Kelp, (Phaeophyceae), is a type of large brown seaweed that belongs to the Algae family. Kelp is also known as Brown Algae and is from the order Laminariales. There are many different species of Kelp, each adapted to specific environmental conditions and geographic regions.

Kelp species vary in size, shape, color and ecological preferences, reflecting the diverse range of habitats they inhabit around the world.

Kelp is not a Plant!

Despite its appearance, Kelp is not a plant in the traditional sense. While kelp shares some similarities with plants, such as its photosynthetic ability and multicellular structure, it lacks the specialized tissues and structures found in true plants. Kelp is a type of large brown algae that belongs to the group of protists known as stramenopiles.

Unlike terrestrial plants, which have roots, stems, and leaves, kelp anchors itself to the seafloor using a structure called a holdfast, which functions similarly to roots but lacks vascular tissues. The main body of the kelp, known as the stipe, resembles a stem and provides structural support for the large, leaf-like blades that extend upwards into the water column to capture sunlight for photosynthesis.

Additionally, kelp reproduces differently from plants. While plants typically produce seeds for reproduction, kelp releases spores into the water, which develop into new individuals under suitable conditions.

Overall, while kelp shares some similarities with plants, it is classified as algae rather than a true plant. It is an essential component of marine ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various marine organisms and contributing to coastal biodiversity.

Stramenopiles and Protists Explained

A stramenopile, also known as stramenoproph, is a diverse group of organisms belonging to the Kingdom Chromista. Stramenopiles are characterized by the presence of a unique flagellum that has fine, hair-like projections called “strands” or “hairs,” which give the group its name.

Protists are a diverse group of eukaryotic microorganisms that do not fit into the categories of plants, animals, or fungi. They are primarily unicellular but can also be colonial or multicellular. Protists exhibit a wide range of morphological, ecological, and metabolic diversity, making them difficult to classify under a single taxonomic group.

Different Species of Kelp

Below are just a few examples of Kelp species. Many other species of kelp exist worldwide, each playing unique roles in their respective marine ecosystems. Some of the most common species of kelp include:

Giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera): Found in temperate coastal regions, giant kelp is one of the largest species of kelp and forms dense underwater forests.

Bull kelp (Nereocystis luetkeana): Native to the Pacific coast of North America, bull kelp has a distinctive bulbous float at the end of its stipe and forms long, flexible fronds.

Feather boa kelp (Egregia menziesii): Also known as sea palm, feather boa kelp is found along the Pacific coast of North America and has cylindrical fronds resembling a feather boa.

Saccate kelp (Laminaria saccharina): Commonly found in colder waters of the Northern Hemisphere, saccate kelp has long, ribbon-like blades and forms dense underwater canopies.

Bladder kelp (Macrocystis integrifolia): Similar to giant kelp but smaller in size, bladder kelp is found in the North Pacific Ocean and has gas-filled bladders along its fronds.

Kelp in the Ocean

Kelp comes from under the sea. It is, essentially, seaweed that thrives on sunlight and takes in the host of nutrients and minerals present in the water around it. Kelp is commonly found in underwater kelp forests along rocky coastlines in cold and nutrient-rich ocean waters around the world. These dense underwater forests, known as kelp forests, provide habitat and food for a diverse array of marine life.

Kelp is known for its long, leaf-like blades that can grow to considerable lengths. One genus of kelp commonly found in cold, nutrient-rich ocean waters is Macrocystis. Macrocystis species, also known as giant kelp, are among the largest and fastest-growing seaweeds in the world.

Kelp, particularly species within the genus Macrocystis, can grow remarkably quickly under optimal conditions. In ideal environments with ample sunlight, cool temperatures, and nutrient-rich waters, kelp can grow at rates of up to 1-2 feet (30-60 centimeters) per day. This rapid growth allows some kelp species to reach impressive lengths within a relatively short period.

The maximum length that kelp can attain varies depending on species and environmental conditions. Some species of kelp, such as Macrocystis pyrifera (giant kelp), have been known to grow to lengths exceeding 100 feet (30 meters) under favorable conditions. However, factors such as water depth, wave action, competition for resources, and environmental disturbances can influence the growth and longevity of kelp populations.

In general, the lifespan of individual kelp blades or fronds is relatively short, typically lasting several months to a year, depending on environmental factors and seasonal changes. However, the entire kelp plant can persist for several years, with new growth continuously replacing older parts.

Kelp serves as an essential component of marine ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various marine organisms, including fish, invertebrates and mammals. It also plays a vital role in ocean biodiversity and ecosystem health. Furthermore, kelp is increasingly recognized for its potential environmental benefits, such as its ability to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and mitigate ocean acidification.

Health Benefits of Kelp

In addition to its ecological significance, kelp has been utilized by humans for centuries, particularly in Asian cultures, as a source of food and for its potential medicinal properties. It is rich in nutrients such as; iodine, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin K. This makes Kelp an interesting supplement for those seeking to adopt a healthier lifestyle, indeed Kelp is believed to have many benefits and serves a multitude of purposes.

Kelp for Regulating Thyroid and Pituitary Function

Kelp is the number one herb for supplementing Iodine. And being that it is a natural source of iodine it is considered to be safer and better for the body than chemical synthetics. Superstars like Vitamin C, Iron and Calcium are always in the news and well-known for their health benefits, while iodine has been essentially ignored. But we need iodine for efficient thyroid and pituitary function.

The thyroid, located in the area of the throat, is responsible for regulating metabolism and body temperature. We know that a strong metabolism is important for weight control, and so it is important for those seeking to maintain a healthy weight, or those hoping to lose a few pounds, to add kelp to the list of things that we know are beneficial to weight management: drinking lots of water, exercising on most days and incorporating a low-fat, low-calorie diet.

Diuretic Effect of Kelp

And adding kelp to that list will help in other ways too. As a natural diuretic, kelp is good for those troubled by water weight. Diuretics clean out the system and assist in shedding water and the toxins in the system.

Kelp for Nails and Hair Growth

Kelp has been used for decades for strengthening nails. Some like to use kelp to hasten the build-up of the nail bed especially after the removal of acrylic nails, when the natural nail bed is seriously damaged.

To support nail regeneration, kelp should be taken orally along with an aggressive regimen of topical protein applied to the nails. Kelp is also used to stimulate hair growth as it helps to grow the hair stronger and thicker. It is because of Kelp’s support of the pituitary gland and the thyroid that makes it the superhero of supplements for nail and hair health.

Kelp as an Antibiotic

Kelp is more than capable as an adequate daily women’s vitamin because it is packed with other necessary nutrients such as Iron, Calcium and Potassium. Since these are lost during monthly cycles, pregnancy, or lactation, women should especially take note of all the things that Kelp has to offer.

Because it has a natural antibiotic synthesized into it, Kelp assists the body in fighting off infection, so it is especially helpful during cold and flu season, or for those who are susceptible to sinus congestion due to allergies or who have a lowered immune system. The Magnesium and Iron in Kelp is beneficial to a healthy bloodstream as it creates a friendly environment for the growth of red blood cells. This gives us energy and helps to maintain homeostasis.

Kelp as a Source of Iodine

Many people are avoiding Sodium in their diets, and for good reason. Sodium is harmful in a variety of ways as it is associated with heart disease and water-weight gain. But when salt first became available for seasoning food right at the table, manufacturers added Iodine as a health benefit.

For years, Kelp stayed hidden in the closet while people got their necessary Iodine from table salt. But now that salt is being avoided, Iodine is not as readily available and so Kelp is becoming more and more favored as a healthy source of Iodine. Vegetarians, and especially vegans who are avoiding dairy and animal products, should be taking Kelp since, as healthy as these diets are, they are lacking in certain necessary minerals and nutrients.

Consumption of Kelp

Kelp is often consumed in various forms including dried, powdered, tablets, or as an ingredient in soups, salads and sushi. Kelp can be found in seaweed products offered in health food stores for making salads, soups and other recipes calling for dark, leafy greens, as well as being available as a leafy green veg in most supermarkets. Kelp can also be made into a tea.

Other Uses of Kelp

In addition to its culinary and medical uses, kelp is used in various industrial applications, such as in the production of alginates (thickening agents), fertilizers, animal feed supplements and cosmetics. These seaweeds play a crucial role in marine ecosystems and are valued for their ecological importance as well as potential commercial and industrial applications.

Always take care when taking herbs and Read Our Disclaimer.

Kelp Notes / Side Effects

While kelp is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, excessive intake or prolonged use of kelp supplements may lead to potential side effects due to its high iodine content and other compounds.

Here are some possible side effects associated with taking kelp:

Iodine Overdose: Kelp is a rich source of iodine, and excessive iodine intake can lead to thyroid dysfunction, including hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Symptoms of iodine overdose may include thyroid enlargement (goiter), weight changes, palpitations, fatigue, and other thyroid-related issues.

Heavy Metal Contamination: Kelp, especially those harvested from polluted waters, may contain heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, and lead. Prolonged consumption of kelp contaminated with heavy metals can lead to toxicity and adverse health effects.

High Sodium Content: Some kelp supplements may have a high sodium content, which could be problematic for individuals with hypertension (high blood pressure) or those following a low-sodium diet.

Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to components present in kelp supplements, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Digestive Issues: Excessive intake of kelp supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, particularly in sensitive individuals.

Interaction with Medications: Kelp supplements may interact with certain medications, including thyroid medications, blood thinners, and medications for hypertension. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking kelp supplements, especially if you are on medication or have pre-existing health conditions.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use caution when consuming kelp supplements due to their iodine content. Excessive iodine intake during pregnancy and lactation may adversely affect fetal and infant thyroid function.

It’s crucial to consume kelp supplements in moderation and adhere to recommended dosage guidelines. If you experience any adverse effects or have concerns about taking kelp supplements, consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.