Chlorella is a type of single-celled freshwater algae that contains a large amount of chlorophyll. The algae naturally grow in freshwater rivers and ponds in Asia. Chlorella is marketed by companies who gather the algae and create supplements with it to sell with the promise of cleansing the body and curing or preventing a number of diseases.
Uses
Chlorella is a natural supplement that may be used for detoxification, boosting immunity, digesting food, freshening breath, reducing body fat, fighting conditions such as diabetes and cancer, and providing the body with beta-carotene. According to the American Cancer Society, however, scientific studies do not support chlorella's effectiveness for preventing or treating any human diseases.
Fighting Disease
Though chlorella's effects in humans is unknown, a small amount of laboratory and animal research suggests chlorella may have some anti-cancer properties, according to the American Cancer Society. The ACA cites a 2001 study in which a chlorella extract prolonged the survival of mice that were injected with tumor cells.
The ACA also cites another study in which researchers gave a chlorella supplement to healthy adults to learn whether it boosted immune response to the flu shot. The study found there was no significant effect.
Protein
Chlorella has a high protein concentration and grows quickly. According to Naturalnews.com, chlorella contains twice the protein density of spinach and 38 times the protein density of soy beans, providing the body with nine essential amino acids and numerous vitamins and minerals. The website states that chlorella may fight high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar.
Available Forms
A number of companies sell chlorella in various forms. Chlorella is available in tablets, liquid extracts and powders. According to the American Cancer Society, many herbalists suggest 2 to 3 g per day, but some companies suggest taking as many as 50 pills a day.
History
Chlorella was first discovered in the late 1800s, but it wasn't until after World War II that investigators began looking into its viability as a commercial food source. Most research regarding the dietary and medicinal values of chlorella has been conducted in Japan, where the supplement remains widely popular.
Precautions
Because chlorella is considered a dietary supplement instead of a drug, it has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. However, the American Cancer Society states that chlorella appears to be safe in people who are not allergic. Still, it would be wise to consult a doctor before taking a dietary supplement.
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