More and more people are sharing their experiences with a DIY food supplement on TikTok: the so-called sea moss gel. This is said to help clear the skin and detox the body. STYLEBOOK asked experts.
What is sea moss gel?
In countries like Scotland, Ireland and Jamaica, sea moss, also known as Irish moss, has been used as a homeopathic remedy for centuries. “Sea moss belongs to the red algae, which in turn belong to the macroalgae and are very popular with raw foodists and vegans as so-called “supergreens”,” explains ecotrophologist Silke Restemeyer. These plants from the sea are particularly valued as suppliers of bioenergy. “The high content of fiber, polyunsaturated fatty acids, minerals and some vitamins in various edible micro- and macroalgae makes them potentially valuable foods that can complement a balanced diet,” adds the expert.
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The benefits of sea moss
The algae are said to ensure cleaner skin, a more balanced intestinal flora and a stronger immune system. Although sea moss contains many nutrients that can make the skin more vital and inhibit inflammation, there are no long-term scientific studies that prove these effects. The same also applies to a potentially health-promoting effect in cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 or cancer. “In this area, the data is not sufficient to be able to make clear statements,” says Restemeyer.
Sea moss in skin care
The Munich dermatologist Dr. Liebich: “Irish moss contains many minerals as well as vitamins A, B, C and D. These have an antioxidant effect and can improve the overall structure of the skin. However, if you want to process the algae in a cosmetic, you should rather use a professional product. Otherwise there is a risk that the positive effect of the minerals and vitamins will be canceled out by other active ingredients. Good research is therefore important!”
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Make sea moss gel at home
If you prefer to take the algae as a dietary supplement instead, you can make so-called sea moss gel relatively easily at home. To do this, first wash 125 g of dried sea moss until the water is clear. Then soak the algae in 170 ml of water overnight and puree them together in a blender the next day. Pour the mixture into a mason jar and refrigerate for 24 hours. The sea moss gel now has a jelly-like consistency and can be consumed. The gel can either be consumed on its own or mixed into a breakfast smoothie.
How long does sea moss gel last?
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It will last up to three weeks if stored in a cool place. The cost of the DIY dietary supplement is around 10 to 15 euros.
Potential Risks of Sea Moss Gel
One should not consume sea moss gel – but also other algae – on a daily basis. These can be enriched with heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, aluminum and arsenic. “This heavy metal load can promote cardiovascular, kidney or even bone diseases over a longer period of time,” explains ecotrophologist Silke Restemeyer. Furthermore, some algae also contain an above-average amount of iodine. Such supplements are therefore not suitable for people with thyroid diseases. It is better, for example, to have a health-promoting diet by putting together a well-considered menu.
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– with expert advice from Dipl. oec. troph Silke Restemeyer, press and public relations officer at the German Society for Nutrition e. V
– dr medical Christoph Liebich, specialist in skin and venereal diseases and owner of the DERMAZENT practice in Munich
