Sea moss is everywhere on TikTok – yes it’s natural but that doesn’t mean it’s safe or beneficial for all

Using sea moss as a complementary therapy, such as to manage blood sugar or cholesterol, should be done with the support of an accredited practising dietitian and medical professional. Composite: Guardian design/Getty Images

If you have a weak stomach, I don’t recommend watching one of the many videos on social media of influencers dipping their spoons into a jar of sea moss and putting mounds of the congealed substance – with a texture resembling congealed oil or snot – straight into their mouths.

“People have this assumption that it’s disgusting,” one influencer says, holding a spoonful in her mouth and, while seemingly trying not to swallow, insisting: “It’s really not.” Another dry-retches as soon as it passes her lips.