Properties: Diuretic, emollient, nutritive, source of iodine.

Part Used: All the plant.

Historical Uses:
Kelp is a sea-plant, rich in iodine salts, that has been used in traditional medicine to treat obesity and hypothyroidism.

Kelp can be put to the same uses as Bladderwrack; however, Kelp differs in containing more iodine salts.
It is therefore more aggressive in its support of thyroid function, and people should go a little slower in becoming adjusted to its stimulating effects.
Iodine salts are known to be an essential element to feed the thyroid gland and ensure its proper functioning.

Kelp has also been employed in the treatment of goiter (enlarged thyroid gland at base of neck).

It is said to be an excellent mineral and trace element source. It increases the metabolism of the body to burn calories more rapidly.

Kelp is also highly valued as a diuretic if excess fluid buildup.

Contraindications: Kelp should be avoided in cases of hyperthyroidism or sensitivity to iodine.

Adverse reactions: If nervousness results, reduce the amount, as the thyroid is being stimulated too much. This condition corrects itself within a few hours.

Dosage:
10 to 40 drops or more as needed, three times per day starting slowly and increasing gradually.