In oriental medicine kelp has been used for centuries to treat diseases of urinary organs, including those of prostate and uterus. Chinese medicine uses it for treatment of cysts and tumors. Since kelp contains iodine, it is necessary in the treatment of goiter and obesity. In folk medicine it is used to treat constipation, bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, ulcers, colitis, reproductive problems of men and women.
One important component of kelp is algin. This fiber consisting of sodium alginate absorbs most of toxic substances from the gastrointestinal tract, lowers cholesterol, so it can be used in treatment of obesity and atherosclerosis. Sodium alginate reduces penetration levels of salts of heavy metals and radionuclides in the body. It also lowes the risk of diseases caused by gastro-intestinal toxins.
Another important component of Kelp - Iodine. It is necessary for normal functioning of endocrine system, preventing development of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
It is believed that thyroxine is related to the level of cholesterol in blood. It increases metabolism and burns extra fat. Therefore it is recommended to take Kelp for obesity and diabetes.