Irish Moss / Carrageen Moss (Chondrus crispus)

I. General Information

A. Scientific Name:

Chondrus crispus

B. Alternative Names:

Alternative Names:

C. Pronunciation:

air-ish moss / kar-uh-geen

II. Sourcing and Origin

A. Source:

Hand-harvested from rocky shores of Ireland, Canada, and parts of Northern Europe.

B. Geographic Origin:

North Atlantic (Europe, North America)

C. Method of Processing:

Harvested, dried, boiled to extract carrageenan

III. Properties and Uses

A. Physical Properties:

Red-purple fronds, gelatinous when boiled

B. Chemical Composition:

Carrageenan, iodine, calcium, potassium, mucilage

C. Primary Uses:

Skincare: Moisturizing gels

Haircare: Conditioning ingredient

Wellness: Digestive and immune support

Culinary: Puddings, desserts, thickener

Household: Natural gelling agent

D. Key Benefits:

Natural thickener, supports digestion, versatile use

IV. Safety and Considerations

A. Potential Allergies:

Rare; carrageenan sensitivity in some individuals

B. Best Practices for Use:

Rinse thoroughly, soak, and boil to make gel

C. Special Precautions:

Processed carrageenan differs from whole Irish moss—choose natural sources

V. Fun & Educational Facts

A. Historical Context:

Consumed during famines in Ireland; traditional remedy

B. Did You Know?

Irish moss is used in brewing beer for clarity

C. DIY Recipe Idea:

Irish moss pudding

Vegan “sea moss” gel

Smoothies with Irish moss