Kelp: Mineral-Rich Sea Vegetable

Kelp is a large brown sea vegetable and one of nature's richest sources of minerals, including iodine. It adds a savory, oceanic depth to our calming recovery and dandelion broths.

What is kelp?

Kelp is a family of large brown seaweeds that grow in cool coastal waters. Dried and simmered, it is the backbone of many East Asian broths (it is the kombu in Japanese dashi). It naturally concentrates minerals from seawater, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iodine.

How is kelp used in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, kelp and related seaweeds (kun bu, hai zao) were traditionally used as softening, cooling foods and were valued as nourishing sea vegetables. Coastal cultures across Asia have eaten kelp for centuries.

Kelp and modern wellness

Kelp is a natural dietary source of iodine, a mineral the body uses to make thyroid hormones that regulate normal metabolism. We treat kelp in our broth as a traditional, mineral-rich food ingredient rather than a measured source of iodine, and we do not position it for thyroid support. If you have a thyroid condition or are pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider.

How Súp Wellness uses kelp

Kelp is one of the mineral-rich ingredients in our Lotus Root Calming Recovery & Collagen Booster, and Dandelion Beauty & Liver Support broths, where it adds essential minerals and lends a gentle savory umami depth. Founder Jacqueline recalls growing up with large pots of seaweed soup always on the stove and has brought her Vietnamese tradition into Súp bone broths. 

Frequently asked questions

What is kelp good for?

Kelp is a mineral-rich sea vegetable and a natural source of iodine, traditionally eaten as a nourishing food across coastal Asia.

Is kelp a good source of iodine?

Kelp is naturally high in iodine, but the amount varies widely and can be excessive. We treat it as a food ingredient, not an iodine supplement. If you have a thyroid condition, consult your provider.

What does kelp taste like?

Kelp adds a clean, savory, oceanic umami, the same quality that makes it central to traditional dashi.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Súp Wellness products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.