Kelp - Composition, Useful Properties And Contraindications

2024 Author: Josephine Shorter | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-17 02:10

Useful properties of kelp

Kelp, which is known as seaweed, is a treasure trove of vitamins. People have been eating these algae for a long time, using them as fertilizer. There was a use for kelp in medicine.

Algae are actively used in cosmetology. They not only improve skin condition and fight wrinkles, but also help to cope with cellulite.

Kelp can be seen in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans on cobblestones and rocks. This alga is capable of forming its thickets at a depth of 10–35 meters.

Content:

• Description and composition of kelp
• Useful properties of kelp
• Contraindications to the use of kelp
• Application of kelp
• Kelp masks for face and body

Description and composition of kelp

Kelp (brown algae) have a thallus body and roots called rhizodes. With their help, the plant is attached to surfaces. The thallus can reach 12 meters in length, it is smooth or wavy. Laminaria grows very actively on the seabed. The average depth at which algae begin to grow is 10 m. Sometimes they settle deeper.

Laminaria contains at least 70 vitamins, minerals, enzymes and proteins. It contains B vitamins, magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron and iodine.

• Fats: 0.6 g
• Proteins: 1.6 g
• Carbohydrates: 9.6 g
• Water: 81.6 g
• Ash: 6.6 g
• Cellulose: 1.3 g

Vitamins (per 100 g):	amount	% RDA
Vitamin K	66 μg	55%
Vitamin B9 (folic acid)	180 mcg	45%
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)	1 μg	33.3%
Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol)	2.4 μg (96 IU)	sixteen%
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)	0.64 mg	12.8%
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)	150-320 mg	11.8%

Minerals (in 100 g):	amount	% RDA
Iodine	2500-3600 mcg	2033.3%
Boron	225-400 mcg	464.4%
Bromine	3400-13000 mcg	410%
Vanadium	85-160 mcg	306.3%
Silicon	51 mg	170%
Cobalt	15 mcg	150%
* Arsenic	7-15 mcg	91.7%
* Strontium	200-700 mcg	56.3%
Chlorine	1056 mg	45.9%
Magnesium	121-126 mg	30.9%
* Cadmium	1.4 μg	28%
Sodium	233-312 mg	21%
Iron	2.85-3.30 mg	20.5%
Lithium	7.7-31.4 mcg	19.6%
Calcium	168-220 mg	17.6%
Sulfur	134 mg	13.4%
Copper	130 mcg	13%
Zinc	1230 mcg	10.3%

Other important connections:

• Phytosterols - 6.62-23.2 mg (27.1% of the RDI)
• Purines - 5 mg (5% of the RDI)
• Oxalic acid - 1.5 mg (0.4% of the RDI)

The University of California Medical Center analyzed kelp. Scientists have found that seaweed contains more calcium than greens and cabbage.

• Minerals. 30 g of kelp contains 220 mg of calcium. Brown algae are a source of iodine.
• Sterols. These substances thin the blood, prevent the formation of blood clots, and prevent cholesterol from being deposited in the vessels.
• Polysaccharides. Their entry into the body makes it possible to normalize metabolic processes, stabilize blood sugar levels, and regulate the water-salt balance. Laminaria polysaccharides prevent blood clots from forming.
• Niacin. This substance, contained in kelp, makes the skin healthy, radiant, and helps to get rid of age spots.
• Algin. It protects the body from the effects of radiation.

Only algae contains natural vitamin D - 2.4 μg (16% of the RDI).

Complete chemical composition ➤

Useful properties of kelp

Kelp is useful to eat, as it has many healing properties, including:

• Saturation of the body with vitamins.
• Loss of excess weight.
• Prevention of diseases of the thyroid and parathyroid glands.
• Correction of metabolic processes in the body.
• Prevention of constipation.
• Normalization of sexual function.
• Relief from depression and stress.
• Prevention of diabetes mellitus.
• Prevention of diseases of cardiovascular pathologies, in particular, hypertension and atherosclerosis.
• Bringing blood cholesterol levels back to normal.
• Treatment of joint diseases. Kelp is useful for people suffering from gout and arthritis.
• Prevention of osteoporosis.
• Prevention of diffuse toxic goiter.
• Improving visual acuity.
• Increased immunity.

• Treatment of skin diseases, improvement of the condition of the mucous membranes.

It has been proven that the regular use of kelp brings benefits to the human body.

It must be included in the diet, as it has the following properties:

• Increasing the strength of blood vessels. This is possible due to iodine salts. They ensure the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Consumption of kelp can improve the health of the cardiovascular system as a whole.
• Reducing blood cholesterol levels and eliminating it from the body.
• Getting rid of the body from heavy metal salts and radionuclides.
• Blood pressure normalization. This is due to the stable operation of the cardiovascular system.
• Improving the functioning of the digestive system.
• Burning body fat. This is possible thanks to fucoxanthins, which convert fat into energy.
• Increasing the body's own defenses. This effect is provided by the abundance of nutrients in kelp.
• Improvement of the thyroid gland, stabilization of the hormonal background.
• Tissue regeneration. Any wounds will heal faster if you consume kelp. This is due to the presence of alginic acid in it.
• Moisturizing the skin, increasing its elasticity.
• Reducing tissue swelling.
• Improving visual acuity. This is possible due to the fact that algae are rich in iodine salts and beta-carotene.

Contraindications to the use of kelp

Laminaria is contraindicated in people who suffer from iodine allergy. There is a lot of this element in seaweed. An allergic reaction is manifested by a rash on the skin.

There is no data on the ban on the use of kelp in food by pregnant and lactating women. However, expectant mothers need to be careful to include it in their menu.

Laminaria is contraindicated in people with diseases such as:

• Kidney inflammation.
• Acne and furunculosis.
• Hemorrhagic diathesis.
• Chronic pyoderma.
• Multinodular goiter of the thyroid gland, hyperthyroidism.
• Bowel obstruction.

Video: about the benefits of kelp in the program "Live Healthy!":

Application of kelp

Laminaria is a universal product. Seaweed is used with equal success in medical practice, in cooking and cosmetology. Nutritionists appreciate it for its ability to burn fat.

Algae should be stored in a dry and dark place. If these conditions are met, it will not lose its value within 1-3 years.

Application in dietetics

Dry fresh kelp contains 6-8 kcal, and pickled - 47 kcal. Low calorie content, combined with a rich mineral and vitamin composition, makes sea kale a valuable food for people who are trying to lose weight.

Thanks to the use of seaweed, it is possible to quickly get rid of the feeling of hunger, as well as to fill the body's need for dietary fiber.

Nutritionists value kelp for its ability to boost metabolism. The inclusion of seaweed in the menu allows you to quickly bring metabolic processes back to normal.

Application in traditional medicine

In folk medicine, kelp is actively used to combat various diseases. Decoctions and infusions are prepared from it, which help to cope with respiratory tract infections.

An infusion based on dried kelp helps fight bronchitis. To prepare it, you need 2 teaspoons of dry seaweed. They are poured with 2 cups of boiling water and left for an hour. Then the infusion is filtered and inhaled with it. The duration of one procedure is 5 minutes. The result can be assessed after 10 sessions.

Kelp is useful for the brain and central nervous system. Eating it helps to cope with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Application in cosmetology

Laminaria helps to rejuvenate the skin of the face and body, removes age spots, fights wrinkles and acne. Cosmetologists often call seaweed "sea ginseng".

The use of cosmetics containing kelp can achieve the following results:

• Get rid of dry skin and flaking. The body receives vitamins of group B, vitamin PP and selenium from kelp. He lacks these substances in ordinary life.
• Shrink pores, normalize skin oiliness, get rid of acne.
• Getting rid of fine mimic wrinkles. Laminaria saturates the body with Omega-3 and vitamin E, which has a positive effect on the condition of the skin.
• Elimination of age spots. They become less visible. This is possible thanks to zinc, vitamin C, PP and E. All of them are found in sufficient quantities in kelp.
• Strengthening hair follicles.
• Reducing the rate of growth of scar tissue, making scars less visible.

In cosmetology, algae are used as follows:

• Laminaria is used to wrap the whole body and its problem areas.
• Face masks are made with kelp.
• Kelp is used for hair care.

Whole kelp thallus or algae powder (micronized algae) is used to perform the wraps. The wrapping procedure can be hot or cold. It all depends on what goal the person pursues.

Hot wrap allows you to reduce weight, make your waist thinner, slimmer hips. This procedure is indicated for obese people. Under the influence of warm algae, the pores open, the body is cleansed of harmful substances.

To carry out a hot wrap, the seaweed should be soaked in warm water, but its temperature should not exceed 60 ° C. If you pour boiling water over the algae, they will lose their medicinal properties.

Cold wrap allows you to improve your skin, make it more toned, get rid of cellulite. The procedure is indicated for people with varicose veins, as it reduces pain.

To perform a cold wrap, you must soak the kelp in room temperature water. Algae withstand in it for an hour, after which they begin a cosmetic session.

Modern cosmetology invites women to perform contrasting wraps. They involve alternately applying hot and cold algae to the skin. This allows you to qualitatively work out the problem area of the body or face.

Kelp masks for face and body

Wet kelp is called live algae. The plant is represented in wide layers. They are used immediately, without pre-soaking.

Dry kelp is sold in powder form. It has the same properties as wet kelp. However, the powder lasts longer. It can be mixed with other ingredients.

Kelp is commercially available in the form of dry beds. They are crushed before use, or they are gently soaked and used whole.

To make a preparation, a tablespoon of chopped kelp needs to be poured with a glass of still mineral water.

For a full body wrap, you will need about 150 g of dry kelp powder.

• The poured powder is left for an hour. During this time, it will absorb water and increase in size.
• The swollen mass is spread on cheesecloth and squeezed out.
• It is applied to the face or body. You can use the resulting composition as a scrub, mask or shampoo.
• The finished mass can be stored for several days. Keep it in a cool place.

Video: how to make a kelp face mask:

To make the kelp easily lay on your face, you must first grind it in a coffee grinder to a powder state!

Seaweed and yolk wrap

A mask with algae and yolk helps to get rid of cellulite, improve skin condition, make stretch marks less noticeable, and reduce pigmentation.

Composition:

• Laminaria powder: 3-4 tbsp. l.
• Egg yolk - 1 pc.
• Camphor essential oil - 10 drops.
• Lemon essential oil - 10 drops.

Breeding method:

• The powder is poured with hot water and insisted for half an hour.
• Egg yolk is mixed with essential oils.
• All components are connected, a mask is applied to problem areas and wrapped with cling film.
• The product is kept on the skin for 40 minutes.

Laminaria and white clay

A mask with kelp and white clay helps to cope with swelling and blackheads. It cleanses the skin, rejuvenates it. During the procedure, blood flow to the site of application increases.

A mask with algae and clay should be done for people with problematic and aging skin. It is applied to the eye area and other sensitive areas. She acts softly. Therefore, it is used 3 times a week.

Composition:

• Powdered algae - 2 tsp
• White clay - 2 tsp
• Sodium alginate - 3 tsp

Breeding method:

• Clay and algae are soaked in advance. To each of these components, add 30 ml of water and mix thoroughly.
• Sodium alginate is diluted in 50 ml of water. Soak it before applying it to the skin.
• The mask is applied to the area around the eyes, lips and neck.
• Maintain the composition on the skin for 20 minutes.
• The mask is removed by the type of film.

Laminaria is often mixed with clay. This improves the effectiveness of cosmetic procedures. Blue clay is used to combat cellulite and obesity, and white clay is used to improve skin tone.

Laminaria and honey

A single application of a honey and kelp-based mask is enough to even out skin tone and moisturize it.

Composition:

• Kelp - 1 tbsp. l.
• Liquid honey - 15 ml.
• Starch - 25 g.
• Olive oil - 5 ml.

Breeding method:

• All components must be connected to each other and heated in a water bath.
• Leave the heated mass in a warm place to infuse.

The mask is prepared a few days before use. During this time, kelp will fully give up its medicinal properties.

Apply the mask to clean skin.

With lemon juice and vitamin E

You need to use the mask every 3 days. They allow you to quickly refresh the skin, cleanse and moisturize it. Regular use of the mask allows you to make pigmentation less noticeable, get rid of fine wrinkles and saturate the dermis with vitamins.

Composition:

• Laminaria powder - 2 tsp
• Vitamin E and lemon juice - 5 drops.
• Boiled water - 3 tsp.

Breeding method:

• Laminaria is soaked in water and left for half an hour.
• For dry skin, vitamin E is added to the resulting mixture. It can be purchased in capsules. For oily skin, add lemon juice to the algae.
• Apply the mask to the face, but without affecting the skin around the eyes. After 20 minutes, it is removed.

Anti-wrinkle mask

The proposed mask recipe is perfect for people with oily skin, enlarged pores and oily shine. Its regular use allows you to increase the elasticity of the dermis, renew its cells.

Composition:

• Laminaria powder - 1 tbsp. l.
• Applesauce - 1 tbsp l.

Breeding method:

• The seaweed is soaked in hot water and left to swell for 5 minutes.
• The prepared seaweed puree is mixed with applesauce and applied to the skin.
• Leave the mask on the face for 15 minutes.

The result from applying such a mask will be noticeable immediately. The skin is tightened, wrinkles become less visible. Applesauce can help get rid of the oily sheen. The skin is evened out and looks healthy.

To eliminate acne

This mask is great for skin prone to breakouts and irritation. It tones, moisturizes and cleanses. The mask helps prevent the appearance of acne and cope with existing breakouts.

Composition:

• Laminaria powder - 1 tbsp. l.
• Honey - 1 tbsp. l.
• Aloe pulp - 1 tbsp l.

Breeding method:

• Laminaria is soaked in water.
• Honey is mixed with aloe and ready-made kelp.
• Apply the mask to the face and leave for 30 minutes.

Anti-cellulite body wrap with vinegar

Laminaria in combination with vinegar is excellent for cellulite. The effect is enhanced by rosemary oil. The skin looks healthy, stretch marks are reduced, edema subsides.

Composition:

• Dry algae - 50 g.
• Rosemary oil - 10 drops.
• Grape or apple cider vinegar - 1 tbsp l.
• Olive oil - 1 tbsp l.

Breeding method:

• Laminaria is poured with a glass of hot water and left to swell.
• When it is ready, it is mixed with other ingredients.
• An elastic bandage is moistened in the resulting solution and wrapped around problem areas of the body.
• Insulate the place where the mask is applied with cling film and a woolen scarf.
• Leave the composition on the skin for half an hour, after which they take a shower.

The problem area should be wrapped tightly so that air does not enter the skin. If this condition is not met, the kelp will dry out quickly.

Exfoliating body scrub

The skin is cleansed with ground coffee or sea salt, which is included in the scrub. Algae help to heal her and get rid of cellulite.

Composition:

• Powdered seaweed.
• Coffee grounds - 1 tbsp. l.
• Olive oil - 50 ml.

All components must be mixed and applied to the skin.

Revitalizing hair mask

Soaked kelp is mixed with burdock oil in the amount of 2 tbsp. l. The resulting mixture is rubbed into the scalp, wrapped in a towel and left for an hour.

The mask is washed off with plain water, without the use of shampoo. If the hair remains oily sheen, then you can wash it with shampoo, but not earlier than 3-4 hours after using the kelp. This will allow the active components of algae and burdock oil to penetrate deeper into the hair structure.

The author of the article: Sokolova Nina Vladimirovna | Phytotherapist

Education: Diploma in "General Medicine" and "Therapy" received at the Pirogov University (2005 and 2006). Advanced training at the Department of Phytotherapy at the Peoples' Friendship University of Moscow (2008).