Evidence supporting the use of: Kelp (unspecified)
For the body system: Parathyroid Glands
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Kelp, a type of seaweed, has been used traditionally as a source of iodine to support thyroid and, by extension, parathyroid health. The parathyroid glands regulate calcium homeostasis, while the thyroid primarily manages metabolic rate via thyroid hormones, which require iodine for synthesis. While kelp is a rich source of iodine, there is limited direct traditional or scientific evidence that kelp specifically supports parathyroid function. Most references to kelp in traditional medicine or herbalism focus on its role in addressing iodine deficiency and supporting thyroid health, not the parathyroid glands themselves. However, because the parathyroid and thyroid glands are anatomically close and sometimes mentioned together, kelp has occasionally been generalized as supportive of overall "neck gland" health in traditional herbal compendia.
Scientifically, iodine is not required for parathyroid hormone (PTH) production or regulation, and excessive iodine intake does not benefit parathyroid function. Therefore, while kelp is sometimes used in products marketed for parathyroid support, this use is based on a traditional association with glandular health rather than direct evidence relating to the parathyroid glands. The evidence for kelp's specific benefit to the parathyroid is weak, thus the rating of 2.
Other ingredients that support Parathyroid Glands
calciumkelp
magnesium
vitamin D
vitamin D3
zinc
trace minerals
bladderwrack