Spirulina
Arthrospira platensis
Sea Moss & Algae. Latin American & Amazon and Modern nutrition.
Also called Blue-green algae, Arthrospira, Tecuitlatl
Pinyin: Luó Xuán Zǎo
Spanish: Espirulina
Can carry liver toxinsA blue-green algae grown in ponds and sold as a protein-rich powder or tablet.
Did you know? The Aztecs harvested spirulina from Lake Texcoco and pressed it into cakes called tecuitlatl.
What it may help, and how strong the proof is
- Allergies. A small trial reported better allergy symptoms. Its design is unclear, and more and better studies are needed.Traditional proof
- Cholesterol. A few small trials report lower cholesterol, but results are mixed.Traditional proof
Parts of the body
Traditional use
The Aztecs gathered spirulina from Lake Texcoco in what is now Mexico and ate it as food. Modern use is mainly as a powder or tablet supplement.
How it is classified
- Herbal actions
- Nutritive, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory. Energy: neutral.
How people take it
Studies used a few grams a day of powder or tablets. Products vary a lot, so follow the label.
Powder, tablet and capsule.
Where to get it
Grown in open ponds or tanks in warm climates, including China, India, the United States and Mexico. Sold as powder, tablets and capsules.
Be careful
Some products carry microcystins, liver toxins from blue-green algae. Allergic reactions are possible. Spirulina may stimulate the immune system, so use caution with autoimmune disease. Not for people with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic condition.
Avoid if: phenylketonuria (PKU); autoimmune disease; pregnancy.
Mixing with other things
- Works well together
Spirulina and chlorella are green algae often sold in the same green powder blends.
- Use cautionImmune-suppressing medicine (transplant drugs, some arthritis drugs)
Immune-stimulating effects may work against immune-suppressing drugs.
- Worth knowingBlood thinners (warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Plavix, daily aspirin)
Contains vitamin K, which can reduce how well warfarin works.
The honest take
Spirulina is a nutritious algae, but its allergy and cholesterol benefits come from small trials. Some products have tested positive for microcystins, a liver toxin. Buy only from brands that test for toxins and heavy metals.