This episode, we explore seaweed bathing, Ireland’s only indigenous bathing tradition, and how this edible sea vegetable has played a role far beyond the bathtub.

We trace seaweed’s slippery history from an essential crop on the emerald isle, to it falling out of favor with the arrival of the potato, to its vogue as a vitamin rich tonic in Edwardian seaweed baths. We also speak with edible seaweed evangelist Dr. Prannie Rhatigan about her mission to bring the versatile sea vegetable back to Irish plates. Finally, we wrap up with a look at the bizarre Victorian seaweed scrapbooking craze.