The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as historical information only. The historical uses are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.
The seaweed Kelp (Fucus vesiculosis) is an excellent source of minerals from the sea, particularly iodine which is very important for the thyroid gland to function properly. The thyroid gland is an important regulator of metabolism and weight. Kelp is also known by the names Bladderwrack and Seawrack. Kelp is the most common type of seaweed in the ocean. The nickname, Bladderwrack, refers to the bladder like air pods (vesicles) that help keep this herb afloat on the ocean surface. When cows consume kelp, they produce more milk and are less likely to suffer from mastitis. Kelp also makes a wonderful garden fertilizer.
The entire plant (thallus) is considered useful. Kelp is known for the following properties: antibacterial, antioxidant, diuretic, emollient, endocrine tonic, expectorant, and nutritive, and is generally available in the forms of a tea, tincture, or capsules. Historical topical applications have included its use as a compress or oil for arthritic joints, as a bath herb for cellulite and weight loss support, and in lotions for its skin-softening qualities. The hearty herb has also found various culinary uses, being eaten raw or cooked into soups & grains for its salty flavor and for the minerals it provides. Kelp has also been added to beans it improve their digestibility, and used as a seasoning for any food where one wants to add a salty flavor.
The primary known constituents of Kelp include algin, carrageenan, iodine, potassium, bormine, mucopolysaccharides, mannitol, alginic acid, kainic acid, laminine, histamine, zeaxanthin, protein, and Vitamins B-2 & C.
Past cultural studies relating to the result of diet including kelp have determined a link to a lower breast cancer rate; less obesity, heart disease, rheumatism, arthritis; lower blood pressure; less thyroid disease; less constipation and gastro-intestinal ailments and less infectious disease. Kelp provides nutritional support to the nervous system and heart in the form of iodine, vitamins, minerals and cell salts.
Iodine is essential for the proper regulation of energy through its effect on metabolism. Thyroxine, the major thyroid hormone, aids in protein synthesis, carbohydrate absorption and the conversion of carotin to Vitamin A. Kelp not only absorbs iodine from seawater, it also sponges up an enormous supply of essential nutrients and delivers them to the thyroid and the rest of the body. These nutrients include protein, essential fatty acid, carbohydrates, fiber, trace elements, sodium and potassium salts, and a variety of other chemicals, such as alginic acid. Additionally, the trace mineral content of Kelp is among the highest of any known single source.
Iodine in Kelp also helps to maintain a healthy thyroid, thereby significantly reducing one major possible cause of obesity. In addition, seaweed increases the body's ability to burn off fat through exercise. Thus, stamina is boosted, allowing cells to consume energy more efficiently. Kelp has also been shown to support the lowering of blood cholesterol levels.
(This herbal ingredient can be purchased from Viable Herbal Solutions in powdered and capsule form as part of our Single Herb sales program, and in capsule form as part of our Combo Herbs sales programs.)
