Sea moss gel is a nutrient dense food, containing 92 of the 102 minerals our body needs, which can be eaten or applied to skin and hair. Below is a step by step guide of how to prepare sea moss gel, including a full list of the health benefits and uses.
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Jump To Section:-
- What is sea moss gel?
- Sea moss gel benefits
- Ingredients
- Equipment needed
- How to make sea moss gel (step by step instructions)
- How to use sea moss gel
- How to store sea moss gel
- Diet requirements
- Other healthy recipes
- Recipe card
What is sea moss gel?
Sea moss, also called Irish moss or Jamaican moss, is a type of seaweed/algae found on the Atlantic coastlines of Europe, North America and the Caribbean, that comes in various colours – purple, red, pink. It can be turned into a gel by blending sea moss with water.
Sea moss gel benefits
Sea moss gel is a nutrient dense superfood, which has numerous health benefits:-
- It contains 92 of the 102 minerals our body needs, including zinc, iodine and iron, selenium, potassium and magnesium, which are important for overall health, including boosting energy, improving mood and promoting brain, joint, bone and heart health (1).
- Improves gut health and digestion. It acts as a prebiotic, which feeds the good bacteria in our gut and reduces the bad bacteria. Its smooth gelatinous thick texture soothes the digestive tract, improves digestion and can help ease digestive problems (2, 3).
- It’s a rich source of iodine, important for thyroid function, which helps regulate our metabolism, digestion and mood (4).
- It improves skin, hair and nail health. It’s rich in vitamins A, K and E and contains amino acids which are important for collagen production which helps strengthen hair, skin and nails. It soothes, nourishes and hydrates the skin, helps to ease dryness and can help with skin conditions like eczema (5, 6).
- It supports the immune system. Sea moss is rich in amino acids, vitamin C, antioxidants, and has antiviral, antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties. These can help the body to fight and prevent infections. It’s thick gelatinous quality helps remove excess mucus in the body to help fight colds, coughs and other respiratory problems (2).
- It helps improve joint and bone health. Sea moss is a source of anti-inflammatory omega 3 fats, calcium, magnesium and vitamin K, which has been shown to help ease pain (3).
Ingredients Needed
- Sea moss (UK Link/US Link). Buy sea moss from the Atlantic coastline, labelled organic, wild harvested or wild crafted.
- Filtered water
- Freshly squeezed juice from half a lemon or lime. This helps to preserve the gel and keep it fresher for longer.
Equipment needed
How to make sea moss gel (step by step instructions)
- Rinse sea moss in a large 2 quart/2 litre glass bowl filled with water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Drain the sea moss, place it back in the glass bowl and cover it completely with filtered water. Leave to soak for 24-48 hours. The sea moss will expand as it soaks so ensure you use a bowl considerably larger than the amount of sea moss and fill the bowl nearly full with filtered water.
- Blend on high until a smooth gel is formed.
- Transfer to a glass airtight container and store in the fridge.
- The gel can be used straight away but will thicken more the longer it’s stored.
How to use sea moss gel
Eating
Sea moss gel can easily be consumed each day in numerous ways:-
- Eaten on its own
- Added to smoothies or smoothie bowls
- Stirred into salad dressings and pasta sauces
- Used to help thicken soups and stews like this Root Vegetable Soup
- Added to curries and stir frys
- Stirred into porridge or overnight oats
- Stirred into teas
Hair & Skin Care
Sea moss gel can also be used as a part of our body and skin care routine:-
- Applied to hair before using shampoo and conditioner.
- Used as a face mask by applying a thin layer over the face, leaving it to dry then washing it off with cold water and patting the skin dry.
- Used as a body lotion by rubbing it into the skin anywhere on the body.
How to store sea moss gel
Fridge
Sea moss gel can be stored in an airtight glass container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer
It can also be stored in the freezer for 3 months. The best way to freeze it is to fill ice cube trays with the gel. This allows you to remove a small amount each day. Ice cubes can also easily be added to smoothies. When you want to consume sea moss gel, remove desired amount from the freezer and either leave it to thaw at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until thawed completely, or transfer it to the fridge to thaw for at least 12 hours or until thawed completely.
Frequently asked questions
Sea moss gel can be eaten and used everyday, although the amount should be limited.
It’s recommended to eat 1-2 tablespoons per day (7).
It has a mild seaweed flavour that’s easily cancelled out when mixed with other foods.
Sea moss gel if not refrigerated properly or stored for too long can go off. When this happens it will develop an off smell and have grey spots on top. If any of these signs appear, the gel should be thrown away and the container thoroughly washed before using again.
When consuming the recommended daily amount, sea moss gel is generally safe and can have numerous health benefits (8). It is recommended to consult your doctor before taking sea moss gel if taking medications and supplements, have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also recommended to perform a patch test before using on your skin and hair to prevent any reactions (7).
Diet Requirements
Sea moss gel is:-
- Gluten free
- Dairy free
- Wheat free
- Lactose free
- Egg free
- Soy free
- Nut free
- Seed free
- Nightshade free
- Oil free
- Vegan
- Vegetarian
- Paleo
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How To Prepare Sea Moss Gel
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ounce dried sea moss
- 3/4 cup filtered water
- Juice from half a lemon or half a lime
Instructions
- Rinse sea moss in a large 2 quart/2 litre glass bowl filled with water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Drain the sea moss, place it back in the glass bowl and cover it completely with filtered water. Leave to soak for 24-48 hours. The sea moss will expand as it soaks so ensure you use a bowl considerably larger than the amount of sea moss.
- Transfer to a glass airtight container and store in the fridge.
- The gel can be used straight away but will thicken more the longer it’s stored.
Notes
Nutrition
