There are treasures to be found in the vast and wide ocean. I?m not talking about pirate's chest filled with gold or pearls the size of your fist (although these would be very exciting to have indeed). No, I am talking about the seaweed that packs a whole wealth of vitamins and minerals and that provides a long list of health benefits.

Kelp is a power-packed seaweed that is an excellent source of a bevy of vitamins and minerals. In fact, kelp (or laminar) has one of the highest mineral content in any one source. From kelp, you can get laminarin, selenium, the B-vitamins, vitamin C, protein, zinc, nitrogen, some essential fatty acids, sodium salts and a whole lot more. With these, kelp is able to help you normalize your metabolism, strengthen your immune system, lower your cholesterol level and maintain healthy and balanced body systems (digestion and respiration included).

Doctors often use kelp to combat goiter. Since it is a natural product, it virtually does not cause allergic reactions to those who take it. Kelp helps the body manage the main glands: the pituitary gland, the thyroid, and even the prostate glands, as well as the kidney. Kelp also benefits the thyroid and pituitary gland and prevents them from working overtime. As such, it is able to prevent hormonal imbalances that cause obesity, a swelling of the testes and lymph nodes, as well as edema.

Kelp also works to effectively rid the body of wastes and toxins. It does this by working on the kidney, enabling it to quickly dispose of the toxins while improving our metabolic and digestive processes.

Kelp also balances your digestive and respiratory systems and boosts the immune system. With a stronger immune system, you are better able to combat disease. With this the body is also stronger and can fight cancer, especially fibrocystic breasts and malignant cells since it multiplies the power of T-cells to combat malignancies. Kelp also eliminates uric acid buildup so as to prevent arthritis and rheumatism. With its ability to slow down the body's absorption of bile acid, you will also see an improvement of your cholesterol levels.

This bounty from the sea can be dried and used as a replacement to salt. It is also available as supplements (tablets and capsules) in most health food stores.