A blood clot in a vein or an artery is a serious condition, because the clot can travel to the lungs, heart or brain, increasing the risk of suffering from an embolism, heart attack or stroke. Available in health food stores in powder, capsules or tablets, spirulina is often taken as a nutritional supplement to bolster the immune system. Spirulina may affect blood-clotting times, but research in this area is scant. Herbal remedies cannot replace professional medical advice, so ask your doctor if spirulina is safe for you.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a water algae that comes from the Spirulina maxima and the Spirulina platensis plants. The plant is actually a cyanobacteria that is high in protein. Used as a nutritional supplement, spirulina contains vitamins E and B-complex, calcium bioflavonoids, manganese, iron, magnesium, selenium, potassium and zinc.
Studies
In a 1996 study conducted at the Department of Virology at Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Japan, researchers tested an isolated derivative of spirulina on herpes. During the experiment, they noted that the derivative, calcium spirulan, acted as a mild anticoagulant, meaning it reduced blood clotting. Further research is necessary to confirm this effect.
Dosage
A general standard dose of spirulina for adults, is up to 1,100 mg per day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. There is no specific dose related to blood clotting disorders and there is no standard dosage available for children. For further dosage advice, contact your doctor.
Precautions
Because it is a sea plant, spirulina products may contain contaminants, so purchase products only from a reputable manufacturer. Side effects are mild and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia and nervousness. Although there are no reports of spirulina interfering with other medications, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends not taking the herb if you're already taking drugs to treat the immune system. Pregnant women, nursing mothers and those diagnosed with metabolic conditions should not take spirulina. If you're at risk for blood clots or you're currently on blood-thinning drugs, consult your doctor before using spirulina.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- MayoClinic.com: Blood Clots; Causes
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "A Natural Sulfated Polysaccharide, Calcium Spirulan, Isolated from Spirulina Platensis: In vitro and Ex Vivo Evaluation of Anti-Herpes Simplex virus and Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Activities"; Department of Virology, Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Japan; Hayashi T., et. al., 1996
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Spirulina
