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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 • • • 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 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 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. Contact us: Head Office: Advanced Spirulina Biotechnology Company Limited 444 Olympiathai Tower, 10th & 19th Floor Ratchadapisek Road, Samsennok, Huaykwang, Bangkok 10310, Thailand. 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