Irish Moss

Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory

With modern attention on dramatically effective `miracle drugs', it is refreshing to remember the nourishing, and strengthening food medicines such as Irish Moss. This safety gives it some unique contributions to make in health care. Traditionally the main use of Irish Moss is in respiratory illness where it is often the core of prescriptions to treat irritating coughs, bronchitis and many other lung problems. It may be freely used in digestive conditions where a demulcent is called for, such as gastritis and ulceration of the stomach and duodenum. The soothing activity is also seen in inflammations of the urinary system. It has been used as a food in maintenance diets for diabetes patients.
However, its primary role was in speeding recuperation from debilitating illness, especially T.B. and pneumonia. Convalescence from major disease needs to be given more attention than it receives today. Herbs such as Irish Moss and other tonic nutritive remedies have much to offer in facilitating proper recovery of health. In these times of degenerative disease being the major killer in our society, such perspectives cry out for attention.
Recent research has shown an anti-viral property against the influenza B and the mumps viruses. Unfortunately the research was undertaken on animals, but supports the traditional use of Irish Moss in such conditions. This line of study has also confirmed the herbs value in treating ulcers and suggested exciting possibilities with an anti-coagulant effect. King's suggests its use as a demulcent in:

• Chronic affections of the air passages
• Chronic diarrhoea and dysentery
• Scrofula
• Rickets
• Enlarged mesenteric glands
• Irritation of the bladder and kidneys, etc.

As a culinary article it may be employed in the preparation of jellies, white soup, blancmange etc.