May 3, 2002

IRISH MOSS

Latin Name: Chondrus crispus

Alternate Names: Carrageenan, Pearl Moss

Family: GIGARTINACEAE

Parts Used: Entire plant.

Properties: Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Demulcent, Emollient, Expectorant, Immune Stimulant, Laxative, Nutritive, Yin Tonic.

Internal Uses: Bronchitis, Convalescence, Cough, Cystitis, Diarrhea, Dysentery, Gastritis, Indigestion, Lung Dryness, Skin Dryness, Sore Throat, Swollen Glands, Thyroid Problems, Tuberculosis, Ulcers

Internal Applications: Tea, Capsules.

This gentle herb cools and soothes the gastrointestinal tract. It can help alleviate both duodenal and peptic ulcers without any negative effects upon the colon. It helps to reduce gastric secretions.

Topical Uses: Inflammation, Wrinkles

Topical Applications: Used in lotions to soften the skin and prevent premature wrinkling. Compress or poultice for inflamed tissues. It is used to thicken cosmetics and used as a binding agent, like in toothpaste.

Culinary uses: Used by the food industry to add texture and stability to ice cream, whipped cream, puddings, soups and salad dressings. It is too tough to eat raw and must first be cooked.

Energetics: Sweet, Salty, Cool.

Chemical Constituents: Protein, polysaccharides, iodine, bromine, mucilage, carrageenans, beta carotene, vitamin B-1

Contraindications: Because Irish Moss has some blood thinning properties, people taking anti-coagulating medications should avoid using it.

Comments: Irish Moss is a seaweed that was used by the Irish during the famine of the 19th century. It was once used as a mattress stuffing, as cattle feed, and as a thickener for colored inks used in printing.

-- Phil in KS (mac0328@planetkc.com), May 03, 2002

Answers

This one looks to treat "moles, colds and sore elbows" .

-- Jay Blair in N. AL (jayblair678@yahoo.com), May 05, 2002.