Spirulina powder is a dietary supplement that may have more allure than proven benefits. Spirulina comes from freshwater algae, explains intregrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil, which is grown, dried and marketed as a health supplement. Often expensive, spirulina powder may be touted as a "miracle" supplement, Weil goes on to say. However, clinical evidence that spirulina has specific health benefits is lacking. The National Institutes of Health doesn't recommend it for any purpose other than its nutritive benefits.
Naturopathic medicine promotes a holistic approach to health with minimal use of surgeries and drugs. Please make sure to consult your physician before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.
Nutritional Benefits
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), spirulina powder is rich in amino acids, which comprise 62 percent of this supplement. Weil also states that spirulina is a good source of chlorophyll, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) points out that spirulina is very high in beta-carotene. However, the UMMC goes on to state that despite its protein content, you'd have to consume a great deal of spirulina powder to get any benefit from it for this purpose. Foods, like nuts, whole grains, meat and legumes, are better protein sources.
Immune System
The UMMC indicates that spirulina has been studied in test tubes and animals; results suggest it helps your body produce antibodies that strengthen the immune system so that your body is more resilient against infection and illness. However, no clinical trials using spirulina have been conducted to see if these benefits extend to humans.
Allergies
Test tube and animal studies indicate that spirulina may block the release of histamines that cause an allergic reaction and decrease symptoms, such as hives, watering eyes and a running nose, states the UMMC. Again, there is no clinical evidence to suggest it is beneficial to humans.
Appetite Control
According to the NIH, spirulina powder is often used for purposes of weight loss and may be touted as a natural appetite suppressant. Again, there is no evidence to support that spirulina is helpful for weight loss.
Other Benefits
Preliminary studies indicate that spirulina may be useful for high cholesterol, infant malnutrition, diabetes and arsenic poisoning, states the NIH. More studies need to be conducted to assess its efficacy for these purposes. According to the NIH, spirulina does not appear to be beneficial for chronic viral hepatitis. There's also no clear evidence to indicate it's beneficial for those with chronic fatigue syndrome.
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