Herbal Tea

Irish Moss Tea Bag

Botanical Name: Chondrus crispus

Carrageenan (Irish Moss) is made from parts of various red algae or seaweeds and is used for medicine.

Herbal tea such as Irish Moss Tea Bag is used for coughs, bronchitis, tuberculosis, and intestinal problems. The French use a form that has been changed by adding acid and high temperatures. This form is used to treat peptic ulcers, and as a bulk laxative.

Some people apply carrageenan directly to the skin for discomfort around the anus.

In manufacturing, Irish Moss is used as a binder, thickening agent, and as a stabilizer in medications, foods, and toothpaste. Carrageenan is also an ingredient in weight loss products like herbal tea.

Carrageenan contains chemicals that may decrease stomach and intestinal secretions. Large amounts of carrageenan seem to pull water into the intestine, and this may explain why it is tried as a laxative. Carrageenan also might decrease pain and swelling (inflammation).

• Cough

• Weight loss

• Constipation

• Peptic ulcers

• Intestinal problems