Irish Moss as an Herb

(Chondrus crispus)

Irish Moss is collected from rocky coastlines around the North Atlantic. Large amounts are gathered from the Massachusetts coast, and in Europe mainly from Ireland and Brittany. In Ireland collection takes place in the fall, in America in the summer.

Recent research has shown an anti-viral property against the influenza B and the mumps viruses. Unfortunately the research was undertaken on animals, but supports the traditional use of Irish Moss in such conditions.

This sea weed is a fantastic source of calcium, magnesium, iodine and sodium.

Medicinal Uses for Irish Moss

Irish Moss is used to boost the body when recovering from a serious illness, due to its high content of important nutrients. It has been used to treat bronchitis, goiter, thyroid problems, and to tone and strengthen the body's glands.

Traditionally the main use of Irish Moss is in respiratory illness where it is often the core of prescriptions to treat irritating coughs, bronchitis and many other lung problems.

It may be freely used in digestive conditions where a demulcent is called for, such as gastritis and ulceration of the stomach and duodenum. The soothing activity is also seen in inflammations of the urinary system, and was at one time used extensively in the way Corn Silk is today. It has been used as a food in maintenance diets for diabetes patients.

A popular remedy is made into a jelly for pulmonary complaints and kidney and bladder affections. The decoction is made by steeping 1/2 ounce of the Moss in cold water for 15 minutes and then boiling it in 3 pints of milk or water for 10 or 15 minutes, After this process, strain and season with liqorice, lemon or cinnamon and sweeten to taste. It can be taken freely.

Apparently benefits of Irish moss extend even to weight loss. It is said to have properties which fight against fat and cholesterol build up, aiding in weight loss In that case it may even be useful to prevent and cure arteriosclerosis, according to experts.

Culinary

As a culinary article, Irish Moss may be employed in the preparation of jellies, white soup, blac-mange etc.

Irish Moss can be combined with cocoa.

This weed is used in the form of a clarifying agent in the brewing process, specially if it is a homebrew. Its emulsifying effect, after carrageenan is extracted from it, is another viable quality of Irish moss and one of the major Irish moss benefits.

To use fresh, wash it well and add one cup of Irish Moss to three cups of milk or water and flavor to taste. Simmer slowly until most of the seaweed has dissolved. Remove any undissolved fragments and pour into a mould to set.

See also:

• Irish Moss Jelly

Cautions

Irish moss is contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcer disease or in those with a history of peptic ulcer disease. Avoid using this herb in pregnant or breast feeding patients; effects are unknown.

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.