Did You Know...

That Irish Moss (also known as Carragheen Moss) is not a true moss, but rather the dried leaf like structure of a northern seaweed? Irish moss is widely believed to have the power to bring about good fortune in money matters, both through business success and through good luck in gambling. Some people are known to carry a pinch of Irish moss in a green flannel bag or in their pocket when they go to place a bet or buy a lottery ticket because they believe it will bring in the winnings. Others like to sprinkle Irish moss under the carpets in their place of business to attract and hold a stream of steady paying customers.

Irish moss is found on rocks, in pools, and in lower intertidal and shallow subtidal waters in Ireland.

Irish moss contains vitamins A,D,E,F,K, iodine, calcium, and sodium and is known to contain 15 of 18 elements composing the human body. It is sometimes used in digestive conditions where a demulcent is called for, such as in gastritis and ulcerations on the stomach. The soothing activity is also useful in inflammations of the urinary system.

Irish moss can also be used as a thickening agent in soups, jellies and other foods. In Ireland it's sometimes used for respiratory disorders.

Other plants used for fortune and luck are Aloe, Anise, Basil, Clover, Daffodil, Hazel, Holly, Linden, Nutmeg, Oak, Pomegranate, Snakeroot, Strawberry and Violet.

In Jamaica there is a drink made using Irish Moss that is said to “put it back,” or “put lead in your pencil.” Good for writers wouldn't you agree?

Jamaican Irish Moss Drink
1/2 lb Irish Moss
2 oz. Gum Arabic
4oz. Isinglass
4oz. Linseed
1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 lb Sugar
2 tbsp. Vanilla Flavoring
1/2 of a Nutmeg
4 qts. Water

Wash the moss in the sink to remove sand or foreign matter . Bring water to a boil and then add moss, linseed, isinglass, and gum arabic.

Let the ingredients cook until everything is dissolved, except the the moss. This will take about an hour or so.

Strain the liquid into another container and separate the boiled Irish moss from the drink.

Add the rest of the ingredients to the mixture, now do a taste test. Add more of anything you feel that would make this drink taste the way you want it to.

Put it to cool in the refrigerator for 4 hours and then serve in 12 oz. cups.

Note: Because the thickness of this drink can vary, you may have to dilute this mixture to an acceptable level of consistency.

This drink can be flavored with other flavorings such as Jamaican Strawberry Syrup, or add Peanut Butter, or Rolled Oats, or Ground Cashews, the possibilities are endless.