Kelp

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Laminaria, Fucus, Sargassum
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Leaves
Chemicals this herb contains:
Alginic acid
Bromine
Iodine
Potassium
Sodium

KNOWN EFFECTS

Provides bulk for bowel movements.

Miscellaneous information:
Iodine can interfere with normal thyroid function.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats chronic constipation without catharsis. Softens stools. Treats ulcers. Controls obesity.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Are allergic to iodine in any form, particularly if you have had an allergic reaction to injected dye used for X-ray studies of the kidney or other organs.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

None expected