Functional FoodSpirulina
Limited human evidence suggests potential benefits for allergic rhinitis, cholesterol, diabetes, and some antiviral activity in vitro, but more robust studies are needed.
Benefits
- Antioxidant
- anti-inflammatory
- immunomodulatory
- may support cardiovascular health
- may aid in blood sugar regulation.
Key compounds
Phycocyaningamma-linolenic acid (GLA)proteinB-complex vitaminsvitamin Ebeta-carotenezeaxanthinironmanganeseseleniumzinccalcium spirulan.
May help with
- Historically consumed as a food source by Aztecs and populations near Lake Chad
- purported uses include general immunostimulant and fatigue reduction.
Best for these goals
Antioxidantanti-inflammatoryimmunomodulatorymay support cardiovascular healthmay aid in blood sugar regulation.
How to use it
Powder; Tablets; Capsules
Evidence level
Limited
Cautions & interactions
Potential for cyanotoxin contamination causing liver/kidney damage; caution with autoimmune diseases, phenylketonuria, pregnancy/lactation, and those on immunosuppressants or blood thinners. | Interactions: May interact with immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and drugs metabolized by CYP1A2 and CYP2E1; use with caution.
Build a recipe with Spirulina →More in Functional Food