Carrageen, Or Irish Moss

Carrageenan, also known as Irish moss, is a species of red algae known as Rhodophyceae. Common names for this algae include rock moss and cartilaginous algae. Carrageen is also available in pharmacies under the name "dried red seaweed".

The thallus of red algae has a multiple forked-branched structure and a gelatinous-fleshy consistency. It can reach 10-15 cm in length. In water, these algae lose their characteristic color.

Carrageenan grows in abundance along the North Atlantic coast. It contains many useful substances, such as mucus, protein, minerals (especially bromine and iodine).

Due to its high mucus content, carrageenan is widely used in medicine as an emollient and anti-inflammatory agent for catarrh of the respiratory and intestinal organs. This plant can also serve as a mild laxative.

Carrageen is also used in the food industry as a thickener and stabilizer for sauces, desserts, and other products. This is due to the fact that carrageenan has the ability to bind water and form gel-like structures.

In conclusion, carrageenan or Irish moss is an amazing plant with many beneficial properties. It is used both in medicine and in the food industry, and is an important element in many products.