HF Spa Diaries

Chilling on Irish moss

Celebrity trends often catch on quickly so it’s no surprise that spa barista’s have started infusing smoothies with sea moss—a species of red algae found in ocean waters. Fruit is added to help mask the not so charming oceanic, musty smell. In gummie form or as a spoonful once or twice a day moss is said to have benefits ranging from weight loss to horniness.

Irish moss is on the salad menu in Hawaii and in agar, a gelatin substitute used in Filipino cooking and vegan desserts. It’s also touted as an aphrodisiac in a special-occasion beverage in the Caribbean. 

Heads up because consuming too much sea moss gel could increase the risk of iodine toxicity particularly surrounding pregnancy and breastfeeding and, as oceans are heavily polluted, watch out for the high levels of mercury, lead, and cadmium, along with industrial chemicals found in algae.”

Long COVID recovery on Ischia

Italy’s Regina Isabella resort, once a favourite of Liz Taylor and Richard Burton, has recently expanded its thermal spa program to include inflammation reducing treatments that target persistent long COVID symptoms. Utilizing a team of medical professionals, the program combines the use of the healing waters to promote the production of cytokines and with a well-rounded regimen of stress, diet and gastrointestinal interventions. 

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