Though it is commonly called seaweed, the official name for this algae is kelp. Kelp may be found in kelp forests, in shallow, clear parts of the ocean. The water needs to be below 68 degrees F. Kelp multiples and spreads easily, growing 20 inches or more in a single day, and at times reaching over 200 feet long!

In most kelp, the body or thallus consists of flat or leaf-like structures known as blades. Blades come from elongated stem-like structures called stipes. A root-like structure, called the holdfast, anchors the kelp to the floor of the ocean. In American species gas-filled bladders form at the base of blades, and keep the kelp blades close to the surface, holding up the leaves by the gas in them.

Kelp is available in a dried, capsule, or powder form. It can be added to drinks or used as flavoring or as a salt substitute. Kelp can be added to soups, stir fries, stews, and cooked with beans or various types of grains.

Kelp contains over 70 enzymes, proteins, vitamins, minerals, growth hormones, and trace elements. These include calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and especially iodine. Wikipedia reports that 100 grams of kelp contains .6 grams of sugars, .6 grams of fat, 1.3 grams of fiber, 1.7 grams off protein, 9.6 grams of carbohydrates, and anywhere from 3% to 45% of the daily minimum requirements for 13 other minerals and vitamins.

Kelp is not only plentiful but it is also healthy. Kelp suppresses AIDS, helps to fight heart disease, and boosts the immune system. It increases body energy, helps to fight cancer, improves the function of the liver, and reduces arthritic pain.

Because kelp stimulates metabolism, it is used to control appetite and can help keep weight normal. The iodine in kelp helps treat hypothyroid problems. It also is used to alleviate problems of poor digestion, bowel gas, and constipation.

Kelp helps maintain mucous membranes and to lower cholesterol levels. It kills herpes virus and even helps to reduce hair loss. The ash of kelp is used in glass production and making soap. Alginate, which is a carbohydrate which comes from kelp, is an effective thickener used in making ice cream, salad dressing, toothpaste, and jelly. Kelp is even used as one ingredient in exotic dog food.

Vraic is a fertilizer made from kelp. In the far east, some types of kelp are considered delicacies.

You will help keep your body regulated by daily ingesting a small amount of kelp in powder or capsule form. This will provide you with needed vitamins and minerals and may ward off health problems you never knew you would have faced.