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 Spirulina is one of hundreds of algae species and is
commonly known as blue green algae. Because so many different kinds
of algae exist, they are identified primarily by their color. Algae,
including spirulina, are tiny organisms that usually grow in water.
Some of the different algae are blue-green, green, yellow-green,
red, and brown.
Unlike most other plants, spirulina does not
have roots, leaves, or stems. Most, however, contain a pigment
called chlorophyll which is required by plants to turn sunlight into
food energy. Spirulina also removes carbon dioxide from the air and
releases oxygen. Unlike many other plants, algae create proteins and
sugars just as animals do. They are considered a nuisance on ponds
where they spread quickly.
Around the world, spirulina is
used as food source for animals and humans. While considered a food
staple in some parts of the world, spirulina is also well known for
its medical applications. It also contains antioxidants such as beta
carotene and zeaxanthin; these antioxidants are thought to decrease
the activity of free radicals that damage body cells by a chemical
process called oxidation and suppress immune
function.
Medicinal Indications of
Spirulina
In animal and human studies, spirulina has
shown to enhance immune function. It appeared to increase production
of anti-inflammatory chemicals known as interferons and
interleukins. Consequently, many professionals believe that
spirulina might possibly decrease or prevent some allergic responses
and block the release of histamine from mast cells during an
allergic reaction. By blocking histamine release, spirulina may
prevent or lessen histamine’s effects, which include blood vessel
expansion, muscle contraction, and stomach acid
production.
Spirulina may produce anticancer effects due to
its antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties. Another way that
spirulina may help to fight cancer is by promoting the release of
tumor necrosis factor alpha, a chemical in the body that attacks
tumor cells.
Spirulina also appears to block the entrance of
viral cells into host cells. Several viruses, including HIV (the
virus that causes AIDS), were apparently killed or damaged by
spirulina or chemicals derived from it in recent clinical trials.
Additional animal studies have somewhat substantiated these
antiviral effects, but much more study is needed to prove
spirulina’s ability to treat and prevent viral
diseases.
Dosage and
Administration
Spirulina is available in tablets and
powder. One tablespoon of spirulina powder is about 7,000 mg (7
grams). Follow the directions on the manufacturer’s package that you
buy. Doses used in the some human studies varied from about 1,000 mg
(one gram) per day to more than 5,000 mg (5 grams) per
day.
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