Sea kale is commonly called kelp, and there are about 30 species. Only cabbage leaves are considered edible. They contain many useful vitamins, and if you consume seaweed for at least a week, a person’s well-being and health will noticeably improve.
Initially, seaweed was harvested from the sea. But then, in order to protect the environment, we had to abandon this method of extraction. And now seaweed is grown on special plantations in Korea, Japan and China, artificially formed at the bottom of the sea. The stones are dipped in water so that they form a layer of soil on top of which the spores are dropped. Sometimes to form such a plantation there are rocks, the fragments of which become new soil for kelp.
Sea kale extraction process
In some areas, seaweed is still collected from the sea. For example, kelp is mined in the White Sea (near the Solovetsky Islands). People who prepare seaweed are called dergali. For work they use a special device - a dredge. It is used to cut off the seaweed growing at the bottom. Also, recently the Dergals have been using another tool - the cabea, which looks like a three-pronged fork. Using this device, cabbage is collected by twisting it onto a fork, like pasta.
This work is very hard, so only strong men are engaged in harvesting kelp. In good, clear weather, workers go out to sea twice a day to collect herbs. On average, a working day can last 15-18 hours. All this time they ride around on carabasses and collect grass from the bottom.
The next day, when the cabbage is dry, cut off the roots and remove dry algae. Drying seaweed is a rather problematic process, since collective farms usually do not have special equipment; seaweed is dried on hangers. And in rainy weather, kelp production decreases sharply.
After drying, the seaweed is sorted. The best ones are sold to various beauty salons for body wraps. That’s how cabbage is used there – whole, unprocessed leaves. The French are also very interested in Solovetsky sea kale due to the presence of a unique amount of polysarides in it.
Low-grade kelp is used for the needs of the food industry. Most often you can find them in a tin labeled “Seaweed Salad.”
Laminaria, or as it is also called - seaweed, is very useful. Both adults and children love her. Today we will talk about what it consists of, what its benefits are, why it is harmful and, of course, we will find out how seaweed grows.
Chemical composition of kelp
It depends on the temperature of the water where the algae lives, on its illumination and salinity. The composition of the healthy beauty will also depend on how it was prepared. Simple seaweed is low in calories. It contains only five calories per hundred grams of product. It contains 0.2 grams of fat and 0.9 grams of protein.
Cabbage is enriched with vitamin A, vitamins B1, B2, B6, B9, PP. It is rich in ascorbic acid and contains macroelements such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium. Among the trace elements it contains iron and manganese. The first component is iodine. It contains the largest amount. That is why seaweed is recommended for people suffering from thyroid diseases. You're probably wondering how sea kale grows. More on this a little later, but now let's find out who first tasted these algae.
Useful properties of kelp
Sea kale is loved by the people of China. Initially they used it as a medicine, but after some time they realized that kelp fits perfectly into recipes for preparing a variety of dishes.
As already mentioned, the main advantage of cabbage is iodine. Moreover, it is completely absorbed by the body. This product is ideal for Russia, because it is in this country that most people suffer due to a lack of this component in the body. Iodine deficiency occurs in the North Caucasus, the Urals and the Middle Volga region. Where does sea kale grow in Russia?
Laminaria habitats
There are about thirty species of kelp. Of these, two are the most common. This is palmate and Japanese. In what sea does seaweed grow? The first is mined in our northern seas - the White, Barents and Kara. Japanese kelp lives in the Far East along the shores of the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. How does seaweed grow in these places? It consists of brown and greenish algae. We can say that it is similar to dense forests, only under water. Laminaria spreads over distances from three to forty meters.
Where is kelp used?
This brown algae is widely used in industry, in medicines and even as a fertilizer. Some people eat seaweed with great pleasure. It is characterized by special taste qualities that are formed due to the habitats of the algae. Where does seaweed grow? And it grows off the coast of seas and oceans. It has a variety of shapes and lengths. Some algae can be only a few centimeters long, while some can be up to twenty meters or more. Kelp is inexpensive because it is accessible and easy to obtain. Look at the photo of how seaweed grows.
It grows at a depth of 5 to 10 meters, but there have been cases when kelp was taken from greater depths - up to 40 meters. It is attached to the bottom with a disc-shaped sole or with the help of rhizoids.
What determines the type of algae?
It depends on how seaweed grows and where it lives. As already mentioned, Japanese kelp lives in the Far East in the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. Sugary algae can be found in the Kara and White Seas. A huge amount of seaweed is harvested, but, despite the industrial scale, it does not end there. Laminaria is very tenacious.
How does seaweed end up on the shelves of stores and pharmacies?
Laminaria is obtained in two ways:
- With the help of divers and special equipment, algae is extracted from the depths of the seas and oceans.
- They are collected from the shores after a storm washes seaweed ashore. But it should be remembered that it is suitable for production only if it has lain for no more than two days.
Laminaria is collected, washed in sea water, thereby clearing it of sand, and dried. Drying must be correct, because only then will the algae retain all its beneficial properties. Sometimes seaweed is frozen. In this form, it can be stored for six months, but it will retain only part of its beneficial properties.
Laminaria is used not only for food purposes, but also cosmetics and medicines are made from it.
How is seaweed good for women?
For ladies losing weight, this is just a godsend. As already mentioned, kelp is not only low-calorie, but also very beneficial for the body. It is used as wraps to combat cellulite, strengthen hair and rejuvenate the face.
Women who eat seaweed are less likely to suffer from infertility and breast cancer. Kelp contains a huge amount of folic acid, so pregnant mothers and those on the way to it, seaweed is a must.
What are the benefits for men?
It is useful for the stronger sex in all ways that it is for other people. In addition, kelp increases potency and libido, which has a beneficial effect on family life.
Is there any harm from eating seaweed?
You should not overuse it, as an excess can harm the body. Manifestations such as nervous excitability, nausea, and depression may appear. You should avoid eating kelp if you suffer from the following ailments:
- Hives.
- Kidney and liver diseases.
- Diathesis.
- Tuberculosis.
Difference between kelp and spirulina
Some people confuse these two algae, but there really is a difference between them. They have different shapes and sizes. Sea kale is much larger. They are both used for food, but, according to scientists, spirulina has more beneficial properties and has no contraindications.
The article told us how seaweed grows, whether it is worth eating, and how it is harvested. There is a lot to think about, and taste dishes based on seaweed, too.
It is difficult to overestimate the importance seaweed in nutrition. Man has been eating kelp since time immemorial. The first dishes from seaweed were prepared simply - the plant was boiled in water or broth and eaten immediately. Or dried and eaten within a few days. Sea kale salad is widely known. It is easy to prepare, can be stored for a long time, and contains a rich set of chemical elements necessary for the body. The availability, ease of obtaining and impressive beneficial properties of seaweed have provided it with excellent export opportunities. Currently, it can be found in any stores around the world. Even in canned form, it does not lose its medicinal and preventive properties. It is not expensive, so almost everyone can afford it.
Chemical composition kelp looks impressive. The algae contains iodine (iodine itself was discovered in it in 1811), manganese, bromine, zinc, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and a dozen other chemical elements, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and polysaccharides. Carbohydrates - 60%, proteins - 13%, fats - 2%. Sea kale holds the lead among all food products in terms of the presence of iodine and sodium, potassium and magnesium. It is especially useful for children (although they are not particularly fond of it). Laminaria is the main prevention of thyroid diseases (but for people with hypersensitivity to iodine, seaweed is contraindicated!). It increases the tone of the body, inhibits the development of vascular sclerosis, reduces the risk of developing blood clots, normalizes digestive and metabolic processes, and improves the immune system. Sea kale is a powerful aphrodisiac and is recommended to be consumed for sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
Laminaria has also been used in cosmetology. It is included in some cosmetics, infusions and ointments. Seaweed wrapping is also practiced, which has a general rejuvenating effect on the body. Used as a hair strengthening agent. In medicine, algae is used as an ingredient in iodine-containing preparations aimed at preventing atherosclerosis and goiter.
Laminaria grows everywhere in temperate and cold waters. Japan holds the leadership in the extraction and processing of algae. For residents of the Land of the Rising Sun, seaweed is a favorite basis for a huge number of dishes. It is used in the preparation of soups, meat dishes, salads, etc. Every year the Japanese eat several tens of thousands of tons of seaweed. This partly explains why there are so few scrofulous diseases and goiters and such a high life expectancy.
In Russia, seaweed is harvested in the northern and Far Eastern waters by mowing or dredging (using trawls), and algae washed ashore are also collected. Before the outbreak of World War I, Russia purchased iodine from Germany. But with hostilities, supplies from the enemy state were suspended, and the need for iodine, as a good disinfectant, only increased. Therefore, the first algae processing plants were built in the Far East and Arkhangelsk.
The most useful is considered to be seaweed obtained in cold northern waters. It retains more iodine and other beneficial substances. The seaweed processing process is still manual. Laminaria raised from the bottom of the sea is dried naturally, in the fresh air. Various “dryers” only harm the plant. Most of the resulting cabbage is canned right on site, this is how it best preserves its quality and does not deteriorate during transportation.
Many recipes for weight loss contain recommendations for eating seaweed.
Similar advice, but with the aim of maintaining general health and preventing diseases, is contained in ancient treatises on Feng Shui.
It is especially recommended for use by people of the Earth element.
Calorie content and BZHU
Sea kale, or kelp (Latin Laminaria, translated as strip, plate) is aquatic plant, which is classified as a genus of brown seaweed. It consists of thin (0.5 m) brown plates with a smooth or rough, solid or dissected surface. The length of kelp can be up to 20 m. It is perennial. Some species reach the age of 11-18 years. The genus of kelp algae has about 30 species. 
Many people do not like seaweed because of its slippery consistency and unpleasant strong odor. However, those who prefer healthy eating, are ready to endure these nuances, since this product is famous for its exceptional usefulness.
To understand how seaweed is beneficial for men, women and children, we first suggest you familiarize yourself with its calorie content. It amounts to 43-49 kcal per 100 g of raw product. In a dried product, the number of calories increases to 476 kcal. Pickled kelp contains 61 kcal. Due to such a low calorie content, this product is included in various diets.
Did you know? To burn 50 kcal, you will need to walk for 12 minutes, jog for 6 minutes, swim for 4 minutes, bike for 8 minutes, do aerobics for 10 minutes, and do housework for 16 minutes.
As for the content and ratio of , and , in 100 g of product the level of protein is 9.6 g or 2% of the daily requirement required by a person, fat - 0.6 g (1%), carbohydrates - 3 g (3%).
Vitamin and mineral composition
To describe what is contained in seaweed, you will need more than one page of text, so many elements are included in its vitamin and mineral composition. Let's try to name only the most valuable for a person. 
So, in kelp there are such minerals:
- - 233 mg (17.9% of the human daily requirement);
- - 168 mg (16.8%);
- - 121 mg (30.3%);
- - 89 mg (1.9%);
- - 42 mg (6%);
- Fe (iron) - 2.9 mg (28.5%);
- - 1.2 mg (11.2%);
- - 0.7 mcg (1.3%);
- - 0.2 mg (8.7%);
- Cu (copper) - 0.1 mg (14.4%).
Did you know? Sea kale contains 40 times more sodium than cabbage. It is also known to contain 16 times more iron, 11 times more magnesium and twice as much phosphorus.
Laminaria is of particular value due to its high iodine content, which helps normalize cellular metabolism and normalize the activity of the thyroid gland and the endocrine system as a whole. Also among the constituent components of the algae there is fucoidan, which affects strengthening the immune system.
It is important to know what vitamins are contained in seaweed. Her vitamin composition as follows:
- - 6 mcg (0.7% of the human daily value);
- beta-carotene - 70 mcg (1.4%);
- - 0.1 mg (4.2%);
- - 0.2 mg (11.5%);
- - 0.5 mg (2.9%);
- - 12.8 mg (2.6%);
- - 0.6 mg (12.8%);
- - 180 mcg (45%);
- - 3 mg (3.3%);
- - 0.9 mg (6%);
- - 66 mcg (55%).
What are the benefits of seaweed for the body?
Knowing what is inside the kelp, you can predict what effect it will have when it enters the body. Thus, the content of vitamins A, C and E indicates that the product is capable of...
Important! Sea kale should be purchased only from trusted, reputable manufacturers, since it is capable of absorbing harmful substances from the water in which it grows. It is important that it is not mined in areas with unfavorable environmental conditions.
Men
Men will be primarily interested in seaweed because it activates blood circulation in the genitals and thus increases potency and improves sexual health.
Statistics show that, for example, Asian men, who consume kelp more often and more, are much less likely to suffer from problems with the reproductive system and prostate cancer than Europeans, on whose tables this product is present in much smaller quantities. Laminaria is also considered to be a product that increases sexual desire. Moreover, its effect applies to both men and women.
In general, it is recommended to eat kelp to prevent the development of endemic goiter, rheumatism, hyperthyroidism, and cancerous tumors. Its effect is well manifested in constipation and enterocolitis. It is very important in the nutrition of the elderly and children.
How often can you eat seaweed?
Laminaria, if there are no contraindications, can be consumed daily in small portions. It is advisable not to go beyond two teaspoons of dry product or 250 g per week. If a person suffers from any chronic disease, then before deciding to introduce algae into the daily diet, you should consult your doctor.
Is it possible to eat on a diet?
Laminaria is included in mono-diets used for losing weight. After all, its composition is so rich that a person can live for several days eating exclusively this algae.
If you follow other diets, you should understand that this seafood product contains a high salt content. Therefore, it will be necessary to adjust the dose of salt consumed.
If a person resorts to dietary nutrition due to some disease, then the question of the possibility of consuming brown algae should be discussed with the attending physician.
Is sea kale suitable for pregnant and nursing mothers?
But pregnant and nursing mothers should eat it with caution, since doctors do not have a general opinion whether this product can or cannot be used during such critical periods. Iodine penetrates the placenta in large quantities and can provoke the development of abnormalities in the fetus. It also passes into breast milk, and therefore into the baby’s body. 
At what age can children
Pediatricians advise introducing seaweed into a child’s diet after three years. Better dried. Its introduction should be gradual, in small doses.
Regular use of this product by children will help get rid of such common childhood problems as constipation, anemia, vitamin deficiency. In addition, kelp has a beneficial effect on mental development.
At an older age, your child will be able to prepare dishes from fresh seaweed. However, parents should be vigilant and choose only a quality product.
Contraindications and harm
Like any product, seaweed can be harmful in certain cases. So, it should not be abused, since if consumed excessively, it can cause unwanted reactions in the body. Pregnant and nursing mothers should eat dishes with seaweed with caution. 
The following categories of people should not eat seaweed:
- having kidney problems;
- suffering from gastrointestinal diseases;
- with a diagnosis of hemorrhagic syndrome;
- with tuberculosis;
- with endocrine disorders;
- with individual sensitivity to iodine;
- with skin diseases (furunculosis, urticaria);
- children under three years of age.
Thus, the benefits of seaweed have been known since ancient times. The fact of the presence of many valuable substances was confirmed by contemporaries who examined its content, revealing a rich vitamin and mineral composition. Therefore, kelp is recommended for use by everyone - from young to old.
However, it is important to make sure that you are not part of the group of people for whom seaweed is contraindicated. 
If you are interested in the question, then it fits perfectly:
- in salads with other seafood - crab meat, mussels, scallops, octopus;
- with other types of cabbage: Chinese cabbage, white cabbage;
- with vegetables: radish, potatoes, pepper;
- mushrooms, apples.
It is a main component of Japanese, Korean and Chinese cuisine. If someone finds the smell and taste of seaweed unpleasant, there is a solution for this - you can add it to dishes in dry form, a teaspoon at a time, instead of salt.
Thus, this valuable product is simply necessary for the human body. By wisely planning your diet, you will maintain your health.
Kelp(lat. Laminaria) , aka seaweed - has several varieties: sugar kelp Laminaria saccharina (L.) Lamour, Japanese kelp Laminaria japonica Aresch, as well as palmate kelp - Laminaria digitata (Hudg.) Lam.
Botanical characteristics
Sea kale- seaweed, which has the main part in the form of a green-brown lamellar thallus, 2-6 m long, 10-35 cm wide. Also at the bottom, the plate is transformed into a stem-petiole, and then ends with rhizoids attached to the rocky ground. Reproduction occurs by spores.
It should be noted that after the formation of spores, the plant dies, and the life expectancy is 2-4 years.
From the spores, female and male shoots develop, which form gametes. After which fertilization occurs and kelp is formed from the egg.
Distribution and habitat
Seaweed is widespread in the Seas of Japan, Okhotsk, White and Kara Seas. Forms dense thickets on open banks with constant water movement.
Procurement of raw materials. Operates from June to September. It is collected after a storm using a long “kanza” pole or a special scythe. Laminaria is dried in the sun, and crushed into powder into the pharmacy.
Security methods. The thickets are restored only after 2 years, so harvesting in different areas for collecting raw materials is recommended.
External differences. All varieties of kelp have a color of light olive, dark olive, greenish-brown, black-green, red-brown. The surface of the plant is covered with a white coating of salts, and the taste is correspondingly salty.
Chemical composition
Contains polysaccharides: high molecular weight laminarin - 21%, mannitol - 21%, iodides (2.7-3%), as well as vitamins B1, B2, B12, A, C, D, E, sodium salts, potassium, magnesium, bromine, iron, manganese, proteins, carbohydrates, fats. The shelf life of kelp in a dry place is 3 years.
Pharmacological properties
The therapeutic effect of kelp is determined by the iodine content, which has a positive effect on the menstrual cycle and the thyroid gland, and the plant also helps reduce cholesterol in the blood plasma. Sea kale polysaccharides act as a sorbent.
Form of drugs. It is a powder called “Laminaride”, which consists of polysaccharides with a protein component and salts of alginic acids.
Application and beneficial properties of kelp
Used in the treatment of atherosclerosis and endemic goiter. It is also a mild laxative for chronic constipation. It is used for diseases of the upper respiratory tract associated with human work with radionuclides. Treatment is carried out using inhalation, a decoction for which is made from 1 teaspoon of raw materials and 200 ml. water. Not recommended for urticaria, diathesis, pregnancy and other diseases where drugs containing iodine are contraindicated.
SUGAR LAMINARIA (SEA CABBAGE) - Laminaria saccharina L.
Laminaria saccharide is a brown algae and is a perennial plant with a ribbon-shaped lamellar thallus from 1 to 12 m long. It lives in the Black and North Seas.
This plant contains iodine (2.7-3%), laminarin (21%), mannitol (21%), alginic acid, fructose, vitamins B, B1, B12, B2, D, C, as well as many minerals such as sodium, potassium, phosphorus, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, bromine.
It should be noted that a wide variety of dishes can be prepared from dried and frozen seaweed, subjected to processing: poured with cold water for 10-12 hours, then washed, filled with water again and boiled for 20 minutes, the boiling procedure is repeated 3 times.
Sea kale is used in the treatment of atherosclerosis, endemic goiter, inflammation of the appendages and ovaries in women, reduces the amount of cholesterol, and in folk medicine is used to treat anemia. Also, kelp is not only a medicinal product, but also a dietary food, from which various dishes and even sweets are made.
Contraindications I seaweed:
Sea kale is contraindicated for kidney disease, acute forms of diseases of the digestive system, iodine intolerance, as well as for diseases for which drugs and products containing iodine are contraindicated. If you have serious illnesses, you should consult your doctor before consuming seaweed.
