What Is Chlorella Good For?

Chlorella is a single-celled, fresh water algae that has been gaining popularity as a medicinal remedy due to its anti-viral, antibacterial and cleansing properties. Chlorella dietary supplements are being used to help fight diseases such as cancer and to prevent symptoms from neurological conditions like fibromyalgia. It is also used to support cardiovascular health and heal gastrointestinal issues. Consult a doctor before using chlorella or any herb or supplement.

Identification

Chlorella is a ball-shaped, green algae that is approximately 2 to 10 micrometers in diameter. Chlorella contains an abundant amount of chlorophyll, beta-carotene, protein, amino acids, essential fatty acids and RNA/DNA. This algae is also rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, E, K and all the B vitamins as well as iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous. Chlorella is available in liquid extract, powder or tablet forms.

Cancer

Chlorella may be effective for treating cancer. According to The American Cancer Society, chlorella does have anti-cancer properties but more research needs to be done on humans. The studies that have been performed on laboratory animals do show promise, concluding that chlorella may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. In one study published in the June 1996 issue of "Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy," clinicians showed that chlorella extract can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy treatment without affecting the strength of anti-cancer medications. In another study published in the same journal two years later in the February 1998 issue, researchers found that a protein extract from chlorella could prevent the spread of cancer cells in mice.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal, neurological disorder that is often accompanied by body pain, usually within the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Chlorella may help offset some of the symptoms that fibromyalgia sufferers experience. In fact, in one study published in "Phytotherapy Research" in May 2000, researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University found that chlorella helped decrease participants fibromyalgia pain by 22 percent. Just a year later, a study published in the May-June 2001 issue of "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine," clinicians reported that 10 grams of pure chlorella in tablet form and 100 milliliters of chlorella liquid extract taken daily by fibromyalgia patients saw reduced symptoms, an improvement in their quality of life, and normalized body functions.

Other Uses

Chlorella has long been used as a medicinal remedy throughout Asia and Japan to treat various health conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, hypertension, diabetes, hypoglycemia, colitis, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, asthma, and constipation. Today, this algae is also used to enhance immunity, promote a good balance of bacteria in the gut, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and fight viral infections.

Side Effects

There has been very little research about the side effects of chlorella, but it does appear to be safe. If you are allergic to this algae, you may experience hives or a skin rash. Using this dietary supplement may also cause short-lived nausea or diarrhea. It is important to consult a doctor before using chlorella or any herb or supplement.