Chlorella
Chlorella vulgaris
Sea Moss & Algae. Modern nutrition.
Also called Green algae, Single-cell green algae
Pinyin: Xiǎo Qiú Zǎo
Spanish: Clorela
Quality varies; allergy riskA single-celled green algae grown in tanks and sold as a powder, tablet or capsule.
Did you know? Its cell wall is tough enough that human digestion struggles with it, which is why many products are labeled 'broken cell wall.'
What it may help, and how strong the proof is
- Cholesterol. Some small trials report lower cholesterol, but results are mixed.Traditional proof
- Cleansing & detox. Often sold to 'detox' heavy metals. Good human evidence for this is lacking.Not supported
Parts of the body
Traditional use
Chlorella has no long traditional history. It became a food supplement in Japan and parts of Europe in the 20th century.
How it is classified
- Herbal actions
- Nutritive, Antioxidant. Energy: neutral.
How people take it
Taken as powder, tablets or capsules. Studies used a range of daily amounts.
Powder, tablet and capsule.
Where to get it
Grown in closed tanks or ponds with light and nutrients. Sold as powder, tablets and capsules, often labeled 'cracked cell' or 'broken cell wall.'
Be careful
Usually mild, with stomach upset, gas or green stools. Allergic reactions are possible. Poorly made products can carry contamination. Not studied in pregnancy.
Avoid if: pregnancy; breastfeeding.
Mixing with other things
- Works well together
Chlorella is a green algae often sold alongside chlorophyll in green powder blends.
- Worth knowingBlood thinners (warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Plavix, daily aspirin)
Contains vitamin K, which can reduce how well warfarin works.
The honest take
Chlorella is a nutritious algae with some small trials for cholesterol. Claims that it removes heavy metals or detoxes the body have weak support. Product quality varies, so buy from brands that test for contaminants.