Spirulina

The term spirulina refers to a large number of cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae. Both Spirulina spp . and non- Spirulina spp. fall into the classification of cyanobacteria, and include: Aphanizomenon spp., Microcystis spp., Nostoc spp., and Spirulina spp. Most commercial products contain Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, Sprirulina maxima, and/or Spirulina platensis. These algae are found in the warm, alkaline waters of the world, especially of Mexico and Central Africa. Spirulina spp. are most often grown under controlled conditions and are subject to less contamination than the non-spirulina species that are harvested naturally.

Spirulina is a rich source of nutrients, containing up to 70% protein, B-complex vitamins, phycocyanin, chlorophyll, beta-carotene, vitamin E, and numerous minerals. In fact, spirulina contains more beta-carotene than carrots. Spirulina has been used since ancient times as a source of nutrients and has been said to possess a variety of medical uses, including as an antioxidant, antiviral, antineoplastic, weight loss aid, and lipid-lowering agent. Preliminary data from animal studies demonstrate effectiveness for some conditions as well as safety, although human evidence is lacking. Based on available research, no recommendation can be made either for or against the use of spirulina for any indication.

Synonyms

AFA, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae , Arthrospira platensis , BGA, blue-green algae, cyanobacteria, dihe , klamath, Microcystis aeruginosa , M. wesenbergii , Multinal, Nostoc spp., plant plankton, pond scum, Spirulina fusiformis , S. maxima , S. platensis , tecuitatl.

Note: Non-spirulina species, such as Anabaena species , Aphanizomenon species , and Microcystis species are possibly unsafe because they are usually harvested naturally and may be subject to contamination.

Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence	Grade^*
Diabetes Preliminary study of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus reports that spirulina may reduce fasting blood sugar levels after two months of treatment. More research is needed before a firm conclusion can be drawn.	C
High cholesterol In animal studies, spirulina has been found to lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Preliminary poor-quality studies in humans suggest a similar effect. Better research is needed before a firm conclusion can be drawn.	C
Oral leukoplakia (pre-cancerous mouth lesions) Preliminary research has not clearly shown benefits of spirulina in the treatment of oral leukoplakia.	C
Weight loss Spirulina is a popular therapy for weight loss, and is sometimes marketed as a "vitamin enriched" appetite suppressant. However, little scientific information is available on the effect of spirulina on weight loss in humans.	C
Chronic viral hepatitis Preliminary study of spirulina for chronic viral hepatitis shows negative results.	D
Malnutrition Spirulina has been studied as a food supplement in infant malnutrition. Spirulina does not seem to give added benefit over traditional renutritions, is more costly and therefore is not recommended.	D

*Key to grades
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.

Grading rationale

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Allergies, anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) prevention, anemia, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, anxiety, atherosclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autoimmune disorders, bowel health, brain damage, cancer prevention, cancer treatment, colitis, cytomegalovirus infection, depression, digestion, energy booster, fatigue, fatty liver, fibromyalgia, hair loss, heart disease, herpes simplex-1 virus (HSV-1), high blood pressure, HIV, immune system enhancement, infectious disease, influenza, iron deficiency, kidney disease, lead-induced organ damage, leukemia, liver protection, measles, memory improvement, mood stimulant, mumps, obstetric and gynecological disorders, pneumonia, premenstrual syndrome, radiation-induced damage, radiation sickness, selenium deficiency, skin disorders, sodium oxalate-induced nephroxicity (kidney damage), stomach acid excess, ulcers, vitamin and nutrient deficiency, warts, wound healing, yeast infection.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

Spirulina has been typically taken by mouth twice to three times daily with meals in doses of 1-1.4 grams for diabetes mellitus (type 2), high cholesterol, or oral leukoplakia (pre-cancerous mouth lesions. For weight loss, 200 milligrams of spirulina tablets by mouth three times daily, taken just before eating, has been studied.

Children (under 18 years old)

Not enough scientific information is available to advise the safe use of spirulina in children.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Avoid use in individuals with known allergy to spirulina, blue-green algae species, or any of their constituents.

Side Effects and Warnings

Few side effects have been reported with spirulina use. The most frequently reported adverse effects are headache, muscle pain, flushing of the face, sweating, and difficulty concentrating. These have been described in people taking 1 gram of spirulina by mouth daily. Skin reactions have also been reported.

Blue-green algae, especially types that are usually harvested in uncontrolled settings ( Anabaena spp., Aphanizomenon spp., and Microcystis spp.), may be contaminated with heavy metals. Liver damage has been reported.

The amino acid phenylalanine in blue-green algae may cause an adverse reaction in people with the genetic condition phenylketonuria (PKU), and should be used cautiously.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is not enough information to recommend the safe use of spirulina during pregnancy or breastfeeding. In mice, diets containing up to 30% spirulina are not reported to cause harmful effects to either the mother or the offspring. However, reliable human studies addressing safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding are not available.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

Little information is available about the interactions of spirulina and other medications.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements