Kelp 4:1

History:

Kelp is a common name for leafy algae or seaweed - a nutritious "vegetable of the sea" - and it is harvested off the coasts of many of the oceans of the world. Kelp carries all the positive qualities of the sea and the numerous, rich elements that the oceans produce. Among its many uses for mankind, nutrition is one of them, and it was usually used as a source of iodine or salt. It is an important part of the diet in Japan, Norway and Scotland; and for vegans (vegetarians who eat no animal products), nutritious Kelp supplies vitamin B-12, which is normally found only in animal products). The term Kelp is used to describe a number of brownish-green species, prepared from several species of Fucus and Laminariae, etc. (including Macrocystis pyrifera, Laminaria digitata and Ascophyllum nodosum, etc.), and they may grow from a few feet to over one hundred feet in length, sometimes growing as much as two feet in one day. They generally grow in enormous beds just below the surface of the water and do not have any roots. Rather, they cling to rocks with "holdfasts" (grippers), which are hardy enough to withstand fierce storms. The entire plant is used in herbal preparations. Kelp is particularly rich in iodine and was the original source of iodine, being discovered by Courtois in 1812. It is interesting to note, however, that earlier, in 1750, an English physician, Doctor Russell, burned dried Kelp and used it for thyroid health; and in 1862, a Doctor Dupare employed Kelp as a dietary supplement, two uses that dependend upon Kelp's iodine content. Iodine does not appear in nature in uncombined form but is distributed in the form of iodides and iodates, which are found in sodium and potassium in seawater, some seaweeds and mineral springs. The iodine in Kelp was extracted by "kelp burning" and distilling, which remained viable until the twentieth century when newer, cheaper methods of extraction were employed. Chemical constituents in Kelp include iodine, bromine, alginic acid, sodium and potassium salts, magnesium, calcium, iron, protein, alginates (soluble dietary fiber), mannitol, essential fatty acids, silicon, nitrogen, phosphorus, cellulosics, selenium, zinc, boron, laminarin, vanadium, molybdenum, beryllium, B-vitamins and vitamin C. The trace mineral content of Kelp is among the highest of any single known source.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) to three (3) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Those suffering from hyperthyroidism or have heart problems should not use Kelp Herbal Supplement. Those with high blood pressure or blood vessel disease should not use this product without first consulting a physician. Pregnant and nursing women should never take Kelp; the Laminaria genus is a uterine stimulant and can dilate the cervix and induce abortion. Kelp should not be taken in large doses (many times the recommended amount), as it may increase pulse rate, cause tremors, acne, elevated blood pressure, hyperthyroidism and counterproductive thyroid function (ironically, there have been reports of an occasional side effect called "iodine goiter" associated with iodine that results in an enlargement of the thyroid gland resembling goiter, and if you experience this, discontinue using iodine, and consult your health care practitioner. Do not take Kelp without talking to your doctor first if you are taking thyroid hormone medicine - examples: levothyroxine (Synthroid®, Levothroid®), desiccated thyroid (Armour® Thyroid). Rare problems with blood (such as low platelets or bleeding) and low blood pressure have been reported with the use of Kelp; speak with your doctor if you are taking blood thinning medication.

Capsule Information:
Our Kelp 4:1 supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules.(click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.

Special Note:
If any medical terms on our website are confusing or unknown, we have compiled a small dictionary of terms for you. Click here for our Definitions, and go directly to the word in question for further information.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Herbal Extracts Plus is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.