Preparing raw sea moss is simple once you know the basic process.
Our Purple Mix Sea Moss from Tanzania is sold raw and naturally sun-dried, so it should be thoroughly rinsed and soaked before blending.
The basic process is:
Rinse → Soak → Blend → Refrigerate
Step 1: Inspect the Raw Sea Moss
Before rinsing, take a look at the sea moss.
Raw sea moss is a natural ocean product, so every piece will not look exactly the same.
You may notice different shades of purple, brown, tan and lighter natural colors.
The texture, thickness and shape can also vary.
You may also see natural salt or small traces of ocean debris from its growing environment.
Step 2: Rinse Thoroughly
Place the raw sea moss under clean running water and rinse it thoroughly.
Move the sea moss around with your hands so water reaches between the branches and folds.
Repeat the rinsing several times until you are satisfied that the natural salt and debris have been removed.
Do not skip this step.
Raw sea moss comes directly from a saltwater environment and should always be properly cleaned before preparation.
Step 3: Soak the Sea Moss
After rinsing, place the sea moss in a clean container and cover it with fresh water.
Allow it to soak until it becomes softer and expands.
The sea moss will absorb water as it soaks.
You may add fresh lemon or lime to the soaking water if desired.
Step 4: Check the Texture
As the sea moss absorbs water, it becomes softer and more flexible.
Once it has softened sufficiently for blending, it is ready for the next step.
Because sea moss is a natural product, the exact appearance and texture can vary from batch to batch.
Step 5: Blend Into Sea Moss Gel
Place the soaked sea moss into a blender.
Add clean water gradually.
Blend until the mixture becomes smooth.
The amount of water you use determines the consistency.
Less water creates a thicker gel.
More water creates a thinner gel.
Starting with less water and adding more gradually gives you greater control.
Step 6: Refrigerate the Gel
Transfer your finished sea moss gel into clean containers and refrigerate it.
Only prepare as much gel as you expect to use while it is fresh.
Keep the remaining raw dried sea moss properly sealed until you are ready to prepare another batch.
What Should Raw Sea Moss Smell Like?
Raw sea moss can have a noticeable ocean or fishy smell when the package is first opened.
That is not unusual for a raw product harvested from the sea.
Thorough rinsing and soaking help remove much of the natural ocean smell before blending.
Is the Salt Added?
Our sea moss comes from salt water.
Natural salt can remain on the surface after the sea moss has been harvested and dried.
That is another reason we recommend rinsing the sea moss thoroughly before soaking.
Do You Have to Boil Raw Sea Moss?
Our preparation method does not require boiling.
We recommend thoroughly rinsing the raw sea moss, soaking it until softened and then blending it with clean water.
Can I Add Lemon or Lime?
Yes.
Fresh lemon or lime can be added to the soaking water if desired.
Some customers prefer this as part of their preparation process.
How Much Gel Can 4 oz of Raw Sea Moss Make?
A 4 oz bag can make several jars of sea moss gel.
The exact amount depends on how much water you use and how thick or thin you prefer your finished gel.
This is one advantage of starting with raw sea moss: you control the final consistency and quantity.
Raw Sea Moss or Prepared Gel?
Preparing raw sea moss takes a little more time than buying a ready-made gel, but it gives you control over the entire process.
You can see the sea moss before preparation, rinse it yourself and decide exactly what goes into the finished gel.
For a full comparison, read our Raw Sea Moss vs Sea Moss Gel guide.
Where Does Our Raw Sea Moss Come From?
Our Purple Mix Sea Moss comes from the coastal waters of Tanzania, East Africa.
It is:
Ocean-Grown
Hand-Harvested
Naturally Sun-Dried
Never Pool-Grown
You can learn more on our Raw Sea Moss From Tanzania page.
Ready To Prepare Your Own Sea Moss?
Start with raw Purple Mix Sea Moss and make your gel the way you want it.
Available sizes include:
4 oz • 1 lb • 3 lbs • 5 lbs • 10 lbs • 25 lbs • 50 lbs