Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis / Arthrospira maxima)

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Other names for spirulina

Blue-Green Algae
Spirulina Powder
Spirulina Extract

Synopsis of spirulina

Spirulina is a nutrient-dense, blue-green algae (technically a cyanobacterium) belonging to the genus Arthrospira, commonly harvested from both freshwater and saltwater sources. The two most studied and cultivated species are Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima. Spirulina is often sold in powder, tablet, or capsule form and is renowned as a superfood due to its rich concentration of complete protein (up to 60–70% by weight), vitamins (especially B12 analogs and provitamin A), minerals (iron, magnesium, calcium), essential fatty acids (like gamma-linolenic acid), and antioxidant compounds such as phycocyanin, chlorophyll, and carotenoids.

In natural medicine, spirulina is used as a general vitality tonic, immune booster, and detoxifying agent. It supports liver function, energy metabolism, inflammation reduction, and antioxidant defense. Its high bioavailable iron makes it popular for addressing mild anemia, particularly in plant-based diets. Phycocyanin, the blue pigment in spirulina, is especially noted for its immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory activity.

Spirulina also demonstrates chelating abilities, helping bind and eliminate heavy metals such as arsenic and lead, and is used in protocols for environmental toxin detoxification and radiation support. In sports nutrition, it is used for endurance, recovery, and muscle maintenance due to its amino acid profile and anti-fatigue effects.

Historical Use:
Spirulina has a long-standing history of use among ancient civilizations. The Aztecs and other Mesoamerican cultures harvested spirulina from Lake Texcoco in present-day Mexico, where it was called “tecuitlatl” and used as a high-protein food source. It was sun-dried into cakes or patties and reportedly sustained messengers during long treks. Spanish conquistadors noted its use in the 16th century, though it faded from common awareness until rediscovered by scientists in the 20th century.

In Africa, Kanembu people near Lake Chad have harvested spirulina from the lake for centuries, drying it into a product known as “dihe,” which is used as a dietary protein source and flavoring in local dishes.

Spirulina gained global recognition in the 1970s and 1980s after NASA proposed it as a sustainable food source for space missions, due to its rapid growth, minimal resource needs, and complete nutrient profile. Since then, it has become a widely used supplement in functional medicine, holistic nutrition, vegan diets, and humanitarian nutrition programs, especially in regions affected by malnutrition.

Spirulina is used for these health conditions

Anemia (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Asthma (Scientific)
Athletic and Exercise Aids (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Chemical Poisoning (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholera (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (Scientific)
Cirrhosis of the Liver (Scientific)
Cold Sores (Scientific)
Colds (antiviral) (Scientific)
Colds (general) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Contagious Diseases (Scientific)
Convalescence (Scientific)
Debility (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Diabetic Retinopathy (Scientific)
Endurance (lack of) (Scientific)
Energy (lack of) (Scientific)
Environmental Pollution (Scientific)
Exercise (Scientific)
Failure to Thrive (Scientific)
Fatigue (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Hair (loss or thinning) (Traditional)
Hair Care (general) (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Heavy Metal Poisoning (Scientific)
Hepatitis (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Infection (Scientific)
Infection (viral) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Influenza (Scientific)
Lead Poisoning (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Scientific)
Measles (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Mercury Poisoning (Scientific)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Multiple Sclerosis (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Radiation Sickness (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Tuberculosis (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)

spirulina is used to support these body systems

Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Muscles (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)