Tuesday, August 19, 2025 - 00:30

Traditional Uses of Kelp

Kelp has been used for centuries in traditional East Asian medicine, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea, for its nutritional and medicinal properties.
It has been traditionally consumed as food, used as a flavoring agent, and incorporated into soups, salads, and other dishes.
In traditional medicine, kelp has been used to support thyroid health, improve digestion, promote hair growth, and enhance overall vitality.

What is Kelp?

Kelp is a large, brown seaweed that grows in underwater forests along rocky coastlines in cold, nutrient-rich ocean waters. It has long, ribbon-like fronds and air bladders that help it float toward the water's surface to capture sunlight for photosynthesis.
Most Kelp species belong to the order Laminariales. These include species such as Saccharina japonica and Laminaria digitata.

Primary Compounds in Kelp

Iodine: Kelp is one of the richest natural sources of iodine, a vital mineral for thyroid health.
Fucoxanthin: This carotenoid is responsible for the brown color of kelp and possesses antioxidant properties.
Fucoidan: A sulfated polysaccharide found in kelp, fucoidan has various biological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Nitrate: Inorganic versions of this compound found in kelp have been shown to reduce blood pressure.

Health Benefits of Kelp

A Rich Source of Nutrients

Kelp is highly nutritious, containing essential vitamins and minerals such as iodine, calcium, potassium, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and K. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Significant Iodine Content

Kelp is particularly notable for its high iodine content, which is essential for thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones. Adequate iodine intake is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism and preventing thyroid disorders.

Antioxidant Properties

Kelp contains various antioxidants, including fucoxanthin, which helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support healthy aging.

Supports Weight Management

Fucoxanthin, a compound found in kelp, has been studied for its potential role in promoting weight loss and reducing abdominal fat accumulation. It may also help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Supports Heart Health

Some studies suggest that components of kelp, such as fucoidan and omega-3 fatty acids, may have cardioprotective effects, including reducing cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, and preventing blood clot formation.

Blood Sugar

Studies have found that kelp promotes healthy blood sugar levels. This means helping to regulate insulin levels and balance blood glucose.

Cognition

Kelp species have also been found to help promote cognitive abilities.

How to Use Kelp

Kelp is available fresh or frozen, but it can be hard to find unless you live in an area where it’s grown or harvested. Most consumers eat dried kelp or kelp noodles. Kelp is sometimes marketed under the Japanese name, kombu. Here are some ways you can use kelp:

  • Use kelp to flavor miso soup broth, called dashi
  • Use kelp flakes to give vegetarian salads the taste of the sea 
  • Combine kelp noodles with shredded vegetables to make a salad
  • Make pad thai using kelp noodles instead of traditional noodles
  • Make kombu salad by mixing: water, dried kelp carrots, cucumbers, and flavoring
  • Use kelp flakes or powder to add umami to dried beans