Chlorella (Chlorella Vulgaris) is a single-celled freshwater alga. The name chlorella is derived from the Greek word chloros meaning “greenish-yellow”. This medicinal microalga was first discovered in the late 1800’s by a Dutch biologist, Beyerinck. Chlorella, is a storehouse of enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients.

Chlorella Medicinal Effects and Benefits

Chlorella is used for preventing cancer, reducing radiation therapy adverse effects, stimulating the immune system, improving response to flu vaccine, increasing white blood cell counts, protecting the body against toxic metals such as lead and mercury. In Japan, it is traditionally used as a therapy for duodenal ulcers, gastritis, diabetes, asthma and hypertension.

Chlorophyll

Chlorella contains up to 5% chlorophyll, the largest amount in any herb. Chlorophyll is actually responsible for the green pigmentation in plants. Plants use chlorophyll to trap light needed for photosynthesis. Researchers in the early 1980s discovered that chlorophylls and related chemicals could inhibit the ability of certain DNA-damaging chemicals to cause mutations in bacteria. Chlorophyll consumption increases the number of red blood cells and, therefore, increase oxygen utilization by the body.

Chlorophyll detoxifies the liver, kidney, bowel and bloodstream and helps eliminate toxins that can damage health. Research and clinical experiences have shown that chlorophyll can be a highly effective substance to help heal external wounds and lesions. Chlorophyll is considered to be a blood builder and can be used in cases of anemia. These nutrients helps red blood cells collect oxygen to enhance cell regeneration. Chlorophyll enhances the capability of nutrients that build iron in the body and so it develops the production of red blood cells. Also, because it contains magnesium, enhances the transportation of oxygen to the tissues, develops circulation and oxygen supply.

Digestion

Chlorella may stimulate the growth of healthful intestinal flora, aiding in digestion, preventing constipation and reducing symptoms of chronic illnesses including  Crohn’s disease and diverticulitis. Experiments have shown that chlorella stimulates the growth of  friendly bacteria, and its cell walls absorb toxins within the intestine and encourage peristalsis preventing constipation and toxic material in the stool being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Chlorella is known to increases the rate of multiplication of lactobacillus in the gut aiding. In 1957, Dr Tedeschi found that chlorella promoted rapid growth of lactobacillus, one of the bacteria that promotes colon health.

Detoxification

Detoxification refers to the removal of toxic substances from the body. Chlorella is one of the most important nutrients for absorption of heavy metals, including mercury. Readily absorbs toxins such as cadmium, uranium, lead and  mercury. Japan, especially, has focused on chlorella and its ability to help detoxify the body and neutralize or remove toxins and substances that are poisonous. Chlorella has detoxification potential for similar compounds, such as dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyls. Scientists from Japan demonstrated that chlorella helped detoxify uranium and lead. Other researches indicates that chlorella is effective in detoxification of high levels of mercury in the body caused by removal of mercury amalgam. Some dentists recommend chlorella to people who are having mercury amalgams replaced.

Immune System

Chlorella has a strengthening property on the immune system. It is known to enhance production of antibodies that fight infection. This includes the production of interferon, the body’s natural weapon against cancer cells. The hot water extracts of chlorella improved the immune function of malnourished mice in a study reported in Dec 2010 in Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology. A study on human cells shows that chlorella enhances anti-inflammatory immune cell signals, favoring T Helper 1 activation. This nutrient has been found to preserve the function of significant immune cells even in the presence of high stress. One study shows that thymocytes were preserved by chlorella in the face of stress, while lowering the stress hormone cortisol. This medicinal microalga, by inducing higher levels of interferon, stimulates the production and activity of macrophage and T-cells, thus enhancing the immune system’s effect  to combat harmful substances like viruses and bacteria. Interferon is a natural secretion of the body which is thought to be a stimulator of macrophages and tumor necrosis factor.

Albumin

In addition to strengthening the immune system’s response to cancer cells, chlorella acts as a protective precaution against cancer by raising blood levels of the protein albumin. Japanese scientists discovered that chlorella could raise blood levels of the protein albumin. A series of studies with rats showed that chlorella enhances albumin levels by 16% to 21%.

Albumin is one of the body’s most strong antioxidants as well as its main transport system, carrying vitamins, minerals, hormones, fatty acids and other essential substances throughout the body. Serum albumin in the human body serve as an accurate indicator of overall health. High albumin levels demonstrate healthy liver, kidney, and immune system function. Optimal albumin levels have been shown to extend the life span of cells in vitro and avoid the mutation of cancer lines. Various researches have documented that a low albumin level is a marker for important illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. Says Tim Sara, president of Nature’s Balance, (a important U.S. supplier of chlorella), “has confirmed that serum levels of albumin are extremely accurate indicators of overall health status and that low albumin levels exist at the onset and progression of virtually every nonhereditary, degenerative disease process, including cancers and cardiovascular heart disease.” The accuracy of albumin levels have led several hospitals to begin using this screening method instead of the “APACHE II” morbidity and mortality scoring.

Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF)

Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) is a nucleotide/peptide complex derived from one of the fastest growing single-celled organisms on earth. It is usually from the cell nucleus of chlorella, a concentration of RNA and DNA. Scientists have proved that “Chlorella Growth Factor” is produced during the intense photosynthesis that enables chlorella to grow so fast. Each cell multiplies into four new cells about every 20 hours, and “Chlorella Growth Factor” promotes this rapid rate of reproduction. “Chlorella Growth Factor” appear to increase RNA/DNA functions responsible for the production of proteins, enzymes and cellular energy, stimulating tissue growth and repair and protecting cells against toxic substances.

Anticancer Activity

Chlorella is nowadays used as an adjunct supplement during radiation cure for cancer. Preliminary investigations suggests chlorella tablets plus chlorella liquid extract might help patients with a type of  brain cancer called glioma better tolerate chemotherapy and radiation therapies. In one study reported in the June 1996 edition of  Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy, researchers demonstrated that chlorella extract can decrease the adverse effects of chemotherapy treatment without affecting the strength of anti-cancer drugs.

Some researches in cell cultures and animals demonstrate that chlorella may inhibit the activity of some molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells. A 2001 study demonstrated that an extract of chlorella prolonged the survival of mice that were injected with tumor cells. In 1990, a study on chlorella was conducted at the “Medical College of Virginia“. 15 glioblastoma patients were administered 20 g of powdered chlorella and 150 ml of liquid chlorella, in some cases combined with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. There was a important boost in health and immune status immediately, and a remarkable 40% two-year survival rate was reflected in follow-up studies. This is extremely uncommon for this type of tumor, which normally might yield a 10% survival rate after 2 years. In a study conducted out by the Kanazawa Medical College  in 1988, cells from mouse mammary cancer, leukemia cells, and Ehrlich tumours were implanted into mice. At the end of 20 days, all the mice in the control group had died, however 73 percent and 80 percent of the mice in the split-nucleus Chlorella and CGF groups were still alive after a period of 60 days.

Nettle (Urtica dioica and Urtica urens) is a perennial herb that grows usually in temperate regions. Many of the species have stinging hairs on their leaves and stems. The needles pump a mixture of formic acid, histamine, serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine), acetylcholine, moroidin and leukotrienes  into the epidermis, producing a stinging or burning sensation.

Nettle Study Results and Health Benefits

The roots stems and leaves of the plant are used for health problems for many including anemia, arthritis, hay fever, allergic rhinitus, urinary tract infection and for an enlarged prostate. Stinging nettle has analgesic effects, and it is frequently used to decrease inflammation and pain in muscles and joints and to treat diseases such as rheumatism and arthritis. Also this plant contains a complex of lectins known as UDA (urtica dioica agglutinin) and different polysaccharides such as  arabinogalactans and glucans, which are believed to stimulate the immune system.

Urinary Tract Infection

Stinging nettle may alleviate UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) symptoms by increasing urinary volume and helping to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract. The German Commission E (an official government agency similar to the FDA) approves the use of nettle leaf as supportive treatment in patients with lower urinary tract infections and to prevent and treat formation of urinary gravel.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Especially useful for men,  nettle root plays a key role in promoting a healthful prostate and urinary tract function. Nettle root extracts is used common extent in Europe to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH. These extracts have been shown to help alleviate symptoms compared to placebo both by themselves and when combined with other herbal extracts. BPH problems include nighttime urination, too frequent urination, inability to urinate, painful urination and irritable bladder. Lignans obtained from nettle roots attach to and alter prostate membranes. This in turn leads to less prostate tissue stimulation, and a decrease in prostate swelling.

Stinging nettle root contains several biologically active chemicals that may influence the prostate indirectly by interacting with sex hormones, or directly by altering the properties of prostate cells. Nettle root has 5-alpha reductase enzyme blocking properties and is thus beneficial for conditions associated with an enlarged prostate,  such as frequent or difficult urination. Nettle root  has been shown to inhibit the binding of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) to the prostate cell membrane. Stinging nettle root contains chemicals that reduce the production of estrone and estradiol by inhibiting production of an enzyme called aromatase that is needed for their production, according to researchers.

Lab experiments have shown stinging nettle to be comparable to finasteride (Proscar®) in slowing the growth of certain prostate cells. Most of the researches have looked at the effects of a combination preparation that contains both saw palmetto and nettle. Germany Universitätsklinik Essen formally investigated the efficacy of nettle root extract and found the antiphlogistic and antiproliferative properties of the nettle extract to provide a safe treatment option for enlarged prostate. In 2000, German scientists reported a study in the journal Planta Medica after applying nettle root extract to human prostate cells. The nettle root extract significantly inhibited the cells from proliferating, according to the scientists, who concluded that nettle extract contains compounds that are biologically relevant for prostate enlargement  and may be  beneficial for treating patients with prostate problems.

The polysaccharide fraction, of the 20 percent methanolic extract of nettle roots, was able to decrease the induced growth of prostate gland by 33 % in mice. A 6-month double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized a study (558 patients 120 mg taken three times daily) demonstrated that 81% of the therapy group experienced relief of lower urinary tract symptoms. At the end of the study period, urine flow rates measurably developed and urine retention in the bladder decreased. In a study in Poland 134 people with symptoms of  BPH were assigned to receive 2 capsules of the standard dose of an nettle (300 mg) and pygeum africanum bark extract (25 mg) or two capsules containing half the standard dose, twice daily for 8 weeks. After 28 days of therapy, urine flow, residual urine, and nycturia were significantly decreased in both treatment groups. After 56 days of therapy, further significantly decreased in both treatment groups.

In a study reported in the 2007 International Urology and Nephrology journal, 120 milligrams nettle root extract was given to patients daily for 24 weeks. At the end of the study;  revealed  53 % decrease in symptoms with 19 % increase in urinary flow and 44 % decrease in urine retention in the bladder. In a clinical trial, a combination of nettle and serenoa repens (saw palmetto) was just as effective as Proscar (finasteride) in improving symptoms of  BPH in a 48-week, double-blind trial, with fewer and milder adverse effects in the herbal group than the drug group. In a randomized, double-blind clinical trial performed by Iranian researchers and reported in 2005 in Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy, extracts of nettle significantly improved symptoms of BPH, as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score. Patients peak flow rates improved by 8.2 milliliters per second and they had a modest reduction in prostate size.

Anticancer

In vitro and animal-based studies demonstrate that stinging nettle extract has anti proliferative activities in human prostate cancer cells and protects against cisplatin-induced toxicity.  Preliminary studies shows that an aqueous extract of nettle leaves can reduce adenosine deaminase activity in prostate tissue from men with localized prostate cancer. This plant contains beta-sitosterol. Lab experiments demonstrate beta-sitosterol might have antiproliferative effects on the prostate, by inhibiting growth factors.

Allergies

Stinging nettle helps decrease symptoms related to hay fever, such as itching and sneezing. In vitro experiments show that stinging nettle extract inhibits different inflammatory events that are responsible for the symptoms of seasonal allergies. One preliminary study showed that nettle helps lessen sneezing and itching in patients with hay fever. Scientists think that may be due to nettle’s ability to decrease the amount of histamine the body produces in response to an allergen. A  study of 69 participant reported in “Planta Medica” in 1990 found that taking freeze-dried nettle leaf capsules might ameliorate allergy symptoms. A clinical study was performed to test  nettle use in allergies. At the end of the study, 57% of the patients found that the nettle was better than placebo in treating these symptoms. A study investigating the effects of nettle on allergic rhinitus found that 600 mg was able to decrease the adverse effects associated with allergic rhinitis, and that 48% of participants found it better than other over-the-counter drugs. In especially, nettle has been shown to be a histamine antagonist and inhibit mast cell tryptase; two mechanisms of action seen as anti-allergenic.

Anemia

Nettle leaf is a important natural remedy for anemia. Plant contain high concentrations of chlorophyll, iron and vitamin C. Anemia is a health problem in which the blood has a deficiency of red blood cells or of the hemoglobin these cells need to carry oxygen.

Immune System

Nettle contains a small-molecular-weight lectin (Urtica dioica agglutinin) purified from the rhizomes, which exhibits antiviral effect and is capable of favourably inducing a immune response. Research findings indicates that this lectin can inhibit a range of viruses including those responsible for colds, influenza and HIV. Scientists from the Pasteur Institute have said that Urtica dioica agglutinin “is an unusual plant lectin that differs from all other known plant lectins . its ability to discriminate a particular population of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells .” Nettle extract may provide preservation against viral infections, according to a research reported in the Feb 2011 edition of the journal “Antiviral Research.” When given on experimental animals, 5 mg per kg body weight of nettles provided important preservation against infection with SARS virus. A Netherlands study found important antiviral activity in stinging nettle extract and noted it may be useful for diarrhea caused by rotavirus infection.

Inflammation and Arthritis

Nettle polysaccharides and caffeic malic acid showed anti-inflammatory effect in vitro and in animal-based studies, via cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibition. An ethanolic extract was found to suppress HLE  (human leukocyte elastase). Human leukocyte elastase is one of the most destructive enzymes released by polymorphonuclear granulocytes, which migrate into tissues during the inflammatory process. In several studies nettle extracts were documented with anti-inflammatory effects as well as to be helpful at relieving arthritis pain and inflammation in humans. Research findings suggests that nettle anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to its ability to interrupt the production and actions of inflammation-producing immune cells in the body. A German study shows that hox alpha, a new extract of nettle leaf, contains an anti-inflammatory substance that suppressed various cytokines in inflammatory joint ailments.

Findings from a some clinical trials suggest positive effects of nettle in the therapy of osteoarthritis of hip, knee  and hand. In a study reported in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine in June 2000 issue that nettle leaf can decrease osteoarthritic pain in the base of the thumb when applied to the painful area. In a study reported in the Dec 2009 issue of  “Arthritis Research and Therapy“, found that a combination of nettles, fish oil and vitamin E reduction the need for analgesics and other drugs to decrease the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Two case studies show topically applied nettle relieves osteoarthritis pain. In a double-blind study, topical applications of nettle and white nettle ( Lamium album; a herb that has evolved to look like nettle, however does not have stinging hairs) were compared. Just stinging nettle (urtica) was associated with relief of arthritic symptoms.

Stinging nettle leaf extracts lessen inflammation, in part, by suppressing the release of inflammatory cytokines. They do this by blocking a chemical inducer known as NF-KappaB, which alters gene expresion. This may be one explanation for the favorable effects has exhibited in rheumatoid arthritis. Using nettles may decrease the need for NSAID (Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug). In a clinical trial of 37 people with acute arthritis, 50 g of stewed nettle leaf consumed on a daily combined with 50 mg of diclofenac was shown to be as effective as the full 200 mg dose of diclofenac in the therapy of  symptoms, over a two week period. In a study, researchers used a nettle leaf extract to observe its effects on dendretic cells. Dendretic cells play an important role in the initiation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In 2002 study reported in The Journal of Rheumatology, scientists treated dendritic cells, the cells that are involved in causing inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, with nettle extract. The findings was favorable, with the maturation of the dendritic cells being suppressed, which led the scientists to conclude that nettle leaf extract has a therapeutic property on RA. Nettle extract was able to keep dendretic cells from growing, however did not kill the cells. Also the most important observation in this study was that nettle extract had a positive effect against the genes associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Dosage

Typical daily dosage include 360 mg aqueous extract, 460 mg dried extract, and 600 mg freeze-dried nettle. One study used 50 g stewed nettle leaf daily for rheumatic problems. Doses of 300 mg of freeze-dried nettle leaf 2 to 3 times per day or 2 to 4 ml of tincture 3 times per day have been used to reduce allergy symptoms. For BPH; 120 mg of root extract three per day (totalling 360mg) or 2 to 4 ml of tincture 3 times per day.

Chlorophyll is actually responsible for the green pigmentation in plants. Plants use chlorophyll to trap light needed for photosynthesis. The chlorophyll molecule is very similar in structure to the haemoglobin molecule. The difference between them is that the heme molecule contains the element iron at its centre, whereas the chlorophyll molecule, also an oxygen-carrier contains magnesium.

Natural Chlorophyll Sources

Chlorella, spirulina, wheat grass, alfalfa, sea vegetables, nettle, green leafy sprouts, green cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach, asparagus, kale.

Chlorophyll Therapeutic Effects and Benefits

In 1913, Dr. Richard Willstatter, a German researcher, discovered the functions of chlorophyll. The healing aspects of chlorophyll were reported in 1940 by Dr. Benjamin Gruskin. Researchers in the early 1980s discovered that chlorophylls and related chemicals could inhibit the ability of certain DNA-damaging chemicals to cause mutations in bacteria. Chlorophyll consumption increases the number of red blood cells and, therefore, increase oxygen utilization by the body. Young barley grass juice contains 66 times more chlorophyll than spinach and is therefore one of the best natural sources of chlorophyll.

Chlorophyll detoxifies the liver, kidney, bowel and bloodstream and helps eliminate toxins that can damage health. Also, helps neutralize normal body odors and acts as a natural deodorant. In the 1940s chlorophyll began to be used as an internal deodorant for individuals with colostomies in order to control fecal odor. Dr. Wescott reported that when chlorophyll is taken internally in adequate quantities, it reduces or eliminates offensive body and breath odors.

Research and clinical experiences have shown that chlorophyll can be a highly effective substance to help heal external wounds and lesions. Chlorophyll powerful suit tends to be its capability to accelerate the formation of granulation tissue that forms the base for new tissue growth in wound healing. During the late 1940s, several studies in people with slow-healing wounds, such as vascular ulcers and pressure ulcers, reported that the application of topical chlorophyllin promoted amelioration more effectively than other commonly used therapies.

Chlorophyll is a strong antioxidant. A 1998 study by Brazilian scientist, M.S. Miranda, demonstrated that spirulina, rich in chlorophyll, phenolic acids, alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, all showed strong  free-radical antioxidant protection in test-tube and experimental models. Chlorophyll protects cells against the negative effects of radiation, such as from X-rays. In a study reported in Molecular Immunology in 2007, scientists found chlorophyll stimulated the immune system in mice and protective against radiation-induced immune suppression.

Chlorophyll is a very good  source of vitamin K. As an valuable natural source of vitamin K, chlorophyll can be used where there is a difficulty in the production of clotting factors or proteins needed for normal calcification of bone. Vitamin K, as a prothrombin factor and capillary integrity support, is important in cardiovascular conditions and circulatory problems such as  phlebitis and varicose veins.

Chlorophyll is considered to be a blood builder and can be used in cases of anemia. These nutrients helps red blood cells collect oxygen to enhance cell regeneration. Chlorophyll enhances the capability of nutrients that build iron in the body and so it develops the production of red blood cells. Also, because it contains magnesium, enhances the transportation of oxygen to the tissues, develops circulation and oxygen supply. In 1934, Dr. Rothemund discovered that porphyrins from chlorophyll stimulated the synthesis of red blood cells in a various of animals when fed in low dose. It was in 1936 when Dr. Arthur Patek reported the important findings from the study done with 15 people who were diagnosed of anemia. Fifteen participant with iron-deficiency anemia were fed different amounts of chlorophyll with iron. The level of blood hemoglobin and the number of red blood cells increased faster than with taking iron alone. Based on the knowledge that injections of chlorophyll increased the red blood cell counts of those with normal haemoglobins it was then showed that the same therapy could raise the haemoglobin of those who are anaemic. Animals were bled and their haemoglobin levels decreased to 50% of the normal. Within two weeks those being fed on wheatgrass had entirely normal haemoglobin levels. J H Hughs and A L Latner, Journal of  Physiology 1936.  The Healing Powers of Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a important source to a healthy alkaline diet. Living things are extremely sensitive to pH and function best when solutions are nearly neutral. Most interior living matter (excluding the cell nucleus) has a pH of approximately 6.8. When the body’s pH is too acidic, cells cannot function at their optimal level. This is why a person is more likely to become ill, develop infections, or even develop cancer when their diet is acidic as compared to alkaline. Test tube studies support the fact that tumors grow faster in more acidic environments.

Researches in humans have found that damage to DNA by aflatoxin can be reduced 55% through supplement with chlorophyllin at 100 mg, 3 times a day, for 4 months. Aflatoxin-B1 is produced by a fungus which lives on moldy grains, corn and beans. In a study, participants took either 100 milligrams  of chlorophyllin or a placebo before meals 3 times daily. After 16 weeks of therapy, urinary levels of AFB 1 -N 7 -guanine were 55 percent lower in those taking chlorophyllin than in those taking the placebo, suggesting that chlorophyllin supplement before meals can significantly reduce AFB 1 -induced DNA damage. (A biomarker of AFB 1 -induced DNA damage (AFB 1 -N 7 -guanine) can be measured in the urine, and high urinary levels of AFB 1 -N 7 -guanine have been associated with significantly increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma).  Chlorophyll and Chlorophyllin

Dosage

For bad breath, 100 mg has been taken 2 or 3 times daily. For colostomy odor, 75 mg 3 times daily for up to 100-200 mg daily in divided doses has been used. Doses of 100 milligrams 3 times per day for up to 4 months have been used in a study on preservation against aflatoxins. For pneumonia, infusion of 0.25% chlorophyllipt solution in physiological sodium chloride solution administered by intravenous drip has been investigated.

Spirulina is a microscopic plant that grows in alkaline water. There are several species. The ones most commonly used in supplements are Spirulina maxima and Spirulina platensis. Spirulina is one of the blue-green algae due to the presence of both phycocyanin (blue) and chlorophyll (green) pigments in its cellular structure. These algae includes more than 60% protein including being a complete source of the 8 essential amino acids and 10 non-essential amino acids.

Spirulina Therapeutic Properties and Benefits

Spirulina contains a number of nutrients, including B-complex vitamins, amino acids, phytonutrients, iron, antioxidants, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Dried Spirulina contains approximately 60% protein. Spirulina is very high in chlorophyll, which helps remove toxins from the blood and increase the immune function. An “Oregon State University” research in which lab animals were exposed to a strong cancer-causing substance found that animals given a chlorophyll prior to exposure developed far fewer tumors than animals who were not given the chlorophyll.

Spirulina includes high amounts of carotenes (including beta carotene) and xanthophylls (including cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin). Zeaxanthin is a predominant xanthophyll in human eyes and may lessen the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Increased risk of age related macular degeneration may result from low levels of zeaxanthin and lutein in the diet, serum or retina, and excessive exposure to blue light. Research findings indicates a potent correlation between high blood serum levels of zeaxanthin and a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract formation. According to a study published in the November 2002 issue of “Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science” indicates that supplementing your diet with zeaxanthin helps to avoid and reduce harm to the retinas. In a study of 2500 persons (POLA Study), high levels of zeaxanthin in their blood have 93 percent less risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and 75 percent less risk of developing a nuclear cataract. In another study with 5000 participants found high dietary lutein and zeaxanthin intake reduces the risk of developing a cortical cataract by 30%.  Beta carotene has strong antioxidant effects, helps the body scavenge free radicals, therefore limiting the damage to cell membranes, DNA and protein structures in the cell.  Findings from a number of studies suggest that beta-carotene containing foods avoid the initiation and progression of different cancers. Beta carotene stimulates a molecule that helps the immune system target and destroy cancer cells. It increases the number of receptors on white blood cells for a molecule known as major histocompatibility complex II. MHC II is integral in helping monocytes, a type of white blood cell, direct killer T cells to cancerous cells.

Spirulina promotes digestion and bowel function. These algae is 95 percent digestible because it has soft cell walls. Spirulina suppresses bad bacteria like Candida yeast and  Escherichia coli and stimulates useful gut flora like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. In a study reported in the  journal Vegetos found that spirulina destroys fungal pathogens as well, including, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans. A study in Japan demonstrated spirulina increased lactobacillus by 300% compared to a control group. Chlorophyll in spirulina helps to sanitize the bowel by detoxifying the colon and intestines. Also, the chlorophyll helps to coat the irritable stomach lining, thus aiding the alleviate symptoms of gastric ulcers and inhibit ulceration.

The main active component of spirulina is phycocyanobilin, which constitutes approximately 1% of spirulina by weight. This substance inhibits NADPH oxidase. Oxidative stress is one important source of  inflammation, and in your brain, it can result in loss of dopamine neurons and lead to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. NADPH oxidase has been shown to play a role in these ailments.

A 2002 study by the Department of Animal Sciences at India’s University of  Hyderabad from the US National Institutes of Health’s research data publication site, explains the process by which spirulina is able to inhibit the elevated levels of Cycloxygenase-2 associated with inflammation and cancer. 2002 study at Havana’s Ozone International Center demonstrated that phycocyanin from spirulina acted as an anti-inflammatory in protecting live mice which had been injected with arthritis-inducing Zymosan. The mice demonstrated no cartilage damage and an inhibited inflammatory response after receiving spirulina for 8 days following their Zymosan injections. Spirulina has preventive properties against brain damage caused by strokes, according to a study reported in the Sep 2010  edition of Journal of Neural Transmission. Also, Dr. Bickford and colleagues at found that, following induced strokes, rats which had been given diets supplemented with spirulina showed brains lesions 75% smaller than those of control group rats.

Preliminary study findings show that taking 1 g of spirulina fusiformis daily by mouth for 12 months reduces oral leukoplakia in individuals who chew tobacco. Indian researchers conducted the human study of spirulina-based cancer therapy in 1995. Researchers reported a complete regression of pre-cancerous mouth lesions in 45% of participants who were given  spirulina for 12 months. According to a study reported in October 2005 in the Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology; spirulina develops the activity of white blood cells, stimulates antibodies and enhances the number of natural killer cells. A study performed by a Chinese scientists reported in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy in Oct 2009, show that a combination of selenium and Spirulina plantesis may have the effect to avoid human breast cancer.

Spirulina activates very of the several immune cells, including macrophages, T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells. Besides, activates the organs involved with immune function such as the spleen, liver, bone marrow, and thymus gland.  Researchers discovered that it not just stimulates the immune system, also, improves the body’s ability to generate new blood cells. In vitro experiments found that spirulina had antiviral activity against cytomegalovirus, mumps, measles, influenza A viruses, HIV and herpes simplex. In  1996, researchers from the Laboratory of  Viral Pathogenesis, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School announced on-going research, saying, “Water extract of Spirulina platensis inhibits HIV-1 replication in human  derived T-cell lines and in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. A concentration of 5-10  mg/ml was found to reduce viral production.”

Spirulina has a dark blue-green color, because it is rich in a brilliant blue polypeptide called phycocyanin, which affects the stem cells found in bone marrow. Chinese researchers documented phycocyanin as stimulating hematopoiesis, emulating the affect of the hormone erythropoetin (EPO). EPO is produced by healthful kidneys and regulates bone marrow stem cell production of red  blood cells. Chinese researchers claim phycocyanin also regulates production of white blood cells, even when toxic chemicals or radiation damages bone marrow stem cells. Based on this property, spirulina is approved in Russia for treating radiation sickness. These algae was  used to treat children suffering radiation sickness after the Chernobyl disaster. Their bone  marrow is damaged, rendering them immunodeficient and unable to produce normal red or white blood cells. Children fed only 5 g of Spirulina tablets each day make impressive recoveries within 6 weeks. Children not  given Spirulina remain diseased.

Dosage

The general standard dose for spirulina is 4 to 6 500 mg tablets per day.

Side Effects

Individuals suffering from phenylketonuria, also called PKU, should not use spirulina. Spirulina can be contaminated with toxic substances called microcystins. These toxic substances are not produced by spirulina itself,  however may occur as a result of contamination of spirulina batches with other, toxin-producing, blue-green algae . Microcystin contamination can cause  renal failure, hepatotoxicity, and neurotoxicity.