or tea, or use it as a thickener in soups.
- In recipes: from savory dishes to desserts, sea moss works as a natural thickener and a plant-based swap for gelatin.
- Smoothies: try our sea moss smoothie recipes.
Prefer Ready-Made?
If you would rather skip the prep, our small-batch sea moss gels are ready to use straight from the jar.
For Your Skin
Sea moss gel has a smooth, hydrating feel, which makes it a popular base for DIY skincare:
- Simple face mask: mix sea moss gel with a little honey for a hydrating mask that leaves skin feeling soft.
- Body moisturizer: blend sea moss gel with a carrier oil for a silky, moisturizing feel.
Patch test first, keep it away from your eyes, and stop if you notice irritation.
Sustainable Harvesting
As sea moss grows in popularity, responsible harvesting matters more than ever. Hand-harvesting in a way that lets the beds regrow protects the ocean and the coastal communities who have gathered sea moss for generations. Know where your sea moss comes from and how it was handled.
Conclusion
Raw sea moss is a simple, traditional food that is easy to prepare at home. Choose wildcrafted sea moss, follow a few easy steps, and enjoy it as one part of a balanced, everyday routine.
Have you made your own sea moss gel? Share your tips and favorite recipes in the comments. You can find our raw sea moss here.
Sea moss naturally contains iodine. If you are pregnant or nursing, have a medical condition, take medication, or are under 18, talk with your healthcare provider before use.
