Spirulina

Spirulina has shown some indication of having antiviral effects in preliminary in vitro and animal studies. There is also evidence of a preliminary nature that it might favorably affect some immune functions and have some hepatoprotective capability.

Hypocholesterolemic effects have been reported in some animal studies. Animal and test tube studies suggest that spirulina increases production of antibodies, cytokines (infection fighting proteins), and other cells that improve immunity and help ward off infection and chronic illnesses such as cancer.

Spirulina promotes hematopoiesis (formation and development of red blood cells) and thus effective in anemia. This is thought to be due to the high levels of iron present in this food supplement. Animal and test tube studies suggest that spirulina may protect against allergic reactions by preventing the release of histamines and thus prevent allergy symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, hives, and soft tissue swelling. Spirulina helps to maintain healthy skin and treats several skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis. Spirulina is also contained in some skin care products due to its moisturizing and tightening properties, and components derived from spirulina may have properties to help reduce inflammation, for example, arthritis. Studies have determined that spirulina is an effective source of dietary vitamin A.

Spirulina can be used for general immune support and as an easily absorbed protein supplement in lack of appetite. It is also used in the treatment of Candida (yeast infections) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Amino acids make up 62% of spirulina. Because it is a rich source of protein and other nutrients, spirulina has been used traditionally as a nutritional supplement by people who cannot obtain sufficient calories or protein through diet alone and by those whose nutritional requirements are higher than normal, such as athletes. Although antibiotics destroy unwanted organisms in the body, they may also kill "good" bacteria called probiotics (such as Lactobacillus acidophilus) which sometimes results in diarrhea. In test tubes, spirulina has promoted the growth of L. acidophilus and other probiotics. Test tube studies suggest that spirulina has activity against herpes, influenza, cytomeglovirus, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).