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Alaska
KELP. WAKAME
Alaria spp.
Description:
Plant
Habitat: Lower tidal
zone on moderate to very rocky shores. Uses: Superior source of calcium, vitamin B2 and niacin. Used internally, it cleanses the body through the sweat
glands, tones reproductive organs and blood vessels. Used for goiter,
smooth skin, shiny hair and against obesity (as a diuretic). Used for fertilizers, cattle foods,
pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and other industries (e.g. paint). Agar can be
extracted from kelp; the major agar producer is Japan. Agar is used for
foods such as canned meat, icing and glazes, dairy products, sweet sauces
and reconstituted vegetables. Special
Harvest or Processing Comments: Cut well above the sporophylls (the small oval reproductive blades at the base of the large blade) so that the plant can continue to grow and reproduce. Do not gather more than one half the population in anyone location. Alaria spoils very quickly, so keep them as cool as possible until processing begins, then dry them as quickly as possible. When the sporophylls is left for further reproduction, Alaria may be cropped four or more times during the growing season. |
Olive
brown to green, 6-10