Benefits
Skin Health: Irish moss is most often found in skin creams and cleansers. The many essential vitamins obtained from Irish moss, especially vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin K, have superb effects on the skin. Irish moss products can help to soften the skin, reduce wrinkles and treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Anti-Viral: Irish moss is believed by many to be an effective anti-viral. It has been used to treat many symptoms of the common cold, influenza, and the mumps virus.
Upper Respiratory Support: Irish moss appears to be effective against upper respiratory problems like bronchitis and coughs. This is likely proof of its anti-viral properties in action.
Disease Recovery: Irish moss has proven to be a great aid to individuals recovering from disease and illness. The many essential vitamins and minerals are thought to replenish the body and support the immune system when in recovery. It may be particularly useful alongside radiation therapy and may help curb some of the side effects. This is likely due in part to its iodine content.
Antioxidants: Irish moss contains several antioxidants that may be helpful in preventing free radical damage in the body and lessening the risk of many types of cancer and disease. These antioxidants include the powerful vitamins A, E and K.
Ulcers: Irish moss has purportedly been used to successfully treat peptic and duodenal ulcers.
Heart Health: Irish moss is believed to help lower LDL cholesterol levels. It may also help inhibit arteriosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries. Concrete studies are needed to prove the connection between Irish moss and improved cardiovascular health.
High in Iodine: Irish moss contains a significant amount of iodine. Iodine helps to curb the effects of radiation poisoning. The iodine in Irish moss may also help with thyroid function, cancer prevention, and recovery from cancer treatment that involves radiation.
Weight Loss: Some say that consuming Irish moss is an effective way to prevent obesity. More studies are needed to confirm the connection between Irish moss and weight loss. However, it is a low calorie, nutrient dense food that appears to be a great addition to an effective weight loss program.
References
Source: “9 Health Benefits of Irish Moss”, 20 Feb 2013, http://www.healt