MEDICINAL PLANTS

The kelp is a seaweed belonging to the group of brown algae, also called feófitos. The algae, in general, are those plants that live in water or at least in high humidity have chlorophyll and other pigments with which they can survive their most basic needs. They are relatively simple organisms in their structure, but with great complexity and reproductive function. This alga in question is shaped like a flat sheet supported by a long petiole which clings to the rocks by a kind of underwater roots. Can be meters long and grows profusely in the Atlantic underwater rocks.

FLOWERING

The algae bloom lacking since they are very primitive organisms that have hardly evolved in recent millennia. As for the collection, for therapeutic purposes are collected stipules and stems, the latter must be dried quickly in the shade or better in dryer. Once dry, cut into pieces and stored in sealed containers.

APPLICATIONS

This algae is rich in minerals particularly iodine, sodium, potassium, silica and calcium. It also contains a glycoside called laminaria much mucilage, mannitol and various polysaccharides. Finally, there are vitamins A, B, C, D and E. Given its rich composition, has a remineralizing action, vitamin and stimulating the general metabolism by activating the thyroid hormone. It also has some compounds with antibiotic activity and laminarin is Lovastatin. The mucilages that become part of its structure have the typical characteristics of these substances, namely, that swell in the stomach causing a feeling of fullness in the stomach and thus reduce appetite. Also, the mucous coating has a protective activity and gastric anti-ulcer. For all these pharmacological actions is indicated for hypothyroidism, obesity, high cholesterol, hypertension, constipation, peptic ulcer, enterocolitis and atherosclerosis. Externally, the calcium alginate haemostatic action is fast-acting local and is used in epistaxis (nasal bleeding), bleeding, dental and skin ulcerations. Use of this alga is contraindicated in hyperthyroidism, heart disease and dehydration. In addition, this plant has the peculiarity of being able to store heavy metals, so it should only be used pharmaceutical preparations due has passed the health checks, for if we take the algae directly can be toxic if taken in the collection there are high concentrations of heavy metals .

ADMINISTRATION

Decoction. Macerated for 4 hours about 10 gr. The weed in 1 / 10 l. Water. Boil for 5 minutes. The usual dose is one cup before meals.
For external use. The seaweed bath is widely comforting and calcium alginate is widely used as local hemostatic.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Green Algae
HABITAT: Atlantic submarine rocks
FLOWERING: None
PART USED: Stipules and stalks
CASTILIAN: Correa
CATALAN: Laminaria

USES

Strong Laxative, Diuretic Moderate, Stimulates thyroid metabolism Moderate.