Benefits of Spirulina

Spirulina, also known as Arthrospira is a blue alga that contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, proteins, an omega-6 fatty acid and essential aminoacids. In North America it is available as an over the counter supplement and alternative health care providers are recommending this supplement for general health and to prevent or ameliorate specific health conditions. The role of spirulina in improving symptoms of asthma, diabetes and its ability to fight viruses and boost the immune system have been found in clinical studies, although further research is needed to fully confirm its benefits, says Drugs.com

Asthma

Although known by centuries as a nutritional supplement, spirulina became more popular after been included in the diet of astronauts from NASA while on space missions, explains B.Rabadiya, researcher and author of a clinical study published in September 2010 issue of "Journal of Pharmacy Research. Based on a review of research studies, Rabadiya found that 1 g of spirulina daily improved lung function and helped mild to moderate cases of asthma. In other cases, spirulina helped decrease the inflammation of the airways and had anti-histaminic effects.

Diabetes

Spirulina showed some positive effects in diabetics, especially when this condition was associated with high cholesterol blood levels. Its ability to lower fasting glucose levels maybe due to the fibers found in this alga, and gamma linoleic acid, and omega 6 fatty acid may be responsible for lowering the cholesterol, suggests Drugs.com.

Antiviral

Spirulina may have the ability to kill a variety of viruses. Allophycocyanin, an active compound from spirulina has the ability to inhibit an enterovirus in humans according to a study published by a research team from Taiwan in May 2003 issue of "Journal of Medical Virology." According to Drugs.com, in vitro studies found that Spirulina had antiviral activity against herpes simplex, cytomegalovirus, mumps, measles, influenza A viruses as well as HIV. Further studies are warranted to fully assess these findings.

Other Health Benefits

Spirulina appears to be the most complete nutritional source and has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and possibly anticancer properties, according to a study published by a research team from Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India in October 2008 issue of " Current Biopharmaceutical Technology."

Considerations

If you suffer from a particular health condition, consult a health care professional to find out about optimal dosage, possible side effects and drug interactions of spirulina. Choose a good quality brand of this supplement, as some spirulina extracts contain heavy metals, recommends Drugs.com. Keep in mind that spirulina does not replace, and should not be used to replace and conventional drugs.