Download 50 Questions with Spirulina

FAQ: (50 Questions with Spirulina)
50 Questions with Spirulina
Background of Spirulina:
Spirulina is the blue-green multi-cell algae, which cannot be seen by naked eyes. Spirulina is a
spiral stem generally found in fresh water, brine and brackish water, consisting of 60-70 % protein in dry
weight. The protein elements consist of 18 types of amino acids, several vitamins, such as vitamin A, B,
E, H and minerals, fatty acids necessary to the body.
Spirulina has been studied under various the scientific researches for more than 20 years and
consumed in more than 70 countries worldwide. Presently, it is very useful nutritious food for prevention
and symptomatic treatment, such as antiviral activity, blood nourishment, enhancing immunity against
bacteria or foreign substances for body and recovery during convalescent period.
Spirulina, the worldwide ideal algae:
Several living beings are depending on each other for their survival. Likewise, human being also
need plants and animals as their food. These natural foods are important for the survival of human beings
because these foods play major role in human body and soul. Thus, it is necessary for us to select the best
one (food) for our healthy body and cheerful mind, which is the most important thing for all human being.
Now that the best natural food has been discovered, that is a “Spirulina” algae.
Spirulina may not be the acquainted name to most people, but it is one kind of algae find since the
ancient age. Thousand of years ago, the Mexican and African used spirulina as daily food. Even though
spirulina were consumed for long time, it has just been widely known in modern industry for only 30
years.
Preface
Spirulina, the most ideal food will result in better health and enhance immunity for the millions of
people in several countries.
In addition to being an excellent food supplement, spirulina also conveys nutrients, minerals and
vitamins to human body system more efficiently than other nutritious food.
Spirulina is not a medicine but being the perfect and excellent nutrient consisting of 25 types of
natural minerals and vitamins, which are sufficient for healthy and long life, homeostasis, reducing
exhaustion and strengthening the body.
From the pharmacological researches about safety of spirulina, the project conducted by Prof.
Kenichi Akatzuka, M.Sc., Ph.D., Faculty of Pharmaceutics, Meiji University of Japan (Information from
translation book Vol. 105, Office of the National Research Commission) revealed that the safety of
spirulina are as follows;
1. Being the product with high purity
2. No side effects even after continuous consumption
3. No toxicity or side effects in case of overdose
4. Improve health and increase immunity with daily consumption of spirulina.
Spirulina is, therefore, considered as part of health improvement for all consumers who need the
benefits and perfection from the nutrients presented in spirulina.
Table of Contents
50 questions with spirulina...............................................................................................................4
Recommended quantity for taking spirulina....................................................................................18
Detoxification process and cell improvement..................................................................................19
Nutrient table of spirulina................................................................................................................20
Important nutritious ingredients in spirulina............................................................................... 21
How does spirulina may improve our health?.................................................................................22
Why spirulina is considered as ideal food?......................................................................................25
Biochemical elements of spirulina...................................................................................................26
Summary of researches/ laboratory results related to spirulina.......................................................29
International references....................................................................................................................32
50 Questions with spirulina
1. What is spirulina?
Spirulina is the micro-algae that cannot be seen by naked eyes, being multi-cell blue green algae,
grown in warm and brackish water, with the properties as alkaline. The strain, researched by more than 30
countries worldwide, is Platensis. The root of “spirulina” comes from Latin as helix or spiral that means
the spiral shape like a whorl as Deurben; the German scientist had named it as spirulina in 1927.
2. Why is spirulina called an ideal food of mankind?
Spirulina consists of more concentrated nutrients than any other food, vegetables, seeds or plants,
respectively. More than 60 % protein, of which all are easy to digest, having beta-carotene, vitamin B12,
folic acid, minerals and essential fatty acids. These elements turn spirulina out to be distinctively different
and unique from other food.
3. Are there any researches related to spirulina?
Spirulina has been researched by more than 4,000 scientists worldwide in the past 40 years.
4. Is spirulina safe for consumption?
Spirulina is the bluish greenish algae with the long history about safety for consumption as the
Mexican has consumed spirulina for long time. Recently, spirulina is adapted as food products in more
than 70 countries worldwide. Furthermore, UN has suggested it (spirulina) as the most ideal food for
mankind, and WHO has also intimated spirulina as the safe food with excellent nutrition especially for
children.
5. Are there any toxic remains in spirulina?
Spirulina is absolutely free from toxic remains and residue. It is consumed for health improvement.
6. How spirulina is different from other natural nutritious food?
Other natural nutritious food possesses different properties for nourishment, whereby some of
them must be consumed under the supervision of the physician or in limited quantity to prevent some side
effects, which may occur. Undoubtedly, spirulina is the natural food and consumable at any point of time
without any side effects.
7. What is the usefulness of spirulina in the human body?
The scientists all around the world have studied for more than 40 years and concluded that
spirulina has more health benefits to body in the following ways;
1. Enhance immunity or immune response.
2. Support heart and reduce cholesterol.
3. Helps to improve the digestive system.
4. Naturally help the detoxification process.
5. Reduce the risk of cancer and increases the antioxidant capacity.
8. What are the nutritious elements of spirulina?
Spirulina consists of several nutritious elements, which are important for health improvement.
These elements are proteins, essential amino acids, non-essential amino acids, minerals, vitamins, fats,
sugar, mineral salts, pigments and calories.
9. What is the suitability of spirulina?
Spirulina is suitable as a nutritious food not only for healthy, unhealthy person but also for those
who have the following symptoms: easily get tired, easy to catch cold, insufficient consumption of green
or yellow vegetables, dizziness, lack of some nutrients, skipping of meals like breakfast or person under
diet.
10. After being consumed, which factors induce body response against spirulina?
Spirulina uptake is able to cause immediate or slow result to body response, depending on several
factors including age, stress, eating habits, chemical residues in body and severity of diseases. Spirulina
should be consumed continuously and sufficiently for a long with proper exercise and adequate rest.
11. What is the appropriate quantity for consuming spirulina?
The appropriate quantity is based on the suggested quantity, such as the healthy person should take
6 capsules a day, 2 capsules each meal.
Person on diet should take 6 capsules each meal, 3 meals a day before food. However, spirulina
can be consumed unlimitedly without any side effects due to its toxic free substances.
12. Will the nutritious value be decreased if spirulina powder is removed from capsule?
Removal of spirulina powder from capsule will not decrease its nutritious value. The other way to
uptake spirulina is to mix spirulina with milk, juices etc.
13. Why do some interactions occur after spirulina being consumed?
The body interaction against spirulina, such as skin allergy, mild fever, is only temporary incident,
which shall be automatically recovered within 2-3 days. This interaction can be caused by unhealthy
and/or insufficient consuming of spirulina. In contrast, there are no side effects on a healthy person.
Consumption of spirulina would nourish and balance one’s health (as seen on page 19).
14. Is it possible to consume spirulina with medicine?
Spirulina is not a medicine, yet it is the natural food containing with 5 groups of essential nutrients.
It is, therefore, consumable with other medicines and also helps body absorbing full benefits from
medicine.
15. Can the patient at the recovery stage take spirulina?
A patient at the recovery stage needs essential nutrients in order to comeback to a normal stage
since spirulina has plenty of several nutrients, which is suitable as food supplement for all patients.
16. How does spirulina benefit to one who takes insufficient green or yellow vegetables?
Person who does not consume sufficient green or yellow vegetables can take spirulina as food
supplement because it consists of vitamins, mineral salts and other pigments, such as chlorophyll, vitamin
A, beta-carotene, etc. to substitute the natural compositions from vegetables.
17. Should children take spirulina?
Protein in spirulina will develop and enhance the growth of children. They can consume spirulina
by mixing it with milk if they cannot take capsule directly.
18. Can spirulina reduce stress?
Person under stress or mental problems may be influenced or suffering from diseases, such as
peptic ulcer or hypertension. Those who are suffering from such diseases should take sources of food that
are rich in vitamin B complex, essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, which are mostly found in
spirulina. It is, therefore, considered as a good source of food supplement for reducing serious illnesses
and strengthening the immune system of the patients.
19. How does spirulina suit the patient suffering from peptic ulcer?
The medicine for peptic ulcer treatment consists of chlorophyll and so does spirulina. Due to the
property of chlorophyll-contained in spirulina, it can reduce the inflammation in the stomach. So, it is
believed that spirulina might help in treating peptic ulcer.
20. Spirulina and elderly patient
Older person usually has some chronic diseases, such as hypertension, cardiopathy, and some
types of cancer, diabetes, gout, cataract, liver disease or renal disease. Spirulina will improve health of the
elderly person. Some researches in Japan has found out that more than 70 % of people taking spirulina
were over 50 years old, where by 57 % were female. They mentioned that the purpose of taking spirulina
was for treating some diseases, health improvement and food supplement, respectively.
This can be concluded that spirulina is considered as the life-extending medicine for old age,
because it can well protect some elderly diseases.
21. Spirulina and youngster
Arginine is an essential amino acid containing in semen for approximately 80%. Lacking of
arginine may cause sexual disability or sterility. Tryptophan is also an amino acid affecting the male
sexuality. In addition, zinc is a mineral useful for treating abnormal sexual function. As spirulina consists
of amino acids, calcium and zinc that resulted in sexual potency. So, spirulina is suitable for both young
female and male.
22. Does spirulina help reduce cholesterol?
Recently, it is widely recognized that cholesterol increases the risk of heart attack, which is the
most serious problem of public health. Reduction of cholesterol is another way to decrease risk of
cardiopathy. Consequently, spirulina is the natural food that helps in reducing cholesterol.
Some research mentioned that taking spirulina could reduce cholesterol. This may be because
body had received GLA (Gamma-linolenic acid), which is mostly found from spirulina.
23. How does spirulina help sportsman?
Sportsman needs more and extra nutrients from any source. According to the composition
spirulina, is composed of special concentrated nutrients that are suitable for exercising and hard training.
Taking spirulina before training and competition would help energize and strengthen the muscles. Because
spirulina comprises of more than 60 % of proteins and amino acids, therefore it helps in reducing calories,
which is the important factor for weight control in sports events and competition.
24. What is the usefulness of beta-carotene in spirulina?
Beta-carotene is an anti-cancer substance. Several researches revealed that taking beta-carotene
helps in the prevention of cancer. Beta-carotene is a source of vitamin A found in spirulina and is 20-25
times higher than in carrot. In addition, beta-carotene can help protect chemical substances causing
malignant tumor, defending chromosomal changes causing cancer and enhancing immune system. Since
beta-carotene exhibits high anti-cancer property, spirulina can be replaced for vegetables or fruits.
25. How does spirulina helps in digestion and absorption in the body?
There is one microorganism in human intestine called lactobacillus, which helps in digestion and
absorption of food, prevent infection and activate the immune system. With its enormous benefits,
spirulina has become a great hit to take lactobacillus as a food supplement. Spirulina can activate
lactobacillus in intestine and help improve absorption of vitamin B2. Taking spirulina is useful to increase
lactobacillus in intestine and absorption of vitamin B1 and other vitamins.
26. Hepatitis and spirulina
Hepatitis is caused by several factors, such as virus infection, non-hygienic food or allergic side
effects from medicine. Currently, the way to treat it is to take sufficient rest and also take sufficient
nutrients and proteins. Spirulina can help abate chronic and serious hepatitis because it is composed of
vitamin B12 and 60-70 % protein; protein is the important factor for the treatment of hepatitis. Several
researches by Japanese physicians found that spirulina can help abate hepatitis.
27. Spirulina and patient with pancreatitis
Inflamed pancreas is caused by self-digestion of liver, drinking too much liquor, gallstone or
eating highly fatty food. The treatment is to solve it at its origin; for instance, if the disease is caused from
drinking too much alcohol, stop drinking can prevent it. The other treatment may be carried out by eating
food with high nutrients. As spirulina is rich in protein, high digestion rate, low fat, high vitamins and
mineral salts. Spirulina will not cause any problem during digestion for the patients suffering from liver
diseases (pancreatitis).
28. Spirulina and hair loss
Spirulina is able to reduce rate of hair loss, activate hair growth, as spirulina consists of necessary
fatty acids (sometimes called vitamin F), including linoleic acid and arachidonic acid which are the
important fatty acids for nourishing hair, skin and nail. Meanwhile, they are helpful for the hair roots that
leads to beautiful and strong hair.
29. How does spirulina help in treating of anemia?
Spirulina contain high level of proteins, chlorophyll, vitamin B12 and folic acid; therefore, it is
able to increase the quantity and efficiency of red blood cells, which will result in more exchange of
oxygen for better circulation within 30 days. Spirulina also gives an excellent nutritive value to the
patients who lacks nutrients for longer period of time and improves health by providing sufficient vitamin
E, B12 and folic acid.
30. Optic problem and spirulina
At present, more old age people suffer from ophthalmic problems, such as cataract, abnormal
retina and the symptom of other diseases, such as diabetes and anemia. Several tests from Japanese
physicians were found that spirulina could help treat cataract and stop the development of the disease that
affects vision. In the hypertensive patient or clogged blood vessels in retina, spirulina can be taken with
medicine for better results.
31. Is spirulina easily digested in human body?
95 % of spirulina can be easily digested in human body as spirulina has thin cell membrane and
consists of proteins, polysaccharides, and enzymes that can be quickly by the body. It is, therefore,
considered as easily digestive food. Spirulina is well suited for those who have problems about digestion
or esophageal including old age people.
32. Can we eat only spirulina as food?
Spirulina is rich and full of nutritious values yet human body should consume different kinds of
food and should not consume only one type of food to prevent lack of nutrient. Spirulina should be
consumed together with food or as food supplement to enhance body health.
33. Is it true that spirulina is useful for all age?
Spirulina is useful for people of all ages; for instance, the old age person easily digests spirulina,
whereas the sportsman shall receive great energy from spirulina. Children can receive nutritive values for
their growth, or the pregnant women will get folic acid and protein from spirulina, etc.
34. Is spirulina internationally accepted?
Spirulina has been accredited and certified by the leading institutes of the world, such as;
1967: “The International Conference on Applied Microbiology” has announced that “Spirulina must be
considered as an important future food source”.
1974: UN has announced in the World Food Conference that spirulina was “The most ideal food for
mankind”.
1974: FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) has introduced that spirulina was “The best food
for tomorrow”.
1981: FDA (Food and Drug Administration) of USA has certified that spirulina is “The healthy and
safety product free from side effects”.
1983: IFE (International Food Exposition) held in East German has awarded the prize “The best natural
food” to spirulina.
1992: WHO (World Health Organization) has introduced that spirulina was “The healthy product in 21st
decade”.
35. Has the manufacturer of spirulina achieve the standard?
The manufacturing unit of Advanced Spirulina Biotechnology Co., Ltd, located at 351, Moo 1,
Tambon Sala, Amphur Koh Kha, Lampang, 52130. The head office is at 444, Olympia Thai Tower, 10th
Floor, Ratchadapisek Road, Samsennok, Huaykwang, Bangkok, 10320. It is the international standard
company duly established on 1 April 1999 with the initial registered capital 1,000,000 Bahts. Recently, its
registered capital has increased to 25,000,000 Bahts, which has led the company to fluently operate its
business and been recently supported and also promoted by the Board of Investment. All products under
the name of Advanced Spirulina Biotechnology (ASB) has been strictly examined through laboratory
tests, which are more than 20 steps under the high experienced QC control team works throughout the
manufacturing processes to ensure that the consumer will be served with high nutritive value products
according to the international standard in every respect.
36. Is there any organization to certify the correctness?
Spirulina from Advanced Spirulina Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is served with high quality and
standard, and has been certified by FDA No. 52-1-02643-1-0002 to certify the safety for consumption and
by the Islamic Institute according to the Halal certificate No. 471(8)/2543 from the ICOT.
37. How about the service system within the organization?
There are several types of activities within the organization, such as 5C activities, GMP, HACCP
and ISO 9001: 2000 standards.
38. Which organization has been supporting the company?
Advanced Spirulina Biotechnology Co., Ltd. has been promoted from BOI and Small Industrial
Finance Corporation, and is also the member of Traditional Medicine Manufacturer and Seller Association
(Thailand).
39. How the consumers can rely on the products?
The consumer can rely on the products, which have been passed through the modern
manufacturing process with automatic and semi-automatic machines of ultramodern technology. The
company can certify that the products has achieved the standard, safety and high quality as guaranteed by
the best factory award for food and beverage industry in 2000 and 2002 from the factory contest office
duly consisted with the representative from 5 ministries to ensure the manufacturing quality of the
company.
40. The policy of the company
The goal of Advanced Spirulina Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is to manufacture and distribute food
supplement products extract from spirulina algae by emphasizing on the efficiency and improvement of
the product, proposing new products to correspond with the demand and new emerging market. Company
would like to be the leader in domestic market and leader in developing, breeding and technology from
new innovation.
Spirulina should be taken as food to supplement the insufficient nutrients daily and able to take with
medicine or other food supplements.
41. Can children and pregnant woman women take spirulina capsules?
Children should take at least 2 capsules a day by taking with milk in the morning and evening.
Pregnant women should be advised by physicians before taking spirulina capsules.
42. Should we take spirulina capsules before or after meals?
Spirulina capsules are nutritional supplements, which can be taken before or after meals. However,
they should be taken 30 minutes before meals to get the best absorption.
43. Can patients with heart disease, impaired kidney function, cancer or AIDS undergoing conventional
therapy take spirulina capsules?
Patients should take medicine as prescribed by physicians and take spirulina capsules as nutritional
supplements to promote health and renew body cells. The spirulina capsules may be taken alternately with
conventional medicines. For example, if the patients take the medicines after meals, they may take the
spirulina capsules before meals. If they take the medicines both before and after meals, they may take the
spirulina capsules at bedtime.
44. How to take spirulina capsules to lose weight or firm body?
During the first week, take 3 spirulina capsules 30 minutes before each meals, then increase the
amount by taking 5-6 capsules in the second week, and maintain the amount of 6 capsules before each
meal, three meals a day for 6 months. Within the first month, limit the amount of diet, for example, after
taking 5 capsules with 2 glasses of water, you will feel full and then you may skip the meal while
receiving plenty of nutrients from spirulina. However, you should eat at least one meal a day. If you feel
hungry between meals, you should take some fruits, such as guava to limit the intake of calories. This will
help you in the gradual weight reduction of at least 4-6 kgs within 3 months.
45. The label on the bottle says “contain 100% Spirulina” What does it mean?
Each capsule is 100% spirulina powder. This means that spirulina powder is 500 mg, and capsule
shell is about 100 mg approximately. The content in the capsule is 100% spirulina powder. Other types of
products, excluding spirulina capsule, may contain starch as filler, therefore; consumers would inevitably
receive starch and may risk to molds or fungi growing with the moisture in the starch. Some tablets are
protected from mold by waxing.
46. A different between drug and dietary supplement
The term “drug” means particles using for diagnosis, treatment or prevention of disease in human
being or other animals; and pharmaceuticals or partially processed pharmaceuticals that intended to affect
the structures or functions of human body or other animals.
Drug is known as one of the four essentials of life. Although the use of drug is generally
beneficial, it can have some severe side effects or adverse effects to some extents. It is important to take
with caution and consult physicians or pharmacists before taking any drug.
“Dietary supplement” is not a “drug”. It generally contains an optimal combination of nutrients
from natural sources. It is good source for correcting nutritional deficiency as well as good for health.
Minor side effects from using dietary supplement may happen, especially when compared to drug.
Allergic reaction to dietary supplement may sometimes be rare and mild.
To get the maximum benefit from dietary supplement, it is advised to consult experts or search for
more information.
There are examples of dietary supplement from natural sources including spirulina, wheat germs
and cereals, which are good sources of plant proteins, vitamins and minerals. However, for good health, it
is recommended to eat balanced diets food, exercise daily, avoid stress and take some good rests.
47. What are the company policies related to quality control and how can the company control the quality
of the products?
The company’s vision is to be the best healthcare product and service provider for Thai people.
The company recognizes the importance of setting up the quality assurance system in order to win the
confidence and trust of customers in health food products manufactured by the company. Operating and
applying for various stages of quality control including GMP, HACCP and ISO 9001 can achieve this
confidence and trust. We are proud to tell and announce that we have achieved all the above-mentioned
standards.
Notes: - GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) establishes the criteria and guidelines essential for manufacturing
and quality controlling in order to be complied by manufacturers ensuring safe manufacturing practice of
food.
- HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) is the system for hazard analysis and control of
critical points in order to protect the consumers from any harmful substance. This may be termed as CCP
in abbreviation. It refers to strict monitoring of every critical point ascertaining that the food is safe for
consumers and according to the international standards for quality assurance in manufacturing and service
industries.
- CODEX, in food manufacturing means there are several steps in manufacturing and quality controlling
in order to produce food that is safe and can be trusted by the customers according to the International
Food Guidelines or CODEX. The company follows Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) of food,
therefore; it can be reassured that the company can produce high quality food without any contamination,
which may be harmful to the consumers. CODEX is the abbreviation of FAO/WHO commission known
as Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC). Codex Alimentarius comes from Latin words meaning food
code. Thus, in general sense, Codex Alimentarius means international guidelines and regulations related to
food.
48. Which organization or institutions is supporting the company?
The manufacturer of spirulina was set up by standard procedures and was supported by Board of
Investment (BOI) and Financial Institute for Small to Medium Enterprises.
The spirulina was manufactured under high standards and received the Award for Distinction in
Food and Drink Industry of the year 2000 and 2002 from Ministry of Industry. Thus, the consumers can
trust our products undergoing modern manufacturing technology.
49. How does the company improve its organizing management?
In the present world, things change quickly than anticipated that result in “endless demand for
satisfaction of the customers”. The company has developed its organizing management and
administration based on the feedback and consultancy from customers and personal training in the most
efficient manner. Moreover company acquires a team of professional consultants with high levels of
intellects and experience in order to respond to the changing consumer behavior, demand and satisfaction.
50. What are the future plans of the company?
The company is improving its potency in all aspects in order to be the leader in manufacturing
spirulina in a complete cycle. In addition, our company has the standard algae culturing ponds with the
Award of Distinction in the year 2000 and 2002 for raising enough quantity of raw materials for producing
health food. The company is now in the stage of initiating the SPA HEALTH & BEAUTY RESORT.
The company also produces 15 natural beauty products, such as spirulina shampoo and hair conditioners,
spirulina facial and body scrub, spirulina whitening mask and spirulina nourishing mask. Besides, the
company has developed the additional 16 health and beauty products containing mixture of spirulina and
various herbs for export. The company has the confidence to provide complete service to customers since
we are ready to be the leader in the spirulina business.
Recommended quantity of taking spirulina
Type of disease
1. Diabetes
Recommended quantity per day
3 times @ 5 capsules
2. Anemia
3. Chronic hepatitis
Acute pancreatitis
Viral hepatitis
4. Peptic ulcer
3 times @ 5 capsules
Duration
The sugar level shall be
reduced to almost normal
within 2 months.
Recovered within 15-30 days
3 times @ 5 capsules
Recovered within 1-3 months
5. Cirrhosis of liver
3 times @ 5 capsules
Better symptom within 1-3
months
10 capsules before drinking alcohol Help to prevent the Cirrhosis
and drunk
6. Cataract
7. Hair loss
8. Health improvement
9. Sportsman
10. Old age disease
11. Exhaustion, dizzy
12. Pollution from heavy metals
13. Fatty disease
2-3 times @ 6 capsules
2 times @ 4 capsules
2 times @ 2-3 capsules
2 times @ 3 capsules
3 times @ 6 capsules
3 times @ 5 capsules
3 times @ 6 capsules
3 times @ 6 capsules
14. Pimple, blemish
15. Allergy
16. Loss of white blood cell
17. Toxic from radiation
18. Stress
19. High cholesterol
20. Diarrhea, vomiting
21. Cancer
22. Renal disease
3 times @ 5 capsules
3 times @ 6 capsules
3 times @ 6 capsules
3 times @ 6 capsules
3 times @ 5 capsules
2 times @ 5 capsules
3 times @ 5 capsules
3 times @ 5 capsules
2 times @ 2 capsules
Can be continuously used
30-90 days
Can be continuously used
Can be continuously used
Can be continuously used
Recovered within 15-30 days
Can be continuously used
Can be continuously used
(before meal 15-30 minutes)
30-60 days
Can be continuously used
Can be continuously used
More than 45 days
Can be continuously used
30-60 days
15-30 days
Can be continuously used
Can be continuously used
The consumers of spirulina can be classified into 3 groups
Unhealthy person may cause some interactions
according to the table of detoxification process, as shown at
60 %.
20%
Unhealthy person may not cause any interaction
because of sufficient taking spirulina, as shown at 20 %.
20%
60%
Healthy person may not cause any interaction as well as
be resulted in good health improvement and protection, as
shown 20 %.
(Table of detoxification process is shown on page 19.)
Suggestive quantity of taking spirulina is shown on page 18, which is the quantity for treatment of
the patient with alternative medicine. This information is complied from partial information from
translation paper of National Research Commission Office Volume No. 105. If you are currently treated
by modern medicine, it is suggested to take modern medicine according to the suggestion of the
physicians and can safety take spirulina as food supplement for health improvement.
DETOXIFICATION PROCESS AND CELL INPROVEMENT
(If there is any interaction, it is shown that your body is under the process of self-treatment.)
Interaction
Fever or mild fever
Possible cause
Protein in spirulina and other nutrient would activate body to
emit heat, which increase body temperature to build up new cells
Fever, alert and sleepless
Caused by the biotransformation of excess fat of body to heat
Black or green feces
The green color is caused by green pigment in spirulina.
Stomachache
Abnormal digestive system, wound in the bladder
Difficult breathing
Gout, uric acid, asthma, allergic
Drowsy, exhaustive hands and legs
Urine is in alkaline condition, liver failure, gout
Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, hiccup Found in nutrient-lacking person, take too much dietary medicine
Small pimple, rash on skin, drowsy
Resulted from detoxification process, allergic or abnormal
function of liver
Cold, flu, sore throat
Resulted from dispersion of virus and bacteria through body
Irregular menstruation
Occurred while body is under hormone-balancing process and
repairing new cells
Catarrh, asthma, productive cough
Malfunction of respiration system, increase immunity and get rid
off virus
Bloating from too much gas
Malfunction of renal, peptic ulcer, abnormal digestive system
Nosebleed
Anemia, sinus, weak and small blood vessel
Rectum pain or irritated, bleeding Hemorrhoids, detoxification, accumulation of virus and bacteria
through rectum
No reaction
Body is almost healthy in case of continuous eating spirulina or
otherwise less eating spirulina
Remark: These interactions are normally shown for 2-3 days or longer depending on individual’s health.
The interaction showed in this page is derived from scientific researches, which can be indicated as
follows: As the human body receives several nutrients from spirulina, it helps generate and repair cells
including red and white blood cells. The elements in the blood cells can replenish body to efficiently resist
against diseases and dispose the strange substances and toxic. This will improve body’s immune system.
The duration of these interactions is based on each individual’s health and will be automatically recovered
within 1-2 weeks. While undergoing these interactions, one should continuously have spirulina for health
improvement and detoxification of toxic substances in the body.
Nutrients of spirulina
Protein
71.1 %
Vitamins
mg./kg.
Essential amino acids
Isoleucine
Leucine
Lysine
Methionine
Phenylalanine
Threonine
Tryptophan
Valine
4.13%
5.50%
4.0 %
2.17%
3.95%
4.17%
1.13%
6.0 %
Non-essential amino acids
Alanine
Arginine
Aspartic acid
Cystine
Glutamic acid
Glycine
Histidine
Proline
Tyrosine
Serine
RNA
DNA
5.82%
5.98%
6.32%
0.67%
8.94%
3.46%
1.08%
2.97%
4.60%
4.0 %
3.5 %
1.0 %
Essential fatty acids
mg./kg.
Palmitic acid
Gamma-linolenic acid
Linoleic acid
Palmitoleic acid
Oleic acid
Stearic acid
21,141
11,970
13,785
2,035
3,009
353
Thiamine B1
Riboflavin B2
Niacin B3
Pyridoxine B6
Cyanocobalamin B12
Tocopherol E
Vitamin K-1
Inositol
Folic acid
Pantothenic acid
Biotin (H)
55.0
40.0
140
3.0
2.0
190.0
22
350
0.5
11.0
0.4
Pigments
Beta-carotene
Carotenoids
Phycocyanins
Chlorophyll
mg./kg.
1,700
4,000
140.0
7,600
Minerals
Calcium
Magnesium
Potassium
Phosphorus
Sodium
Manganese
Zinc
Copper
Chromium
Iron
mg./kg.
1,315
1,915
15,400
8,000
412
25
39
12
2.8
580
Those nutrients are pure natural substances unlikely to the vitamin substance and/or mineral that
are synthesized from chemicals. It is, therefore, not accumulated in body due to long time-consumption.
Important nutrients found in spirulina for contributing the prevention, treatment, and inhibition
of the organs of body according to the nutrition principles
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•
•
Activating the function of brain
- Niacin, Valine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Zinc, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B3
Emotion controlling
- Inositol, Phenylalnine, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B3
Protecting brain fiber
- Serine, Phenylalanine, Vitamin B6
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Preventing hair loss
- Linoleic acid, Gamma-linolenic acid, Zinc, Arachidonic acid, Inositol, Biotin
Optical problem
- Beta-carotene (Vitamin A), Riboflavin
Listening
- Histidine
Reducing stress
- Methionine, Pantothenic acid, Tryptophan, Phenylalanine, Inositol
Oxygen generating
- Glutamic acid, Tocopherol
Increasing the capacity of red blood cells
- Chlorophyll, Vitamin B12, Folic acid, Alanine, Iron
Cardiopathy
- Gamma-linolenic acid, Lactic acid, Celenium, Vitamin E, Vitamin B6
Hypochromasia
- Iron, Vitamin B12, Magnesium, Vitamin B6, Chlorophyll, Folic acid
Reducing cholesterol
- Gamma-linolenic acid, Inositol, Niacin
Reducing inflamed pancreas
- Cysteine
Gastropathy
- Chlorophyll
Skin nourishment
- Chlorophyll, Tyrosine, Vitamin E, Phycocyanin
Cancer
- Beta-carotene, Vitamin E, Phycocyanin
Hepatitis
- Protein, Inositol, Methionine, Leucine, Isoleucine
Improving sexual capacity
- Tryptophan, Arginine, Zinc, Vitamin E, Vitamin F
Supplementing digestion and absorption
- Iodine
Weight control
- Phenylalanine, Tyrosine, Chromium
Diabetes
- Magnesium, Chromium, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3
Blood breaching
- Arginine
Maintaining sugar level in blood
- Potassium, Chromium
Gout, Rheumatism
- Serine, Pantothenic acid
Enhancing immunity
- Alanine, Beta-carotene, Vitamin E, Pantothenic acid
Increasing renal function
- Phosphorus
Improving energy synthesis
- Aspartic acid, Glycine, Vitamin B complex
•
Osteoporosis (Bone problem)
- Calcium, Zinc, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Potassium
How spirulina improve our health and prevent diseases?
At present, the environment is contaminated with toxic substances, including water and air
pollution, contaminated food, and stress level, which are the major causes of health hazards especially to
our beloved one.
Spirulina algae
Spirulina is the ideal food supplement. Scientists have discovered it since the ancient age as the
miracle plant originated for more than 3,500 million years. More than 4,000 scientists in more than 20
countries had studied, researched and founded that spirulina is an excellent food supplement that can
safely help in abating several serious diseases and enhance immunity at all ages.
Help to control overweight problems
The proper and better way of dieting should not cause deterioration, exhaustion and emotional
change. This condition can be substituted by spirulina, which is the perfect food supplement with low fat
and calories resulting in the healthy weight lost. Phenylalanine would activate the metabolism of our body,
while tyrosine helps controlling eating habit.
Control diabetes and sugar
Too much sugar level in the body causes diabetes, which is difficult to treat but controllable. The
nutrients that are specially provided for diabetic patients are beta-carotene, vitamin A, B1, B2, B5, B6,
B12 and C, Manganese, Magnesium, Potassium and Zinc, as those are necessary for balancing the body
condition.
Abate hair loss
Spirulina consisted of high protein, vitamin and chlorophyll, it is able to stop hair loss and activate
blackening of the hair. Vitamin F or nucleic acid in spirulina act as oxygen-carrier to several cells through
body and directly effect the hair, skin and nails.
Anti-virus
Several researches from Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Toyama, Japan found that
calcium extracted from spirulina gives best result in treating several kinds of virus, such as uticaria
influenza, mump, german measles, etc.
Sexual improvement and reproduction
Eating insufficient food might affect sex hormones production. Spirulina consists of Zinc and
amino acids that help to promote sexual capacity.
Tryptophan (amino acid)
Increase sexual energy and enhance sexual confidence for male
Arginine (amino acid)
Existing 80 % in male sperm, lacking of this amino acid may cause impotence or sterility
Anti-allergy
Pantothenic acid in spirulina can excellently help in preventing allergy or infection, allowing the
patient to have better life.
Renal nourishment
Spirulina consists of phosphorus 8,000 mg/g as our body needs 1 g of phosphorus to jointly use
with other vitamins to destroy limestone in the body caused by uric acid accumulation, and then clean up
the renal tube to reduce gout and gallstone in kidney. In addition, phosphorus is a factor helping the
phosphorelation process for better function of kidney.
Suitable for the golden age-old age person
The continuous lack of nutrients from proteins, vitamins and mineral salts including the decreasing
in absorption capacity and menopause condition may affect to the change of hormones. Spirulina is only
one food in the world that mostly like the drug prolongs life; replenish body to become distinctively
young.
Cancer resistance
Cancer is considered as the second serious disease that killed human being before appropriated
age. Spirulina consists of beta-carotene preventing cancer as well as phycocyanin and chlorophyll
resisting the growth of cancer cells.
Abate inflamed stomach
Spirulina composes of high chlorophyll, which helps to heal the wound in bladder and reduce the
swollen tissue. Mesafirine, the substance found in spirulina also help to treat the wound in bladder.
Liver nourishment
Liver needs high proteins for functioning. As spirulina consisted of methionine, essential amino
acid, to restore the liver cells being recovered from hepatitis or other liver diseases, which almost found to
be the dangerous disease.
Why spirulina is considered to be an ideal food?
- Consisted of protein which is 4 times higher than protein in meat and 5 times more than egg.
- Consisted of 8 amino acids which can not be completely produced by our body, so-called essential
amino acid
- Consisted of beta-carotene which is a source of vitamin A, that is 20-25 times more than in carrot.
- Consisted of vitamins and mineral salts at appropriate quantity upon comparing with other food.
- Consisted of vitamin B1 more than 100 times comparing with vegetables, fruit and some animals
- Consisted of vitamin B2 which is 5-20 times more than other foods
- Consisted of vitamin B12 that helps to enhance good memory and also prevent serious anemia. Most
people take vitamin B12 from animal livers, but spirulina consists of vitamin B12 which is 2.5 times
more than in those animal livers. Additionally, it is suit for brain and also appropriate for the vegetarians
as well.
- Consisted of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which is an important fatty acid to reduce cholesterol,
prevent hypertension, cardiopathy and free from toxic substances.
Spirulina helps to nourish brain for good health.
Amino acid is the organic substance daily desired by our body. Spirulina consisted of 8 essential
amino acids that cannot be produced by our body. Lacking of these amino acids consequently will result
in the lack of raw materials that produce hormones and support brain. Insufficient amino acids will cause
several diseases. As spirulina is composed of complete amino acids, it can replenish the nervous system,
protect the brain cell and improve the brain system.
Biochemical elements in spirulina
Chemical substances of spirulina
Positive properties to body
Protein 60-70 % by dry weight
Consisted of completed amino acids essentially for
body and can be 4 times easily digested compared to
protein from meat ad bean
Essential amino acids
Amino acids, which cannot be synthesized by, body
Isoleucine 4.13 %
Leucine 5.50 %
Lysine 4.0 %
Methionine 2.17 %
Phenylalanine 3.95 %
Threonine 4.17 %
Tryptophan 1.13 %
Valines 6.0 %
Non-essential amino acids
Alanine 5.82 %
Arginine 5.98 %
Cystine 0.67 %
Promote growth of body, develop brain cells, keep
balance of nitrogen, synthesize other essential amino
acids, prevent the deterioration of nervous system and
develop IQ
Activate functions of upper brain and stimulate body
functions
Create antibody and immunity replenish liver texture,
improve cell growth and repair damage cells
Help to digest fat improve health and reduce stress
Improve functions of thyroid gland to activate body
mechanism, being hormone consisted of iodine to
activate body to be healthier, better emotion and
memory, improve hair growth to be stronger, and also
moisturize dry skin along with reduce inflammation
from sunburn
Contribute function of digestive system, especially
intestine for more efficient absorption
Support body to take vitamin B, good sleep and
reduce stress
Activate the brain capacity, combine the muscle
interaction, reduce muscle pain or inflamed wound
and also promote emotional relaxing
Amino acids, which can be synthesized by our body,
such as enzyme, protein, hormone and chemical
substances in brain
Help to strengthen cell membrane, activate bone
marrow, originate red blood cells, reduce risk of
anemia, build up immune response and burn down
sugar and organic acids in body
Important to male sexual ability because sperm
consists of 80 % arginine; moreover, help to detoxify
blood in body
Help to improve pancreas, reduce allergic and
problem from starvation
Glutamic acid 8.94 %
Glycine 3.46 %
Histidine 1.08 %
Proline 2.97 %
Serine 4.0%
Tyrosine 4.60%
One of major energy of brain cells like glucose,
control alcohol level in body and brain health
Help to raise energy and oxygen in body cells
Improve functions of nervous system, especially the
organs related to the listening ability
Being the precursor of glutamic acid
Serve the capacity of brain cell membrane and protect
nerve fibers
Slow down cell growth and regulate the hunger
feeling in Hypothalamus gland of lower brain
Summary report of researches and testing results related to spirulina
According to “ The Secrets of Spirulina Medical Discoveries of Japan Doctor” by Christopher
Hills, Ph.D., D.Sc. (Translated paper Volume No. 105 of the National Research Commission Office, in the
field of Agriculture and Biology)
Research group
Research topic
Research / testing method
Result of research / testing
1. Dr. Takaya
Takuishi, M.D.,
Ph.D., National
Medical and Dental
Science University,
Tokyo, 1977
2. Minoru Tanaka,
Kyoto Medical
Science University
Spirulina and the
reduction of
sugar level in
blood
Spirulina was given to the
serious diabetes patients by
taking 7 tablets after meal, 3
times a day simultaneously with
strictly
control
of
food
consumption for 60 days.
Spirulina was taken by 2
inflamed pancreatic patients
which the former was vomited,
had stomachache on the upper
part and continuously diarrhea
for a year. The latter patient
was seriously felt stomachache
on the upper part, sometimes
diarrhea and had backache at
least 2 times a week. The
treatment had done by giving
the patients to take spirulina 21
tablets a day.
Spirulina was supplied with
ophthalmic medicine to the
optic patients, for example,
cataract, bleeding at retina, etc
by taking 10 tablets after meal,
morning and evening time. In
case of serious symptom, take
10 tablets after 3 meals.
The sugar level in almost patients
was significantly reduced to
normal level.
Spirulina and
treatment of
pancreatitis
3. Yoshida Yamasaki, Spirulina and
M.D., Medical and
optic problems
Dental Science
University, Tokyo,
Director of Kazuo
Optic Hospital,
Yamasaki, 1966
These two patients were gradually
recovered. Diarrhea in the first
patients was reduced within 2
weeks and no vomiting at the end
of 5th week. The stomachache in
the second patients was recovered
within 3 weeks but still be pain
sometimes and then after 6 weeks,
stomachache
was
totally
recovered.
90 % from 480 patients were
recovered and had better sight.
Blood pressure and clogged blood
vessel were reduced to normal.
Research group
Research topic
4. Dr. Seshadri of
Marugap, Cheltar
Center, Madras, India
Spirulina and
optic problems
5. Dr. Iwao Tanabe,
Psychologist and
intern doctor,
Denensofu Nursing
Home
6. Prof. Tomogishi
Sakai, Ph.D., Intern
doctor and anatomist
of Eastern Japan
University
7. Nobusu Ijima,
Professor in Saint
Marry Anne Medical
Science University
8. Japan
Spirulina and
treatment of hair
loss
9. Dr. Christopher
Hill, Ph.D.,
University of the
Trees
10. Toru Matsui,
Japanese Philosopher
Safety of
spirulina
Spirulina and
treatment of
esophageal and
gastropathy
Spirulina and
disposal of
alcohol in the
body
Spirulina and
anemia
Safety of
spirulina
Research / testing method
Result of research / testing
Spirulina was taken by preschool children who suffering
from night blindness caused by
lacking of vitamin A (total
5,000 people within 1 year)
Spirulina was brought to the
patients 6 tablets a day.
The optic problem was reduced
from 10-80 % of total children.
Spirulina was consumed by 5
patients of gastropathy with 5
tablets per meal, preferable
simultaneously eat with food
for 3 meals.
Spirulina was given to the
subjected groups approximately
4-5 tablets before drinking.
Most of the patients were
recovered from stomachache.
Spirulina was taken by 8 female
patients who had less red blood
cells, 8 tablets after 3 meals for
30 days
Dr. Hill and his 50 students had
starved and eaten only spirulina
for 30-107 days
Red blood cell production in all
patients was increased from 10.9
to 13.2, which is considered as the
normal level.
All of them did not have any
problem or side effects after
consuming.
The symptom was gradually
recovered within 9 weeks, and the
newborn hair became blacken in
the 10th week.
No hangover
drinking.
remained
after
Toru Matsui had not eaten any Toru Matsui still alive without any
food, except spirulina and other side effect.
types of algae for over 15 years.
The Spirulina Health Library contains over 200 published scientific references covering
35 years of international researches. It is solely for education. It is not intended s medical
advice or as a guide for self-treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for
diagnosis or treatment of any disease or medical condition.
Anti-viral Studies
• Inhibition of HIV-1 replication by an aqueous extract of spirulina (Arthrospira paltensis)
Ayehunie S.1, Belay A.2, Hu Y.1, Baba T.1,3, Ruprecht R.1
1
Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston,
MA, USA.
2
Earthrise Farms, Calipatria, CA, USA.
Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.
Water extract of spirulina strain Platensis (Arthrospira platensis) inhibits HIV-1 replication in
human derived T-cells and in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. A concentration of 5-10
mcg/mi was found to reduce viral production and/or syncytium formulation of about 50 %, and a
concentration of 100 mcg/ml show a 90-100 % inhibition without cytotoxicity. The 50 % inhibitory
concentration (IC50) for cell growth was computed to be between 2-6.5 mg/ml depending on the cell
types used; the therapeutic index was >100. The extract also blocked Rauscher murine leukemia virus
(RL V)-induced plaque by 95 % at concentrations ranging from 75-150 mcg/ml. The 50 % reduction in
plaque formation (50 % effective concentration or EC50) was at a concentration of 9-30 mcg/ml. The
extract directly inactivated HIV-1 infectivity when preincubated with virus prior to addition with human
T-cell lines at similar inhibitory concentrations.
3
• An extract from spirulina is a selective inhibitor of Herpes Simplex virus type 1 penetration into
Hela cells
Hayashi et al. 1993. Pub. in Phytotherapy Research, Vol. 7, p. 76-80, Japan
The water-soluble extract of spirulina achieved a dose-dependent inhibition of the replication of
Herpes Simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in Hela cells within the concentration ranges of 0.08-50 mg/ml.
This extract proved to have no virucidal activity and did not interfere with adsorption to host cells.
However, the extract affected to viral penetration in a dose-dependent manner. At 1 mg/ml the extract
was found to inhibit virus-specific protein synthesis without suppressing host cell protein synthesis if
added to the cells 3 hours before hamsters at doses of 100 and 500 mg/kg a day.
• AIDS antiviral sulfolipids from cyanobacteria (blue green algae)
K. Gustafson et al. August 16, 1989. Pub. in journal of the National Cancer Institute, Vol. 81(16) p.
1254, USA.
Sulfoglycolipids from blue green algae exhibit strong antiviral properties. Helper T-cells exposed
to blue green algae sulfoglycolipids were protected from HIV-1 infection in vitro studies.
Beta-carotene, Cancer Prevention and Health Improvement
• Bioavailability of spirulina carotenes in pre-school children
V. Annapurna et al. 1991. National Institute of Nutrition, Vol. 10, p. 145-151, India.
The bioavailability of total carotenes and beta-carotene from spirulina was examined in apparently
healthy preschool children and found to be comparable to those value reported for other plant sources
like leafy vegetables and carrots. The study also showed spirulina is a good source of vitamin A, as there
was a significant increase in serum retinal levels. Researchers concluded that spirulina can be used as a
source of vitamin A for dietary supplement, is relatively inexpensive, has higher beta-carotene than any
other plant sources and can be cultivated throughout the year.
• Inhibition of experimental oral carcinogenesis by topical beta-carotene
Schwartz et al. 1986. Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Pub. In Carcinogenesis, May 1986, Vol. 7
(5), p. 711-715, USA.
Beta-carotene was found to significantly inhibit the formation of squamous cell carcinoma of
hamster buccal pouch when a solution was applied topically three times weekly for 22 weeks in an
experiment with 4 hamsters. In a second experiment with 80 hamsters, beta-carotene was found to
inhibit oral carcinogenesis in an initiation-promotion hamsters buccal pouch system. Beta-carotene
inhibited both initiation and promotion of carcinogenesis.
Cholesterol Reduction
• Cholesterol lowering effect of spirulina
N. Nayaka et al. 1988. Tokai University. Pub. In Nutrition Reports Int’l, Vol. 37, No. 6, p. 1329-1337,
Japan.
Thirty healthy men with high cholesterol, mild hypertension and hyperlipidemia showed lower
serum cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL (undesirable fat) levels after eating spirulina for eight weeks.
These men did not change their diet, except adding spirulina. No adverse effects were noted. Group A
consumed 4.2 grams daily for eight weeks. Total serum cholesterol dropped a significant 4.5 % within 4
weeks from 244 to 233. Group B consumed spirulina for four weeks, then stopped. Serum cholesterol
levels decreased, then returned to initial level. Researchers concluded spirulina did lower serum
cholesterol and was likely to have a favorable effect on alleviating heart disease since the arterioscelosis
index improved.
• Clinical and biochemical evaluations of spirulina with regard to its application in the treatment of
obesity
E. W. Becker et al. 1986. Inst. Chem. Pfanz. Pub. In Nutrition Reports Int’l, Vol. 33, No. 4, p. 565,
Germany.
• The effect of spirulina on reduction of serum cholesterol
N. Nayaka et al. 1986. Tokai University. Pub. In Progress in Medicine, Vol. 36, No. 11, Japan.
• Current knowledge on potential health benefits of spirulina
Amha Belay and Yoshimical Ota 1993. Pub. in Journal of Applied Phycology, Vol. 5, p. 235-241, USA.
Spirulina is a microscopic algae, produced commercially and sold as a food supplement around the
world. Until recently, interest in spirulina was mainly in its nutritive value. This is a critical review of
data on therapeutic effects of spirulina, ranging from reduction of cholesterol and cancer to enhancing
the immune system, increasing intestinal lactobacilli, reducing nephrotoxicity by heavy metals and drugs
as well as radiation protection.
• Spirulina: a model for micro algae as human food
Alan Jassby 1988. In Algae and Human Affairs. Edited by Lembi and Waaland. Pub. By Cambridge
University Press, Cambridge, UK.
This is an evaluation of the food potential of micro algae using proven technology. Numerous
examples of traditional use of inland micro algae are cited from more than 15 countries. The nutritional
aspects of spirulina stand out. Spirulina’s safety for human consumption, food applications, economics
and environmental aspects, world spirulina production, production costs and therapeutic applications are
reviewed. How micro algae can address world hunger problems is addresses with mention of harvesting
wild algae and village scale production systems.
• Enhancement of antibody production in mice by dietary spirulina
Hayashi et al. June 1994. Kagawa Nutrition University, Japan. Pub. In Journal of Nutrition Science and
Vitaminology, Japan.
Mice fed a spirulina diet showed increased numbers of spleenic antibody-producing cells in the
primary immune response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC). However, immunoglobulin G (IgE)antibody production in the secondary immune response was hardly affected. The percentage of
phagocytotic cells in peritoneal macrophages from the mice fed spirulina diet, as well as the
proliferation of spleen cells, was significantly increased. Addition of hot-water extract of spirulina
(SHW) to an in vitro culture of spleen cells markedly increased proliferation these cells, whereas culture
of thymus cells was scarcely affected. The spirulina extract also significantly enhanced interleukin-1
(IL-1) production from peritoneal macrophages. Addition to the in vitro spleen cell culture of SHW as
well as the supernatant of macrophages stimulated with SHW resulted in enhancement of antibody
production that is an increase of the number of PFC. These results suggest that spirulina enhances the
immune response, particularly the primary response, by stimulating functions, phagocytosis and IL-1
production.
• Immunostimulating activity of lipopolysaccharides from blue green algae
L. Besednova et al. 1979. Pub in Zhurnal Mikrobiologii, Immunobiologii, Vol. 56 (12), p. 75-79,
Russia.
The whole cells of blue green algae and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) isolated from these cells were
shown to stimulate the production of microglobulin antibodies in rabbits. The macro- and microphage
indices in rabbits increased significantly after the injection of LPS isolated from blue green algae 24-48
hrs before injecting the animals with a virulent Y. pseudotuberculosis strain. Besides, the inhibiting
action of this strain on the migration of phagocytes to the site of infection was abolished immediately
after the injection. The use of the indirect hemaglutination test allow to provide the absence of close
antigenic interrelations between blue green algae and the following organisms: Spirulina platensis,
Microcystis aeruginosa, Phormidium africanum and P. uniccinatum.
• Study on effect and mechanism of polysaccharides of spirulina on body immune function
improvement
G. Baojiang et al. April 1994. South China Normal University. Pub. In Proceed of Second Asia Pacific
Conference on Algal Biotechnology, University of Malaysia, p. 33-38, China.
Polysaccharides of spirulina, at the dosage of 150-300 mg/kg, by injection or taking orally, can
increase the phagocyte percentage index of abdominal macrophage, the percentage of T-lymphocyte and
haemolysin content in the peripheral blood of mouse. These results demonstrate polysaccharides can
improve both the nonspecific function of cellular immunity and the specific hormonal immunity. The
mechanism seems related to fact that polysaccharides can enhance reproductive ability of marrowcyte,
growth of thymus and spleen, biosynthesis of serum protein, and that polysaccharide can eliminate the
inhibition effect of inhibitive circular phosphamide on immune system of body.
• Clinical experiences of administration of spirulina to patients with hypo chronic anemia
T. Takeuchi et al. 1978. Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan.
Eight women had been limiting their meals to stay thin and were showing hypo chronic anemialower than normal blood hemoglobin content. They took four grams of spirulina after each meal. After
30 days blood hemoglobin content increased 21 % from 10.9 to 13.2, a satisfactory level, no longer
considered anemic.
Kidney Detoxification
• Effect of spirulina on the renal toxicity induced by inorganic mercury and cisplatin
H. Fukino et al. 1990. Pub. In Eisei Kagaku, Vol. 36 (5), 1990. Japan.
Kidney toxicity caused by mercury was suppressed by feeding spirulina to rats. A water-soluble
extract of spirulina, containing phycocyanin, the natural blue pigment, was examined. Renal (kidney)
toxicity in rats caused by para-aminophenal (pain reliever) and cisplatin (anti-cancer) was significantly
reduced by the phycocyanin extract of spirulina. Researchers concluded that phycocyanin plays a major
role in the protective effect of spirulina against renal failure caused by mercury and pharmaceutical
drugs, and that spirulina might be applicable to the general renal disfunction.
• Effectiveness of spirulina algae as food for children with protein-energy malnutrition in a tropical
environment
P. Bucaille 1990. University Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.
• The study on curative effect of zinc containing spirulina for zinc deficient children
Yonghuang et al. 1994. Capital Medical College, Beijing. Presented at 5th Int’l Phycological Congress,
Qingdao, June 1994, China.
Spirulina with high zinc content may be twice as effective as a zinc supplement in curing zinc
deficiency in children. The effective dose of zinc from spirulina was 2 to 4 times less than the zinc from
a common supplement, zinc sulfate. More than two times the children were cured with high zinc
spirulina. One hundred children were diagnosed as suffering from zinc deficiency. For a three-month
period, 50 children were given zinc sulfate and 50 were given spirulina tablets. Doctors concluded
spirulina’s effect was much better than zinc sulfate. Spirulina had no side effects and was easy to
administer for long periods of time. They theorized that high zinc spirulina had many bioactive and
nutritious substances, which improved mineral absorption, general health and the immune system.
Polysaccharides and Immune System Improvement
• Calcium spirulina, an inhibitor of enveloped virus replication, from a blue green algae spirulina
Hayashi et al. 1996. Pub. In Journal of Natural Products, Vol. 59, p. 83-87. Japan.
Bioactivity is directed from fractionation of a hot water extract of blue green algae.
Spirulina strain platensis led to the isolation of a novel sulfated polysaccharide named calcium spirulina
(Ca-SP) as an antiviral principle. This polysaccharide was composed of rhamnose, ribose, mannose,
fructose, galactose, xylose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, sulfate and calcium. Ca-SP was found to
inhibit the replication of several enveloped viruses, including Herpes Simplex virus type 1, human
cytomegalovirus, measles virus, mump virus, influenza A virus and HIV-1. It was revealed that Ca-SP
selectively inhibited the penetration of virus into host cells. Retention of molecular conformation of
calcium ion with sulfate groups was suggested to be indispensable to its antiviral effect.
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