The History of Sea Moss: From Irish Coasts to Caribbean Kitchens

Sea moss is having a moment, but this humble seaweed has been part of coastal life for centuries, from the rocky shores of Ireland to New England fishing towns to Caribbean kitchens. Here's its story.

Ireland's "little rock" seaweed

The seaweed most often called Irish moss is Chondrus crispus, a red alga that grows on rocks along the North Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America. In Irish it's known as carraigín, meaning "little rock," and the English name "carrageen" came into use in Ireland around 1840.^[1]

In Ireland, it has been used since at least the early 19th century as a folk remedy for coughs and colds, and as a food. It was traditionally simmered in milk to make puddings and used to thicken dishes.^[1] Small amounts are still gathered in Ireland today for cooking and as a health drink.^[1]

Crossing the Atlantic

During and after the Great Famine of the 1840s, many Irish people emigrated to North America and brought their knowledge of Irish moss with them.^[1] In Scituate, Massachusetts, an Irish immigrant recognized the seaweed growing offshore and started a harvesting business. Irish families fleeing the famine came to work as "mossers," raking the seaweed from the sea floor and drying it for sale.^[2]

From seaweed to carrageenan

Irish moss is the original source of carrageenan, a natural thickener and gelling agent. By the 19th century, carrageen was already being used in manufacturing, and demand grew over time.^[2] Today, carrageenan is used widely in foods and other products, and much of it comes from seaweed farmed in Asia.

Sea moss in the Caribbean

In the Caribbean, sea moss (often species of Gracilaria) has its own rich tradition. It's commonly boiled into a gel and blended into a sweet, creamy drink with milk and spices, a beloved part of the cuisine in Jamaica, Trinidad, and other islands.

What modern research shows

Like other seaweeds, sea moss naturally contains minerals including iodine, along with fiber. Most research on sea moss has been in the lab or in animals, so many health claims online go beyond the evidence. For a closer look, read Sea Moss 101.

How the FDA regulates sea moss

Sea moss supplements are regulated as dietary supplements in the US. Under DSHEA (1994), the FDA does not approve supplements for safety or effectiveness before they are marketed.^[3]

Safety notes: iodine matters

Seaweed can contain high and variable amounts of iodine. Your thyroid needs iodine, but too much can cause thyroid problems in some people.^[4] Talk with your doctor before using sea moss if you have a thyroid condition, take thyroid medication, already take iodine or kelp supplements, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Because seaweed can also absorb heavy metals from its environment, choose products from brands that are clear about sourcing.

Our Shilajit Ashwagandha Complex also contains ashwagandha and shilajit, which have their own precautions. Read The History of Shilajit and The History of Ashwagandha.

The bottom line

From the rocky shores of Ireland to Massachusetts mossing boats to Caribbean kitchens, sea moss has a history as rich as the waters it grows in.

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Sources

1. Guiry MD. Chondrus crispus Stackhouse (Irish Moss). The Seaweed Site.
2. Smithsonian Magazine. The history of Irish moss harvesting in Scituate, Massachusetts.
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Information for Consumers on Using Dietary Supplements.
4. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Iodine: Fact Sheet for Consumers.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Historical and traditional uses are described for context only.