Laminariaceae
Kelp
Laminaria digitata
⚠ Use with Caution
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: North Atlantic coastlines
Also known as: Oarweed, Tangle, Sea Tangle, Atlantic Kelp
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Whole thallus
Therapeutic Uses
Iodine deficiency, hypothyroidism support, immune stimulation (fucoidan), gut health, cardiovascular protection.
Herbal Actions
Thyroid supportive (iodine), immunomodulator (fucoidan), anticoagulant, prebiotic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral
Active Constituents
Fucoidan (sulfated polysaccharide — immunostimulant, anticoagulant), iodine (variable 1–5mg/g dry), alginic acid (prebiotic), minerals (Ca, Mg, Fe, K), vitamins K and B12
Preparation Methods
💊 CapsulePowder☕ Herbal Tea
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1 tsp dried per 250ml, steep 10 min, 1–2x daily |
| Tincture | Powder: 1–3g daily. Fucoidan standardized: 300–1000mg daily. |
| Notes | Iodine highly variable — standardized capsules preferred. Source from certified clean cold waters. Max 150mcg iodine daily (RDA). |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
⚠ Known interactions
Contraindications: Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's (iodine). Anticoagulants (fucoidan). Heavy metal risk.
Side Effects: Iodine excess (thyroid disruption). Heavy metals. Anticoagulant effects. Safe from clean sources.