Sea moss is a plant that grows naturally in the ocean on reefs and rocks. It is often described as a sea vegetable that is similar to algae or seaweed. In some countries sea moss is referred to as Irish moss or Irish sea moss.
Although sea moss is a recent trend for the United States, it was a popular staple in other countries well before. There are several varieties of sea moss with scientific names that change depending on location. The sea moss grown in the tropical waters around the Caribbean and around Central and South America, Asia, and Africa is red/purple/occasionally gold, comes from the genus Eucheuma (Eucheuma Cottonii and Eucheuma Spinosum). Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) is found on rocks along coastlines of the North Atlantic Ocean near Northern Europe and North America. Irish Moss would not be found in tropical waters just like Eucheuma would not be found in cooler waters. There are other distinct differences between Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) and Eucheuma sea moss that can be quickly realized simply by appearance. This will be discussed more in later articles.
Sea moss has been around for ages around the Caribbean and Ireland. Historians and archaeologists alike found evidence that dates it back to 400 BC. This densely packed superfood has been utilized for its medicinal benefits and nutrients such as having 92 of the 102 minerals the body needs. During the potato famine in Ireland in the mid-1800s (1845-1849), food was scarce, people were starving. They began eating the red algae (Chondrus Crispus - Irish Moss) that grew on the rocks. After the famine, Chondrus Crispus sea moss was associated with hardship/poverty, therefore it was not eaten too much afterwards…until recent times. In recent years the late, great Dr. Sebi brought the health benefits of sea moss to the forefront again. It is believed that he discussed and used the Eucheuma sea moss from tropical waters and probably not Chondrus Crispus or Irish Moss.
Our Kb Spice sea moss is a mix of the gold and purple variety grown on reefs off the coast of the island Grenada. It is believed that the Kb Spice Sea moss is of the Eucheuma family and not of the Chondrus Crispus or Irish Moss variety since Grenada is located in the Caribbean. As stated, Chondrus Crispus sea moss is usually found in colder climates than the Eucheuma variety that Kb Spice sells. The Kb Spice sea moss is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Kb Spice farmers use sustainable practices to help preserve the ocean while diving for and harvesting our sea moss.
Kb Spice is a specialized store headquartered in cultural St. Louis, Missouri. Kb Spice products are supplied from the beautiful island of Grenada. We sell several various herbs and spices such as sea moss, true cinnamon, and tea leaves such as moringa, lemongrass, and soursop.
Be sure to visit our store at kbspice.com for all your herbs and spices needs.
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