Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, has gained popularity in recent years. This superfood has been a favorite of wellness enthusiasts who add it to their smoothies for decades. Furthermore, sea moss has become increasingly popular as a skincare ingredient for treating psoriasis.
The high vitamin and mineral content of sea moss make it beneficial when ingested or applied topically. According to Spate’s January 2021 Top Rising Ingredients Report, searches for sea moss as a treatment for psoriasis have seen a steady growth of 207.7% over the past few years.
Sea moss gel is not a new ingredient, as it has been traditionally used in drinks and food in the Caribbean and Ireland. In other cultures, it has also been used as a remedy for a range of ailments, including coughs and low libido. This article provides a comprehensive guide to sea moss, including its skincare benefits and how to incorporate it into your routine.
Benefits of Using Sea Moss for Psoriasis
Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a natural ingredient that has been gaining popularity as a potential treatment for psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches that can be itchy and painful. Here are some of the potential benefits of using sea moss for psoriasis:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Sea moss contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. This can help relieve symptoms such as redness and itching.
- Boosts immune system: Sea moss contains vitamins and minerals that can help boost the immune system. This is important because psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system is overactive and attacking healthy skin cells.
- Soothes skin: Sea moss is rich in minerals that can help soothe and moisturize the skin. This can be especially helpful for people with psoriasis, as dry skin can exacerbate symptoms.
- Detoxifies the body: Sea moss has been shown to have detoxifying properties, which can help remove toxins from the body that may be contributing to psoriasis symptoms.
- Nutrient-dense: Sea moss is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health. These nutrients can help support healthy skin and may even help prevent psoriasis flare-ups.
While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of using sea moss for psoriasis, it is a natural ingredient that may offer relief for some people.
How to use Sea Moss to Treat Psoriasis
Here are some ways to use sea moss to treat psoriasis:
- Ingestion: Sea moss can be added to smoothies, soups, or other dishes for ingestion. This can provide the body with the vitamins and minerals that may help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.
- Topical application: Sea moss can also be applied topically to the skin as a gel or lotion. The gel can be made by soaking sea moss in water and then blending it into a smooth paste. This gel can be applied to the affected areas of skin and left on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
- Bath soak: Adding sea moss to a warm bath can also help soothe psoriasis symptoms. Simply add a handful of sea moss to the bathwater and soak for 15-20 minutes.
Note: Sea moss may provide relief for some people with psoriasis, it is not a cure for the condition.
How to Prepare Sea Moss to treat Psoriasis
Here’s how to prepare sea moss for topical use:
- Rinse the sea moss thoroughly in water to remove any debris.
- Soak the sea moss in water for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Drain the water and rinse the sea moss again.
- Add the sea moss to a blender with enough water to cover it, and blend until it becomes a smooth gel-like consistency.
- Store the sea moss gel in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator.
To use the sea moss gel topically for psoriasis, apply a thin layer to the affected areas of skin and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Repeat this process daily or as needed.
To use sea moss for ingestion, soak the sea moss in water overnight, rinse it thoroughly, and blend it with water until it becomes a smooth paste. This paste can be added to smoothies, soups, or other dishes for ingestion.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using sea moss as a treatment for psoriasis, especially if you have any allergies or medical conditions.
What Skin Types Can Use Sea Moss?
Sea moss is generally safe for all skin types, as it is a natural ingredient that is non-toxic and non-irritating. However, as with any skincare product, it is important to patch test sea moss on a small area of your skin before using it on your entire face or body. This can help you determine if you have any allergic reactions or sensitivities to sea moss.
Sea moss is particularly beneficial for dry or mature skin types, as it is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help hydrate and nourish the skin. It is also a good option for those with sensitive skin, as it is gentle and non-irritating.
However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, it is important to use sea moss products that are specifically formulated for your skin type. Some sea moss products may be too heavy or occlusive for oily skin, which can lead to breakouts or clogged pores. Look for sea moss products that are lightweight and non-comedogenic, and avoid using sea moss in conjunction with other heavy or oily skincare products.
Negative Aspects of Using Sea Moss to treat Psoriasis
While sea moss may offer some potential benefits for treating psoriasis, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider:
- Lack of research: While sea moss has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, there is currently limited scientific research on its effectiveness for treating psoriasis. More research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of using sea moss for psoriasis.
- Interactions with medication: Sea moss may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and thyroid medications. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using sea moss as a treatment for psoriasis, especially if you are taking any medications.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to sea moss or other types of seaweed. If you experience an allergic reaction, such as itching or swelling, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
- Contamination: Sea moss can be contaminated with heavy metals or other toxins if it is harvested from polluted waters. It is important to purchase sea moss from a reputable source to ensure it is free from contaminants.
- Inconsistent quality: The quality and potency of sea moss can vary depending on the source and how it is harvested and processed. This can make it difficult to determine the appropriate dosage for treating psoriasis.
Why are people using Sea Moss to Treat Psoriasis?
People are using sea moss to treat psoriasis because it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with psoriasis. Sea moss is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, which can help support overall skin health and may play a role in managing psoriasis symptoms.
Additionally, sea moss is a natural ingredient that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions. As interest in natural remedies and plant-based therapies has grown in recent years, more people are turning to sea moss as a complementary treatment for psoriasis.