3 Types Of Sea Moss At Medicinal Mother

Sea Moss Varieties: Unveiling The Difference 

One of the biggest confusions when it comes to sea moss is the different nature of colors and their differences in benefit. In this article, we will discuss the science behind their appearances and what differentiates them from each other.

 Sea moss, genuinely considered a remarkable edible seaweed comes with a rich history of holistic wellness and is available in a few varieties typically known as Irish Sea Moss (Scientifically Chondrus Crispus) (Green) (Genus Gracilaria) (Purple) and (Eucheuma cottonii) (Gold). With shades of colors varying between the species, the nutritious value in all is forms considered potently high. 

This oceanic gem thrives along the Atlantic coastlines of Europe, North America, and certain Caribbean islands. It's an age-old secret cherished by millions for its bounty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and its grace in enhancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being qualifying it as one of nature's best superfoods. A widely practiced substance used in various medicinal ailments due to its anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

With all 3 types of algae containing an astonishing variety of vitamins and minerals across the spectrum, some types of algae possess unique or mar of certain properties than others. These mosses grow in various oceans globally but have retained the general (Irish) label due to the deep connection the Irish obtained throughout their history, primarily used during the 15th century ‘great famine’, It has since gained increased notability for becoming a traditional versatile medicine through generations aiding several conditions whilst also serving as a powerhouse concoction of nutrients. 

Purple Sea Moss Benefits 

 (Genus Gracilaria)

Anthocyanins, a subgroup of phytonutrients is a type of highly powerful antioxidant present in the genus Gracilaria water plant giving its purple, blue-like pigmentation. Other examples are present in such foods as blueberries, blackcurrants, cherries, and red cabbage.

 Typically found along the Caribbean coastlines this particular sea moss is commonly higher in certain types of antioxidants although they do not undermine the potency of the other kinds in nutritional value. Some properties worth noting are

  • Live bacteria - gut health improvement 
  • Higher Iodine content - thyroid regulation
  • Increased anti-oxidant content (anthocyanins) - Responsible for cell damage protection and improved skin appearance

 Green Sea Moss Benefits

(Chondrus crispus) 

Green sea moss inhabits its rich green color from the photosynthesis occurrence common in all green leaves and plants, typically found growing on rocks in shallow waters along the Caribbean and Atlantic coastlines.

Alongside the main super presence of vitamins and minerals in green sea moss, its high content of chlorophyll comes with a list of its own benefits but is more famously known for binding to heavy/toxic metals in the bloodstream and removing them. Here are some of the main benefits of chlorophyll to consider;

  • Blood detox 
  • Body odor control
  • Skin repair against photoaging (sun damage)
  • Wound healing properties 
  • Cancer cell growth reduction studied in lung/colon 

Golden sea moss benefits

(Eucheuma Cottonii) 

 This is the most common color of sea moss. Rich in carotenoids, another kind of phytonutrient, which is also powerful antioxidants typically similar to the amounts found in the genus Gracilaria kind. These phytonutrients are responsible for yellow/orange pigmentation found in golden sea moss and also many fruits and vegetables such as mangoes, apricots, sweet potatoes, and carrots. 

Once in the body, these carotenoids convert to Vitamin A when needed which fulfills its typical duties including cell regulation, hydration, and the role of antioxidants. Golden Sea Moss is a great source of the following antioxidants;

  • Beta-carotene
  • Lutein 
  • Zeaxanthin  

     These antioxidants are best known for their role in supporting eye health against two of the most common conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Also protecting the retina function from damage caused by harmful light such as ultraviolet rays.

    Golden sea moss is the most widely available of the 3 and is nutrient-dense in supporting numerous conditions.

    All three types of sea moss contain abundant health-boosting components optimized for human well-being and regeneration. You can rest assured that each variety, whether Gracilaria, Chondrus crispus, or Eucheuma, effectively provides these beneficial properties to support your health and vitality. 

    Liu, R., et al. (2015). Lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation and association with visual function in age-related macular degeneration.https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2293887

    Bowers, W. F. (1947, January). Chlorophyll in wound healing and suppurative disease [Abstract]. The American Journal of Surgery, 73(1), 37–50https://www.americanjournalofsurgery.com/article/0002-9610(47)90287-0/fulltext

    Christiansen, S. B., Byel, S. R., Strømsted, H., Stenderup, J. K., & Eickhoff, J. H. (1989, July 3). Can chlorophyll reduce fecal odor in colostomy patients? [Abstract]. Ugeskrift for Laeger, 151(27), 1753–1754https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2675439

    Das, J., Samadder, A., Mondal, J., Abraham, S. K., & Khuda-Bukhsh, A. R. (2016, September). Nano-encapsulated chlorophyllin significantly delays progression of lung cancer both in in vitro and in vivo models through activation of mitochondrial signaling cascades and drug-DNA interaction [Abstract]. Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 46, 147-157https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1382668916301843

    deVogel, J., Jonker-Termont, S. M. L., Kata, M. B., van der Meer, R. (2005, August 1). Natural chlorophyll prevents heme-induced cytoxic and hyperproliferative effects in rat colon. The Journal of Nutrition , 135(8), 1995-2000https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/135/8/1995/4663938

    Lam, C. R., & Brush, B. E. (1950, August). Chlorophyll and wound healing: Experimental and clinical study [Abstract]. The American Journal of Surgery, 80(2), 204–210https://www.americanjournalofsurgery.com/article/0002-9610(50)90531-9/pdf

    McCook, J. P., Stephens, T. J., Jiang, L. I., Law, R. M., & Gotz, V. (2016, July 25). Ability of sodium copper chlorophyllin complex to repair photoaged skin by stimulation of biomarkers in human extracellular matrix. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 9, 167–174https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4966572/

    Rasmussen, H. M., & Johnson, E. J. (2013). Nutrients for the aging eye.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3693724/

     

     

     

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