Growing up, I remember my granny sipping her daily glass of sea moss.

She often told us it was “good for the body,” and she was living proof. Granny lived a long, healthy life to 94!

At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate her wisdom, but as I’ve learned more about this traditional Caribbean superfood, I can’t help but marvel at how right she was.

Sea moss, also called Irish moss, is a nutrient-packed algae that has been a staple in Caribbean households for generations.

What is Sea Moss?

Sea moss is a type of red algae (scientifically known as Chondrus crispus) that grows in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Its texture is soft and gelatinous when hydrated, making it perfect for blending into smoothies, desserts, or drinks. Sea moss is prized for its wealth of vitamins, minerals, and other health benefits.

This humble seaweed contains:

92 of the 102 minerals the body needs, including iodine, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

Vitamins like A, E, K, and B12.

Natural collagen, making it a popular ingredient in skincare routines.

Why Is Sea Moss Good for You?

Granny wasn’t wrong when she said sea moss is good for the body. Its nutritional value makes it a powerhouse for overall health.

Boosts Immunity
Packed with antioxidants, sea moss helps strengthen the immune system, aiding your body in fighting off infections and illnesses.

Supports Gut Health
The high fiber content promotes healthy digestion and can soothe an irritated gut.

Promotes Healthy Skin
The natural collagen in sea moss can help improve skin elasticity, reduce signs of aging, and keep your skin hydrated.

Energy and Metabolism
With its abundance of iron, sea moss supports energy production and maintains proper metabolism.

Thyroid Support
Thanks to its high iodine content, sea moss plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy thyroid gland, which regulates many bodily functions.

How To Make Caribbean Sea Moss Drink?

Ingredients

2 oz dried sea moss
2 tsp lime juice
2 cups water
4 cups evaporated milk
¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
Dash of bitters
Crushed ice (for serving)

Method

Rinse the dried sea moss thoroughly to remove any sand or debris. Soak it overnight in water with the lime juice. This helps to clean and rehydrate the sea moss, turning it into a soft, jelly-like texture.

Drain the soaked sea moss, then boil it in 2 cups of water until it dissolves into a gel-like mass. Allow it to cool completely.

Combine the sea moss gel, evaporated milk, sugar, and a dash of bitters in a blender. Blend on high speed for about a minute until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Pour the drink over crushed ice and enjoy!

Creative Ways to Use Sea Moss

Sea moss isn’t just for traditional drinks. Here are some modern ways you can incorporate it into your diet:

Smoothies: Add a spoonful of sea moss gel to your favorite fruit smoothie for a nutrient boost.
Soups and Stews: Use it as a natural thickener.
Baking: Replace eggs in recipes with sea moss gel for a vegan-friendly alternative.
Face Masks: Mix it with honey and turmeric for a nourishing skincare treatment.

Tips for Buying and Storing Sea Moss

When purchasing sea moss, look for wildcrafted varieties sourced from clean waters, like those in St. Lucia or Jamaica.

Avoid sea moss that looks overly processed or bleached. Once you have your sea moss, store it in a cool, dry place. After soaking, keep it in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

Granny may not have had scientific studies to back her claims, but she knew sea moss was a gift from nature. Today, science is catching up, validating what Caribbean families have known for generations.

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