The Carrageen

The Carrageen

Every piece of edible carrageen seaweed is meticulously selected and handpicked by us on Barra's beautiful beaches to provide the distinctive flavour of our unique gin.

The carrageen, also known by its scientific name Chondrus Crispus, is a species of red algae native to the cool Atlantic waters skirting Europe’s rocky coastlines, including our beautiful Isle of Barra. Like many of the other seaweed varieties found on the Scottish coast, carrageen is harvested after the spring tides, when the water is furthest from the shore.

The benefits of carrageen were well known to our Scottish ancestors, with records of its use in treating respiratory problems dating back to 1810. Exceptionally rich in nutrients and antioxidants, carrageen is quickly gaining a reputation as a superfood, not unlike kale, blueberries and omega-3s rich fish. It’s high in vitamins A, E, F and K, calcium, potassium and sulphur. It’s also a natural source of iodine – important for healthy thyroids but difficult to find in everyday foods.

And that’s not all. It has also been used as a natural remedy for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, making it a valued ingredient for lotions and moisturisers for many years.

Here’s to your good health.

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Our Story

Our Story

Tales From The Family Distillery (Vol 1)

Tales From The Family Distillery (Vol 1)

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