Kelp. Useful properties, composition, instructions for use of algae. Recipes for face masks, weight loss, body wraps, labor stimulation

Classical kelp grows in the ocean and belongs to the seaweed family. The plant is subsequently dried and used for various purposes and has a large number of useful properties, and contraindications are minimal. It is also a popular dietary supplement that solves many thyroid problems and helps control metabolism.

The composition of the kelp

Laminaria, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which will be considered in the article, contains at least 70 vitamins, enzymes, minerals, trace elements and proteins. Contains vitamins B1, B12, B2, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and iodine.

• Calorie content: 30 g of kelp contains 12 calories, and this is 1% of the daily intake.
• Fats: there is little fat in algae (0.2 g per 30 g). Of this, the amount of saturated fat is 0.1 g. The product contains omega-3 (2.2 mg) and omega-6 (5.6 mg) – heart-friendly fatty acids.
• Vitamins: In kelp there is a sufficient amount of vitamins such as A, B2, B1, B6, B12, folic acid and pantothenic acid. It also provides vegetarians with the necessary levels of vitamin B12. This is an excellent source of vitamin K, providing a person with 23% of the daily intake per serving. Algae also contains a large amount of folate (13% of the daily norm) and vitamin A. Vitamins of group B, in particular, are necessary for cellular metabolism and providing the body with energy. According to the University of California Medical Center, kelp has more calcium than most vegetables, including cabbage and greens. Calcium is important for maintaining strong bones and optimal muscle function.
• Minerals: One serving (30 g) of kelp contains 8.9 mg of potassium, 16.8 mg of calcium and other minerals such as iron, manganese, magnesium, zinc and copper.
• Selenium: This mineral is also present in algae. Selenium acts together with iodine in the regulation of the thyroid hormone. Sodium found in brown algae has a therapeutic effect on the digestive tract and prevents the absorption of cesium, plutonium, mercury and cadmium – all toxic metals. Algin also protects the body from radiation, preventing the absorption of strontium-90 in weapons facilities and nuclear power plants.

In terms of nutrition, kelp is a low-calorie food. It has a high concentration of proteins, vitamins and minerals. It contains low lipid levels and a high content of dietary fiber, especially water-soluble polysaccharides.

It has an inflammatory factor, that is, it has weak anti-inflammatory properties. The estimated glycemic load is 0, which means that it does not control blood sugar.

Algae is the only source of natural plant-based vitamin D.

It contains chlorophyll and chelated minerals. Sodium alginate, located in kelp, relieves the body of heavy metals and other toxic radioactive elements.

Useful properties of kelp

Laminaria (useful properties and contraindications are discussed below) has many advantages.

Some of them:

1. Studies show that there is a strong link between kelp use and cancer prevention. Algae has many beneficial compounds that prevent lung and prostate cancer. These beneficial substances not only slow down the development of cancer cells, but also prevent the spread of tumors in the chest and colon. There is strong evidence that frequent use of algae reduces ovarian and mammary gland cancer, so Japanese women rarely suffer from these forms of cancer. Since kelp is a rich source of vitamin C, it reduces damage to the body caused by free radicals. Moreover, it also contains fucoidan, which induces apoptosis in cancer cells. In simple words, the consumption of algae destroys cancer cells.
2. Maintains a pH balance: kelp is an alkaline food. This means that its inclusion in the diet is a natural way to maintain a good acid-base balance in the body. It is good for digestion and most processes in the body.
3. Increases bone density: algae contain many important minerals, including copper, boron, calcium, zinc and manganese. People who have weak or damaged bones can benefit from this gift of nature, as it contains all the beneficial substances needed to improve bone health. If a person has just recovered from an injury, he should definitely include kelp in his diet to speed recovery. The product also prevents the symptoms of diseases caused by insufficient minerals and osteoporosis.
4. Seaweed is rich in iodine , and therefore kelp extract can be used instead of salt, as it is tasty and has no side effects.
5. A mineral called fucoidan has been discovered in kelp that fights several different types of blood disorders, including blood pressure. It is also useful in preventing ischemic diseases.

Contraindications

1. Conditions / diseases in which the use of products with a high iodine content is contraindicated;
2. Pregnancy and lactation;
3. Hypersensitivity to the components of dietary supplements.

Possible harm to kelp

Great care should be taken when purchasing and consuming kelp. You must always know the country of manufacture of the product used. Most ocean waters are polluted, and this can lead to high levels of arsenic and mercury in algae.

Usually kelp collected in the waters of Canada, Hawaii, Iceland and the Northwest of the United States is considered safe for consumption. These waters are protected, relatively free from contamination and practically untouched.

The continuous use of algae must not be allowed. A 2 week break should be given after consuming the product for a week.

This will prevent an overdose of iodine, which can cause thyroid problems. It is always worth consulting a doctor before consuming a particular marine product.

Consumption rates

• Adults – allowed to add to food tablespoon of dry kelp powder per day or 1 capsule of dietary supplement.

  

• Children – add 1 small spoonful of brown algae dry powder per day to food.

The benefits of kelp for men

1. Good source of protein. Since kelp contains more than 15 different amino acids, it is extremely useful for increasing the am
   ount of protein in the male body. It not only regulates cell growth, but also heals wounds and helps in muscle development.
2. The marine product strengthens the immune system, nourishing it with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. If a man suffers from any lack of minerals or vitamins, this is a nutritious way to improve immunity.

For women

1. Women’s health benefits are due to the high content of alginic acid. Laminaria consists of about 60% of this polysaccharide. It works like pectin, which is found in vegetables, berries and fruits.
2. Often, women suffer from painful symptoms of menstruation or PMS. Using kelp, you can put an end to constant fatigue, anemia and cramps during this period.
3. Brown seaweed has a great advantage for girls seeking to lose weight. Thanks to fucoxanthin, the plant helps to reduce weight, and its effect is maximized when used with other products, such as pomegranate oil.

For children

• Laminaria provides beneficial properties to the children’s body. There are more than 21 varieties of edible seaweed. Most suitable for children and without contraindications for them are nori, wakame, laver and dals. Nori is an excellent choice for children, as the product is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, as well as iodine. It is also an excellent protein source. Dals will be a good choice for babies, as this algae has a high content of protein, iron, magnesium and beta carotene.
• Seaweed is a rich source of vitamin K , which is a fat-soluble nutrient. It binds to plaques that form blood clots. Children often fall, injuring delicate skin. Vitamin K is very useful, as it helps in sending a chemical signal that causes platelets to form a blood clot. When this happens, blood coagulates faster.
• Laminaria is a rich source of calcium . This nutrient helps keep teeth and bones strong. Calcium helps in contracting muscles and maintaining the function of the nervous system. It is also a great helper in cellular communication.
• Children are active all day and need energy. Algae contains a lot of iron, which helps their organisms produce energy for everyday activities. They also nourish the circulatory system to improve blood flow in the tissues.
• Seaweed is rich in fiber. This is an important nutrient for children, as it helps in regulating bowel movements and prevents constipation.
• Brown algae have antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. This helps in preventing various types of infections and allergies. They benefit baby skin and also prevent inflammation and itching.

Other benefits of seaweed:

• Improves memory .
• Promotes good vision .
• Improves the immune system functioning of the thyroid gland system.
• Provides healthy skin

Laminaria during pregnancy and lactation

It is advisable to avoid algae during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In some Asian countries, such as Korea, Japan, and parts of China, seaweed is used to increase breast milk.

But at the moment, studies show that algae have a very high iodine content, which is hundreds of times higher than the daily recommended intake. If they are used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, this can adversely affect the health of the fetus, that is, in his body there will be large deposits of iodine. This is very risky and can cause hypothyroidism.

How to use thallus dry kelp

Laminaria in thalli is most often nori. This product is most common among seaweed. They can be crispy or vice versa soft, slightly salty, with fried, smoked or nutty notes. High-quality nori kelp – the texture is smooth and uniform, dark green.

Avoid buying spotty, crumbly, pale green or reddish algae.

They must be stored in sealed packaging, and if the plans do not consume algae for about 2 weeks, you need to pack the product well and place it in the freezer, where it will retain its freshness for about 6 months.

Nori can be added to any dishes, for example, wrap an omelet with spinach and avocado in the thallus of kelp , you get an excellent nutritious breakfast. As an appetizer, you can use a toasted nori leaf seasoned with sesame oil and sprinkled with a pinch of salt. Cut the sheet into equal pieces, add boiled rice, kimchi or a fried egg.

Dry Kelp Powder

Organic powder from kelp is an excellent source of iodine, a trace element that is necessary for the healthy functioning of organs.

• Taste and Use

The salty taste of kelp can be described as “umami”, which in Japanese means “pleasant spicy taste”. It is best to consume 1 small spoonfuls per day, added to any dish. Kelp powder goes well with healthy cocktails, used as salad dressing or topping. You must add the product to soups, stews or hot side dishes.

• Health Benefits of Powder

1. An excellent source of iodine: organic algae powder is saturated with iodine. It is necessary for the production of hormones that help the body use energy efficiently, and is also necessary for brain development. Consuming iodine-rich foods promotes an accelerated metabolism and supports cognitive function. Lack of iodine leads to fatigue, cold limbs, weight gain, as well as in severe cases, damage to the brain or goiter of the thyroid gland.
2. Laminaria contains fibrous compounds that absorb toxins and heavy metals in the digestive tract. This prevents the reabsorption of toxins in the bloodstream.
3. Brown algae organic powder is also a rich source of calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium. Calcium and magnesium work together to help strengthen and maintain bones. Iron helps cells get rich in oxygen, and potassium regulates blood sugar and blood pressure.

Dried Kelp Pills

Laminaria in tablets is a food supplement used as an additional source of iodine and alginates (soluble dietary fiber). Laminaria is produced in the form of capsules 530 mg (100 pieces in bottles).

The active substance is part of the capsules: brown algae powder.

Most often it is used:

• For gaining muscle mass or losing weight.
• Like a mild laxative.
• For the prevention of cancer.
• Against hypothyroidism.

Dosage and administration:

• Laminaria is taken orally, preferably with meals. Recommended dosage for adults: 3 times a day, 1 capsule.
• Course duration – 1 month.
• If necessary, after 2-3 months the course can be repeated.

The use of kelp in cosmetology

Laminaria (useful properties and contraindications depend on the type of algae) contains at least 60 different minerals and elements, as well as 12 vitamins and 21 amino acids.

An impressive list of nutrients found in brown algae, not only improves the human body, but also improves the appearance.

• A large number of body lotions, care methods and bath products contain kelp. It gives the skin elasticity.
• In anti-cellulite creams, algae draw impurities from the skin and “tighten” the skin. This firming ability is also an advantage in eyeliner patches or wrinkle creams. Masked seaweed heals, hydrates, detoxifies and re-mineralizes the skin.

Kelp-based face masks

1. Exfoliating mask

You will need :

• ? tablespoon of kelp powder;
• ? tablespoon of chlorella;
• 1 large tablespoons of natural yogurt or 1 large tablespoons of gel with aloe vera;
• 2 small spoons of olive oil;
• 1 drop of essential oil. (It is better to use rose, jasmine, geranium, sandalwood, chamomile, carrot, lemon, lavender or frankincense oil).

Cooking :

• Add the essential oil to the powder of kelp and chlorella, mix thoroughly until a homogeneous consistency. Then add yogurt / aloe vera gel and oil to the mixture.
• Apply to the face and neck in a circular motion to create a soft exfoliation effect. Wait 15 minutes and rinse with warm water, then apply a moisturizer.
• When using yogurt, the mask is stored in the refrigerator for about a week. When using fresh aloe – about two days in the refrigerator. The oil-based mask lasts longer – about a few weeks.

2. Anti-aging mask

You will need :

• 1 small tablespoons of liquid honey (use not pasteurized);
• 1/2 large spoonfuls of kelp powder;
• 1/4 tablespoon of kaolin clay;
• 10-12 drops of tea tree essential oil;
• 1/4 small spoons of rosehip oil or sea buckthorn;
• 1/4 tablespoon of aloe vera gel;

Cooking :

• Mix brown algae powder and clay in a 8,45 fluid ounce container.
• Add essential oils and mix thoroughly. Then mix honey, aloe vera and mix again until smooth.
• Apply to wet skin for 15-20 minutes. Wash off the mask with warm water using a damp sponge.

Scrubs

ingredients :

• ? tablespoon of almond flour;
• ? cups of bentonite clay;
• ? tablespoon of ground oats;
• ? tablespoon of brown algae powder;
• essential oils as desired;

Cooking :

• Use a coffee grinder or blender to chop almonds and oats. Oats may contain coarser particles.
• Mix all the ingredients and store in the refrigerator. Scrub can be applied to the skin 2-3 times a week.

Hair masks

1. Mask for hair growth

You will need :

• 3,38 fluid ounce olive oil
• 5,07 fluid ounce hair conditioner
• 1 large spoonful of dry kelp powder

Cooking :

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Apply to damp, clean hair. Leave the mask on for 15-30 minutes. Rinse hair well.

2. Mask against dandruff

• 3 tablespoon of brown algae powder;
• 3 large tablespoons of clay russul;
• 10 drops of lemongrass essential oil;

Cooking :

• Mix all the ingredients and add a little water to achieve a uniform consistency.
• Distribute on wet hair.
• Leave the mask for 40 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Laminaria for weight loss

Seaweed is rich in vitamins and minerals, completely in kind. This nourishing base guarantees optimal body function. For example, if digestion is impaired, losing weight will be much more difficult.

Laminaria, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which are known to many, is one of the best natural sources of iodine. Iodine supports thyroid health, so the metabolism will improve and function better – which is what is needed for healthy weight loss.

Excess weight puts a strain on the thyroid gland, and insufficient iodine in the body and daily diet leads to weight gain. Laminaria is best suited in this case, since with proper use, the amount of iodine necessary for the correct operation will come into the body.

Brown algae also contains alginate – a substance that promotes weight loss. And doctors are currently looking for ways to add this component to certain weight loss products. Laminaria does not immediately tidy up the body, but it is a very effective way.

The marine product is also rich in fucoidans. These are molecules found exclusively in algae. They support the immune system and cell function. All these substances are actively us
ed in the markets – as an additive in synthetic substances that promise to instantly lose a few extra pounds.

Laminaria in sticks to stimulate labor

Another kind of kelp is thin sticks of sterilized algae, about the size of a match. The sticks are inserted into the cervix. There they expand slightly in a humid environment, stretching the cervix. After the procedure, the next day the cervix reaches its maximum dilatation.

Laminaria sticks can expand the cervix overnight. In the early stages of pregnancy, the drug is not required, but if the woman is already in position for more than 5 months, you should regularly use laminar sticks for a safer and more painless birth.

Most women feel mild cramping after administering kelp. If the cramps do not stop, you can drink light painkillers.

Laminaria for colds

Laminaria can be used as an addition to the main treatment for colds. It has weak anti-inflammatory properties, so it can only help in the first stage of infection.

It is necessary to use dry kelp 2-3 times a day before meals or after, preferably in the evening.

For the treatment of atherosclerosis

Thanks to fucoidan found in brown algae, the product acts as an antioxidant.

This prevents dangerous oxidative damage, since oxidative cholesterol settles in the arteries, which can lead to atherosclerosis, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and hypercholesterolemia.

With bronchitis

With bronchitis, it is preferable to use fresh seaweed. Species such as nori and huntsman will be useful here. 250 g of fresh seaweed should be consumed per day. The course lasts 2 months, it is necessary to repeat after 3 months.

With osteochondrosis and gout

In this case, the use of fresh brown algae is optimal. You need to buy marine products called dals and chlorophyte. Mix these two ingredients, and include in the diet, consuming 2 times a day. The course lasts 2 months, you can repeat in 6 months.

With diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

For gastrointestinal diseases, dry kelp is indicated for use:

• Adults (from 12 years) – 3 tablespoon of dry algae per day, with meals.
• Children (under 12 years old) – 2 small spoons of dry algae per day, with meals.

The course is 3 months, repeated in a month.

In oncology

There is evidence that the consumption of seaweed helps to increase the effectiveness of cancer treatment. But this product does not completely cure cancer. However, it improves the overall result in combination with treatment.

Laminaria should be included in the diet for the prevention of cancer, leukemia and radiation sickness . It contains biologically active substances and trace elements that are used to prevent the disease.

Lutein, p-carotene and chlorophyll have an antimutagenic effect on the human body, since they contain alginic acid. This acid selectively binds and eliminates heavy metal ions from the human body.

This affects the hematopoietic systems and the intestinal tract system, which are especially vulnerable due to radionuclides. This study has been scientifically proven by American, Japanese and Norwegian researchers.

For thyroid treatment

Typically, the thyroid gland secretes hormones such as T3 and T4. For these hormones to work properly, there should be enough iodine in the body to regulate. If iodine is not enough, the hormonal glands will deteriorate and problems like hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s disease will develop.

Laminaria is an excellent solution as an alternative treatment for the thyroid gland. It should be taken dry, daily, 1 large spoonfuls with the main treatment.

With iron deficiency anemia

Most people diagnosed with anemia have iron deficiency, including vitamin B-12 deficiency, also known as pernicious anemia. Seaweed is a natural, not animal source of vitamin B-12 and contains high amounts of iron.

Antitumor collection

The following types of seaweed are included in the antitumor collection:

• Boa.
• Kombu.
• Alaria.
• Wakame.
• Tongvid.
• Chlorophyte.
• Arama.
• Eclonia.
• Macrocytis.
• Huntsman.

These products can be consumed both in dry and in regular form.

Application:

• Fresh kelp: buy the above types of algae, mix with each other, and include in the diet in an amount of 200-250 g.
• Dry kelp: as an option, to dry a fresh product, since it will be very difficult to find them in a dry form, consume 3 tablespoon daily 2 times a day.

Algal mud

Algal mud is sold in pharmacies and care stores. Especially effective masks with healing mud. Below is a recipe for one of them:

Ingredients:

• 1 small tablespoons of olive oil;
• 300 g of algal mud;
• 1 egg yolk.

Application:

Mix all the ingredients and apply the mixture on the face. Leave the mask on for 20-25 minutes, then rinse off.

Kelp Baths

Baths with kelp are very useful for health, because it contains many useful components, consider the benefits:

• Detoxification of the body.
• Losing w
  eight.
• Slag removal.
• Mineralization and softening of the skin.
• Relieving muscle pain.

1. A bath with ginger

Ingredients:

• 2 small spoons of hydrogen peroxide.
• 3 tablespoon of ground ginger
• ? cups of dry kelp

Cooking:

Add all components to a hot bath and sit for 20 minutes, then rinse the body.

2. Clay bath

Ingredients:

• ? cups of bentonite clay
• cups of dried seaweed
• Essential oil to choose from: mandarin, rose, cinnamon.

Cooking:

• First you need to dissolve the salt in hot water.
• Then there are 2 options: mix clay and algae and add to the water, stirring until all the lumps are dissolved, or make a paste, adding a little water and distributing it throughout the body. In this case, the paste must be applied in advance and allowed to dry for 5 minutes.
• Immerse yourself in the bath and sit for 20 minutes.
• The effect is wonderful – rejuvenation and skin tightening are noticeable after the first application.

Compresses with kelp

Compresses with kelp are most often done with a cold. Here, the most suitable product is nori kelp.

The recipe is as follows:

Ingredients:

• 300 g dry kelp;
• warming cream;
• 1 small spoonfuls of coconut oil;

Cooking:

Mix the components, apply to gauze and apply to the inflamed area. Keep no more than 40 minutes. The procedure is done 3 times a day.

How to choose and store kelp

To distinguish and choose seaweed, you need to pay attention to the labels.

The most preferred and having more health benefits packaging will have the following Latin names:

• bladderwrack (fucus),
• nori (classical kelp)
• Irish moss (sometimes designated as carrageenan, extract name)
• SuperPhycoDismutase (or SPD, French seaweed extract name) or just an algae extract.

These products have practically no contraindications. Most of these sea herbs give a silky texture to creams and act as natural thickeners.

Posted by: AngelinaA

Video about the benefits of kelp

Elena Malysheva will talk about the benefits of kelp: