Homemade Sea Moss Lemonade (Recipe, Benefits & Risks)

Ever wondered how to make sea moss lemonade? Get ready to quench your thirst in one of the healthiest ways possible! I stumbled upon sea moss lemonade a few months ago and it’s become a go-to treat in our home ever since! 

This sea moss lemonade is refreshing, of course, but there’s a lot more to it. Sea moss is packed with nutrients that support immunity, digestion, and skin health. Plus, when combined with the powerful antioxidants in lemons, it creates an unbeatable combination!

It’s so easy to make and it makes sea moss taste great, too. Whether I’m feeling run down or just need a pick-me-up, a glass of sea moss lemonade always does the trick. 

I hope you’ll join me in discovering the amazing benefits of sea moss lemonade. Give it a try and see for yourself!

Sea moss lemonade is a refreshing and nutritious drink made by blending sea moss with lemon juice, honey, and other optional ingredients like spices. This creates a tangy and sweet drink that is packed with nutrients and minerals that are beneficial for our health. It helps improve digestion, boost the immune system, improve skin health, and support overall wellness. Sea moss can be hard to get down on its own, but adding it to a drink like this will make it tasty and enjoyable!

What is sea moss?

Sea Moss is a red algae that’s been gaining popularity for its wonderful nutritional benefits. It grows on the rocky parts of the Atlantic coast and North America and is known by several names, including Irish moss, Chondrus Crispus, and Carrageen moss. 

It’s usually harvested from the ocean and then cleaned and dried. This process removes any sand, salt, or other impurities before drying. Sea moss is then stored for later use or turned into products like gel, powder, or capsules.

Sea moss is commonly used in a variety of ways:

• Food thickener (gelling agent)
• Dietary supplements (capsules, powders)
• Added to topical beauty products (body lotions, soaps, shampoos, toothpaste)
• ​​​​Pharmaceuticals (dressings, coatings)
• Home remedies (gels, drinks, salves, balms)
• Natural fertilizer (for enriching soils)

This superfood is not only vegan and gluten-free, but it’s packed with essential nutrients like vitamins B2, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Its high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provides a range of potential health benefits, all without any unwanted calories, fat, sodium, and carbohydrates. Plus, it has zero cholesterol, fiber, sugar, and protein, making it a guilt-free and healthy addition to your diet!

Ingredients for sea moss lemonade

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Sea moss

Most consumable forms of sea moss can be used in this recipe like powdered, liquid/gel, or dried raw. You can find sea moss in multiple colors like green, black, gold, or purple. Purple tends to be best since it has more antioxidants, but gold is the most popular and available. What’s crucial is using well-sourced, clean, organic sea moss.

Seriously – do your research here! I have used this organic wildcrafted gold Irish sea moss in my recipe.

Dried raw sea moss is the most cost-effective but requires extra work to prepare.
Sea moss gel is the most convenient but the most expensive.
Powders are the most versatile and potent with no shelf life.

Lemons

Lemons are the perfect addition to a sea moss lemonade recipe because they offer a tangy and fresh flavor that complements the earthy taste of sea moss. They’re also packed with numerous health benefits. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, and citric acid, and they also contain antioxidants. 

Honey 

A natural sweetener like honey offers a delicious and healthier alternative to sugar in this recipe. I used organic amber honey, but for an added nutritional boost you can use manuka honey or raw organic honey. Its rich source of antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients provide additional health benefits. 

Filtered water

Good old H20. Though you could use any kind of water, I always use filtered water. Water is essential for maintaining good health as it has several important functions in the body, so this is a perfect way to add even more of it into your daily routine!

Optional add-ins

Ginger is my all-time favorite optional add-in for this recipe, especially when my family is combating a cold. Second to that would be pineapple juice, but you can mix it up and have fun with it! Try basil, strawberries, peaches, raspberries, and more. A very popular addition is bladderwrack to boost sea moss’ health benefits. 

How to make sea moss lemonade 

Step 1: Prepare sea moss

If you already have sea moss gel, skip this step.

With dried raw sea moss:

Submerge 1 oz of dried raw Irish sea moss (about 29 grams when weighed) in cold filtered water and massage the sea moss. Be sure to remove any visible dirt and debris before draining. Repeat once more.

Soak sea moss in filtered or spring water (no tap water) for 6-24 hours at room temperature. Make sure the sea moss is fully submerged and covered.

You’ll know your sea moss is hydrated when it has doubled in size, lightens, and becomes gelatinous. Once this happens, drain the hydrated sea moss and transfer it to a blender with 1 cup of filtered or spring water. You can use the water that the sea moss was soaking in as it is now rich in minerals and nutrients, but it will taste much stronger.

Blend for 1-3 minutes until it becomes a thick liquid. Add more water if necessary to your desired consistency, up to no more than 2 cups total. You want a custard-like smooth thick consistency. It will form a gel in the fridge.

Set ⅓ or ¾ cup aside for this lemonade recipe, depending on your desired potency level. Transfer the rest into an airtight container/mason jar and refrigerate the excess to allow the gel to thicken (about 2 hours). Sea moss gel can last 1 month in the fridge. 

With powdered sea moss:

In an airtight jar, add 1/4 cup of sea moss powder to 2 cups of filtered water. Use less powder for a thinner consistency. Shake the jar to thoroughly combine. Alternatively, you can blend together in a blender. Set ⅓ or ¾ cup aside for this recipe, and transfer the rest to the refrigerator, covered, for 2-6 hours until it becomes a gel.

Step 2: Prepare the honey syrup

In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with 1/2 cup of honey. Raw and unprocessed honey adds a ton more health benefits to this lemonade but changes the flavor slightly. 

Gently heat this mixture on the stovetop until the honey is dissolved. Set it aside away from heat for a few minutes to cool. 

Step 3: Combine ingredients

Add 1 cup of your freshly squeezed lemon juice to a 2-quart pitcher, followed by 5 cups of water. Add in honey syrup, as needed, to bring to your desired level of sweetness. Lastly, add ⅓ or ¾ cup of your sea moss gel to the mixture and stir to combine. Dress it up with any garnishes you want!

If your sea moss gel was thick, you may want to blend the lemonade for a smooth consistency. 

Refrigerate until chilled to allow flavors and consistency to build up. I recommend refrigerating for at least 2 hours before serving. Alternatively, you can pour over ice and serve right away (but it will taste even better if you wait!)

Serve and enjoy your sea moss lemonade!

Tips for how to make the best sea moss lemonade

Making sea moss lemonade is not only super easy, but you’re able to customize your lemonade exactly to your liking. This is the beauty of making your own lemonade at home.

• Use fresh lemon juice – store-bought lemon juice from concentrate or pre-squeezed lemon juice just won’t taste the same.
• Use good quality ingredients – fresh, vibrant lemons, organic honey, and clean filtered water will all help to make your lemonade taste even better.
• Slow with the sweetener – taste test the lemonade mixture as you add your honey water to suit it to your tastebuds.
• Keep or remove the pulp – you can strain the lemonade through a fine mesh sieve to easily remove the pulp or keep it all in.
• Cool it in the fridge – after you mix everything, the lemonade needs a little time to cool in the fridge to help bring out the flavors even more.
• Add extra flavors – try adding different herbs or fruit to your lemonade to make a whole new delicious flavor.

Best uses for sea moss lemonade

• Those who don’t like the taste of sea moss on its own
• Enhancing daily nutrient intake
• Helping respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma
• Improving digestion
• Boosting the overall immune system
• Supporting heart health
• Enhancing thyroid function
• Promoting skin health
• Support gut health
• Increasing energy levels
• Post-workout to help muscles recover faster
• As part of a weight management plan

YOU WILL LOVE THIS: Like incorporating incredibly nutritious drinks into your diet? Check out our decadent bone broth hot chocolate recipe for a healthy chocolatey treat.

Health benefits of sea moss lemonade 

People have eaten sea moss for centuries with tons of anecdotal evidence of its benefits. However, scientists are only now beginning to properly research its medical benefits. Because lemons and honey are already so well-researched, I’ve only linked to studies related to sea moss.

Here’s what we know so far in terms of the potential health benefits of sea moss lemonade:

It’s nutrient-dense

The combination of sea moss, lemon, and honey in this lemonade delivers a rich source of several essential nutrients and offers tons of health benefits. It is nutrient-dense, and packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a health-boosting drink that supports overall wellness.

Vitamins: The addition of lemon brings in Vitamin C, while sea moss provides vitamins A, E, and B-vitamins like folate and B12 (though not all are easily absorbed by the body).

Minerals: Sea moss is loaded with minerals like iodine, magnesium, potassium, and iron, and honey offers its own set of minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium.

Antioxidants: Both lemon and sea moss are rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Fiber: These ingredients create a fiber-rich drink that helps keep the digestive system functioning smoothly.

Supports a healthy immune system

Sea moss has high levels of vitamins (A, C, E), minerals (iron, potassium), and antioxidants, which are beneficial for a healthy immune system.¹ The combined nutrients of lemons, sea moss, and honey work together to prevent cellular damage, promote overall health, and improve the immune response. 

Not only that, but sea moss contains phytochemicals, which are plant-based compounds that have potential health benefits like an improved immune response.

Improves skin health

Sea moss is rich in vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for the skin.² Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the risk of skin conditions like acne. The vitamins and minerals in lemon juice and honey also have skin-friendly properties.

RELATED: Have you heard of goot salve? It’s a natural healing salve perfect for healing tons of different skin irritations and infections.

Reduces inflammation

Sea moss is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties due to its high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.³ It also contains anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The combination of sea moss and lemon juice in this lemonade recipe makes it an amazing drink to help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

YOU MIGHT LIKE: Our recipe for delicious umami black garlic paste is also packed with amazing health benefits, including reducing inflammation.

Supports thyroid function

Sea moss is a natural source of iodine, a mineral that is essential for proper thyroid function.⁴ Plus, the combination of honey, water, lemon juice, and sea moss provides nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are also important for maintaining a healthy thyroid function.

Aids digestion

Sea moss is high in fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.⁵ The lemon juice in the sea moss lemonade is a good source of Vitamin C, which can also aid in digestion by helping to break down food. The honey can soothe an upset stomach, while the water helps to flush out waste and toxins from the digestive system. 

Promotes heart health

Sea moss is rich in potassium, which is important for maintaining a healthy heart and blood pressure.⁶ It’s also one of the best plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for the heart and cardiovascular system. The antioxidants in honey can help reduce oxidative stress, a key factor in heart disease. Lemon is high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can help lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease.

Helps with weight loss

Sea moss has been suggested to help with weight loss because of its low-calorie content and high fiber content, which can help you feel full and regulate digestion.⁷

ALSO CHECK OUT: See 25 tasty recipes that use bone broth.

Boosts gut health

​​The fiber in sea moss can help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria and support overall gut health.⁸ A lot of that fiber is polysaccharides, which our bodies can’t break down, but the good bacteria in our gut can. It essentially acts like a prebiotic or food source for our beneficial gut bacteria. Honey is also prebiotic while lemon is a good source of Vitamin C, which can protect the gut from harmful pathogens. 

Anti-tumor and anti-metastatic properties

Sea moss contains sulfated polysaccharides which have many benefits for our health, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. There is growing research that suggests these polysaccharides may also have anti-tumor and anti-metastatic properties.⁹ Honey has also been found to have potential anti-cancer properties. 

CANCER-FIGHTING DRINK: Turkey tail tea is not only amazing for aiding in the treatment of cancer but it has so many other benefits as well for general wellness.

Improves blood sugar control

Sea moss may help manage diabetes, control blood sugar levels, and increase insulin sensitivity due to its natural iodine content, magnesium, and alginic acid. Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevents type 2 diabetes, while alginic acid has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.¹⁰

Aids in muscle recovery

The nutrients in sea moss like iodine, potassium, and magnesium, not only aid in building and maintaining healthy muscles but also contribute to maintaining strong bones. A 2018 study of 80 patients with joint and muscle problems showed that sea moss supplements may help with strength, energy, reduced exhaustion, and less pain. The study found that higher protein content in sea moss was linked to better muscle energy recovery.¹¹

Helps to eliminate mucus

Sea moss is believed to be a natural expectorant, meaning that it can help to clear mucus from the respiratory tract and lungs. It helps eliminate mucus due to its high concentration of iodine and other minerals such as potassium and magnesium. These minerals help to break down and dissolve mucus in the body, making it easier for the body to remove it.

Precautions for sea moss lemonade

​​Allergies

Do not consume sea moss lemonade if you are allergic to lemons, honey, penicillin, seaweed, or algae.

Beware of improper sourcing

Over-harvesting can deplete the populations of this valuable resource, so always try and buy from reputable brands that are dedicated to good manufacturing practices.

Some companies may grow sea moss in pools instead of harvesting them from the ocean, which can result in lower quality sea moss that is not packed full of the same nutrients and minerals as the wild-harvested product. 

Seaweed is known to absorb heavy metals, pesticides, and other pollutants from the water where it grows. It’s not toxic in small amounts, but it’s another reason why you don’t want to overconsume sea moss and do your research about where your sea moss is grown. 

Too much iodine

Taking in too much iodine can lead to hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, and can lead to serious health issues. Sea moss is high in iodine, so it’s important to keep your iodine intake within the suggested range per day. In general, ingesting 4 to 8 grams of sea moss per day is considered safe and healthy. 

How much sea moss should I consume? 

The daily intake of sea moss depends on the form it is consumed in. 

Powdered form: 1 to 3 teaspoons. 
Capsule form: 2 to 4 capsules.
Sea moss gel: 1-2 tablespoons.

Remember, you can benefit from sea moss, but a healthy, varied diet is always essential.

Does sea moss lower blood pressure?

When it comes to its impact on blood pressure, we’re still waiting on more scientific studies to fully grasp its influence. What we do know is that sea moss is a rich source of essential nutrients – many of which are ideal for a healthy heart!

It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and trace elements (including potassium, magnesium, and calcium) that play a crucial role in blood pressure regulation. Potassium for example is wonderful at keeping your sodium levels in check, which means it can help promote healthy blood pressure. Magnesium is also important in maintaining blood vessel health and overall heart function.

Sea moss also contains bioactive compounds that have shown anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can lead to heart problems, and reducing inflammation can have a positive impact on your blood pressure.

Does sea moss lower blood sugar?

Sea moss holds some potential for aiding blood sugar regulation, but more research is needed to understand its exact effects fully.

Sea moss does contain dietary fiber, which can slow down the absorption of sugars and potentially help stabilize blood sugar levels. Additionally, some compounds found in sea moss may enhance insulin sensitivity, which could be beneficial for those managing blood sugar.

Sea moss lemonade recipe

5 from 6 votes

Sea Moss Lemonade

Sea moss lemonade is a nutritious and delicious drink that's PACKED with essential vitamins and minerals. This drink is made by combining sea moss, lemon juice, water, and honey to create a refreshing and energizing drink, great for those looking to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Get ready to nourish your body and boost your immune system, skin health, digestion, and heart health!

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Have you tried this recipe? Leave us a review!

Prep Time: 6 hours hrs

Cook Time: 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Calories: 140kcal

Cost: $2

Equipment

• 1 mason jar or blender If making sea moss gel
• 1 2 quart pitcher

Ingredients

• 7-8 cups filtered water
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approx. 4-6 large lemons)
• 1/3 – 3/4 cup (or 6-12 tablespoons) of sea moss gel depending on preferred potency

Instructions

Prepare sea moss gel

• USING DRIED RAW SEA MOSS:
• Soak 1 ounce (or about 29 grams) of dried, raw Irish sea moss in cold filtered water and gently massage it. Ensure that you get rid of any visible dirt and particles before draining the water. Repeat the process one more time.
• Submerge sea moss in filtered or spring water for 6-24 hours at room temperature. Make sure the sea moss is fully submerged and covered.
• Once sea moss has doubled in size, lightens, and becomes gelatinous, drain the hydrated sea moss and transfer it to a blender with 1 cup of filtered or spring water.
• Blend the mixture for 1-3 minutes until it reaches a creamy, thick, custard-like consistency. If needed, you can use up to 2 cups of water total to reach your desired thickness. Keep in mind your mixture will gel in the refrigerator.
• Set ⅓ (or ¾ cup) aside for this lemonade recipe, depending on your desired potency level. Transfer the rest into an airtight container/mason jar and refrigerate the excess until it forms a gel.
• USING SEA MOSS POWDER:
• Take 1/4 cup of dried sea moss powder and mix it with 2 cups of filtered water in an airtight jar.
• Shake the jar to thoroughly mix. Alternatively you can blend it together in a blender.
• Reserve ⅓ or ¾ cup of the mixture (depending on your peferred pfotency) for this recipe and store the remaining mixture in the refrigerator. After 2-6 hours, it forms a gel.

Make the honey syrup

• In a saucepan, mix together 1 cup of filtered water and 1/2 cup of honey. Using raw, unprocessed honey provides added health benefits, although it can slightly change the taste.
• Heat the mixture on the stove over low heat until the honey has dissolved.
• Let it cool for a few minutes, away from any heat source.

Mix ingredients

• Pour 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice into a 2-quart pitcher, then add 5 cups of filtered water.
• Slowly add honey syrup and taste test until you're happy with the sweetness level.
• Finally, stir in ⅓ or ¾ cup of sea moss gel to complete the mixture.
• Garnish with any desired toppings or flavors.

Notes

If your sea moss gel has a thick consistency, consider blending the lemonade for a smooth texture. Store in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavor and texture, though you can also serve over ice immediately.

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keywords: homemade, immune support, lemonade, natural recipe, sea moss, vitality

DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor or health professional. This blog does not provide medical advice and is intended for informational purposes only. If you have a medical condition, always consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Sources 

1. Prebiotic effects of diet supplemented with the cultivated red seaweed Chondrus crispus or with fructo-oligo-saccharide on host immunity, colonic microbiota and gut microbial metabolites (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4535385/)
2. Anti-Photoaging and Potential Skin Health Benefits of Seaweeds (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33809936/)
3. The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Algae-Derived Lipid Extracts on Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-Stimulated Human THP-1 Macrophages (​​https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/13/8/5402) 
4. Iodine Intake and the Pattern of Thyroid Disorders: A Comparative Epidemiological Study of Thyroid Abnormalities in the Elderly in Iceland and in Jutland, Denmark (https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/83/3/765/2865144) 
5. Nutritional and digestive health benefits of seaweed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22054935/) 
6. Anticoagulant, Antioxidant and Antitumor Activities of Heterofucans from the Seaweed Dictyopteris delicatula (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3116195/)  
7. Anti-Obesity Effects of Macroalgae (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7469045/)
8. Fiber-Mediated Nourishment of Gut Microbiota Protects against Diet-Induced Obesity by Restoring IL-22-Mediated Colonic Health (https://www.cell.com/cell-host-microbe/fulltext/S1931-3128(17)30497-3)
9. Antitumor potential of carrageenans from marine red algae (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32747241/) 
10. Magnesium and type 2 diabetes (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4549665/)  
11. Clinical effects of overwintered-stressed Chondrus Crispus and non-overwintered-stressed Chondrus crispus dietary supplementations (https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/AJMS/article/view/20978)