While some moss, specifically sphagnum moss, offers a degree of water purification, drinking moss water directly isn't generally recommended unless it's an emergency survival situation and no other water source or purification method is available.
Sphagnum Moss and Water Purification in Emergencies
Sphagnum moss does possess antiseptic qualities and can filter some impurities. Because of these qualities, it can serve as a better option than untreated water from questionable sources in desperate situations.
- Antiseptic Properties: Sphagnum moss contains compounds that can inhibit the growth of some bacteria.
- Filtration: It can act as a natural filter, removing some particulate matter from the water.
Why It's Not Ideal
Despite the benefits, several factors make drinking moss water a risky proposition:
- Other Pathogens: Sphagnum moss may not remove all harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
- Contamination: The moss itself could be contaminated with pollutants, animal waste, or other harmful substances.
- Species Identification: Not all moss is sphagnum moss, and identifying the correct type is crucial. Other moss species may not have the same purifying properties, or could even be toxic.
- Potential Side Effects: Even with sphagnum moss, drinking untreated water can lead to gastrointestinal distress or more serious illnesses.
Safer Alternatives
Whenever possible, prioritize these safer alternatives:
- Boiling: Boiling water for at least one minute (longer at higher altitudes) kills most harmful microorganisms.
- Water Filters: Portable water filters can remove bacteria, protozoa, and some viruses.
- Water Purification Tablets/Drops: Chemical treatments can disinfect water, although they may not remove all contaminants.
Conclusion
In a survival situation where no other options are available, carefully filtering water through sphagnum moss may be a viable last resort. However, always prioritize boiling, filtering, or chemically treating water whenever possible to minimize the risk of waterborne illness. Drinking untreated moss water should only be considered a desperate measure.
