The SuperFood Series: Irish Sea Moss

I grew up seeing Irish sea moss dried in random bags in the cupboard and being grossed out by its appearance. My father and all his West-Indian constituents seemed to swear by it. It was introduced to me as a healing tonic specifically for men, that gave you stamina on every level. Especially with the ladies so, it was valued like choice gold and never really offered to me. I would always laugh for about 5 minutes when I thought about them drinking it. As of late, I have actually been using it in my smoothies considering, that its a seaweed, I know that its a healing food on so many other levels. Traditionally, what gelatin is to Jell-O, sea moss is to puddings, meringues, whipped cream, salad dressing, smoothies, sauces, and pretty much anything that you want a stable-liquid form for. While gelatin is an animal derived protein, Irish sea moss contains a polysaccharide (a natural form of sugar) which when thoroughly blended, also disperses throughout the liquid to create a semi-solid structure. In fact, the carageenan found in sea moss makes it a very valuable component in the mainstream food industry. In addition to its functional benefits, sea moss has an excellent source of minerals. This almost tasteless seaweed is loaded with life enhancing nutrients, such as sulphur, protein, iodine, bromine, beta-carotene, calcium, iron, magnesium, maganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, pectin, B vitamins, and vitamin C. Phosphates of potassium and calcium, sodium, and magnesium are required by the cells of the brain, liver, skin, and bones. Calcium phosphate salts in particular, form the major insoluble inorganic component of the bone, giving us stronger bones and teeth. Notably absent from a vegetarian diet, sulphur containing acids, such as taurine, are abundant in Irish moss, more so than any other type of seaweed. It has been recognized for its ability to cure and abate the symptoms of colds and flu, it forms an effective barrier to all the ills of winter. It is high in potassium chloride, this chemical assist in dissolving catarrhs, which are responsible for the congestion associated with chest colds. It is also effective in healing sore throats, bronchitis, tuberculosis, and pneumonia. It is a soothing aid to all mucous membranes. Irish Moss eases such digestive ailments as gastritis, dyspepsia, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, constipation, and peptic and duodenal ulcers. When used topically, it provides relief to eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, sunburn, and chapped skin. Due to its strong alkaline nature, sea moss is effective in the relief and cure of bunions. The alkalinity of this magical herb is not attributed to sodium bicarbonate or potash, which are the major ingredients in many of the over the counter alkalizers. This has also made it an effective healing tool for a hangover. It replaces much of the ion content that is leached from the body as a result of the dehydrating effect attributed to the consumption of alcohol. It is also reported to be effective against cancer and radiation poisoning (due to its iodine content), halitosis, the formation of varicose veins, inflammation, dysentery, arteriosclerosis, and hypertension. Sea moss protects the body from fat and cholesterol build up. It has an anti-coagulant effect in the blood and clears up many bladder complaints. Below is one of my favorite smoothie recipes as of late. My fam at RawSoul in NYC introduced me to it and I am forever a loyal fan. Please check Eddie and Lillian out at www.rawsoul.com They are doing so many good and innovative works in the world and in the living foods community. I am truly thankful for knowing and learning from them...Bless Up..

Chocolate Heaven (Its bliss in a cup) Enjoy....

-1 or 2 Young Thai Coconut (water and meat) it depends on how big you want it...
- About 1/4 cup of Irish sea moss (it has to be soaked and blended separately before adding)
-2 Tblsp of Raw Cacao powder (it depends on how much chocolate you like)
-Agave Nectar to taste
-And a bit of ice but, not too much
Blend and you will enjoy...For True