Anthony Langstone, Epoch Times, Manchester, U.K. Staff
During
the potato famine of 19th century Ireland, Irish moss saved thousands of people
from starvation.
Also known as carrageen moss (meaning moss of the rock
in Irish), it is named after the town of Carragheen in southeastern Ireland. It
is also found on northern shores of the Atlantic as far south as Portugal.
The
early Irish immigrants who had migrated to Canada and New England were the first
Europeans to gather and make use of it in North America.
It contains the
polysaccharide carrageenan, a natural thickener used in soups, puddings and ice
cream.
Irish moss also contains many vitamins and trace minerals, including
iodine, bromine, beta-carotene, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus,
potassium, selenium and zinc, pectin, B vitamins and vitamin C. It contains antiviral
and antibacterial factors. Thus, those recovering from operations or illness will
find it beneficial during recuperation. The Holistic-online.com Web site states
that traditionally, "The primary role of this herb was in speeding recuperation
from debilitating illness, especially T.B. and pneumonia."
Typical
preparations come as tea, tincture or tablets made from the whole dried plant,
usually in combination with other herbs.
Because 55 percent of Irish moss
is mucilage-a thick gluey substance-it is classed as a demulcent, producing a
soothing effect by lining the mucous membranes of the intestinal tract with mucilage
that is very resistant to digestive juices. As a digestive remedy, it aids conditions
such as gastritis, colic, ulcers, flatulence, difficulty swallowing, vomiting
and diarrhea. Long-term use, however, can decrease stomach acid and thus interfere
with digestion.
In addition to soothing the intestinal tract, Irish moss
can aid respiratory complaints and urinary conditions such as kidney and bladder
inflammations. As a lung and respiratory remedy, it has the ability to help clear
the chest, ease bronchitis and restore dry and irritated mucous membranes.
Externally
Irish moss can be used to dress wounds as it alleviates pain and relieves irritation.
Its cooling and detoxifying nature comforts sunburns, bites and other skin conditions.
Since Irish moss has blood-thinning properties, it should not be used by
those taking anticoagulants.
Resources:
http://www.herbs2000.com/miss/carbohydrates.htm#Gums
http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/irish_moss.php
http://www.health-care-information.org/alternative-medicine/herbal-medicine/irish-moss.htm
http://herbalextractsplus.com/irish-moss.cfm?gclid
Article
Source: Pureinsight
Posting date: 3/Sep/2006
Original article date: 31/Aug/2006
Category:
Media Report
