Benefits Of "Kelp"
Benefits Of “Kelp”
|
| Benefits | Studies | Chemical & Nutrient Content |
Growing | Suggestions |
Search this site
 |
| Genus: Fucus Species: F. vesiculosus Also known as: Bladderwrack, black tang, rockweed, bladder Fucus, sea oak, black tany, cutweed, rock wrack Parts used: Stem like and leaf like parts |
 |
| Nature's Way Kelp 660 MG - 100 Capsules |
 |
| Nature's Herbs Sea Kelp 640 MG - 100 Capsules |
 |
| Solaray Kelp 640 MG - 100 Capsules |
Kelp, as a source of iodine, is used as the choice treatment for goiter (enlarged thyroid glands caused by an iodine deficiency).
Iodine is important for thyroid disorders. Iodine feeds the thyroid which controls metabolism. By increasing the metabolic rate it may counter obesity. Thus, kelp has been featured in numerous weight loss products.
Kelp also has a reputation in helping the relief of rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis. Both used internally and as an external application upon inflamed joints.
The chemical constituent of kelp known as “alginic acid” swells up on contact with water; when taken orally, it forms a type of “seal” at the top of the stomach. For this reason it is used in several over the counter preparations for heartburn. The same constituent gives it laxative properties as well.
Other proposed uses of kelp include treating chronic inflammation in the arterial blood vessels (atherosclerosis) and strenghtening immunity. Although there is no scientific evidence, at the present, that it works for these purposes.
STUDIES:
Some animal studies show kelp may also help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. On the other hand, it is also high in sodium, which may raise blood pressure in some people.
Research done on bladderwrack seaweed has shown it to have antibiotic, antioxidant and antibacterial actions.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENT:
Alginic acid, biotin, bromine, calcium, choline, copper, inositol, iodine, PABA, potassium, selenium, sodium, sulfur, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, C, and E.
As with all herbal nutrition supplements, kelp supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription mediciations.
GROWING:
Kelp grows in the cold water off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America. It has a foul odor when fresh, however, baking deodorizes it. Collecting it close to shore is discouraged because it may be contaminated by industrial pollutants. If you use kelp, I suggest buying it from a commercial source.
SUGGESTIONS:
Other herbs containing antibiotic actions include aloe vera, basil, blue cohosh, burdock, chamomile, chaparral, cinnamon, dandelion, ginseng, licorice, meadowsweet, mints, rosemary, and thyme.
KELP
