Irish Moss

CHONDRUS CRISPUS (IRISH MOSS) The Oceanic Demulcent—A Red Seaweed for Mucosal Health, Mineral Support, and Skin Nourishment BOTANICAL IDENTIFICATION Scientific Name: Chondrus crispus Stackh.Common Names: Irish Moss, Carrageen Moss, Sea MossFamily: Gigartinaceae Chondrus crispus is a perennial red algae that grows 10–20 cm tall, with fan-shaped fronds that branch into flattened, cartilaginous lobes. Its color ranges from yellow-green to dark red, depending on light exposure and nutrient content. Native to the North Atlantic coasts, it thrives along the rocky shores of Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and New England. It prefers tidal zones with cold, nutrient-rich waters. Adaptations include a mucilaginous cell wall containing carrageenan, which protects against desiccation during low tide. CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL USE Irish Moss has been a staple of coastal herbal medicine since at least the 17th century in Ireland and Scotland, where it was boiled into broths to support recovery during fa