A Comparison of the Nutritive values and health benefits of Spirulina

by Margie Frayne - Herbs for Birds

  • Spirulina was used as a food source by the Aztecs in Mexico (Between 1248-1521). Then there was a break in its use for 500 years. Rediscovered in late 1950's it has only been commercially produced and promoted as a food source since 1970
  • Spirulina is neither a plant nor an animal but belongs to the algae family. Correctly classed as a cyanobacterium - it is a blue-green algae
  • There are 2 varieties of spirulina, namely: Arthrospira plantensis; Arthrospira maxima
  • It grows in fresh water ponds and lakes with a high alkaline salt content, usually in tropical regions. Some Spirulina is cultivated under controlled conditions in ponds, while others are cultivated in laboratories
  • Spirulina is a free floating filamentous substance

    Health Benefits

  • There are many references to the fact that there is insufficient scientific evidence which irrefutably proves that Spirulina has specific health benefits, yet many health experts declare that it is the best plant based food source
  • Spirulina contains the following major minerals, namely, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc
  • Spirulina contains trace elements chromium, copper, selenium
  • Spirulina contains Vitamin A, B's, C, E, K
  • The Vit B 12 content is high but occurs in a form that cannot be absorbed by the body
  • Spirulina contains essential fatty acids
  • It contains various anti-oxidants - beta-carotene, chlorophyll, and others
  • It is claimed to have a high protein content but other information suggests a maximum of 6 gm per 100gm. (It does not contain any more protein than in milk and costs 30 times more) (please see note about proteins content of plant foods below)
  • It contains phycocyanin, a blue pigment which has shown an increased survival rate of mice with cancer
  • Spirulina is claimed to enhance the body's cleansing and detox function; to support good cardio-vascular & cholesterol health; to strengthen the immune system; improve gastro-intestinal health; reduce the risk of cancer, and promote longevity
  • It is an expensive food source and natural supplement

    Contra-indications

  • It is possible to develop an allergy to Spirulina
  • It is difficult for the body to break down Spirulina
  • Taking Spirulina for any length of time can cause headaches, muscle pain, excessive sweating, insomnia, constipation, excessive gas / flatulence, nausea, and feverishness
  • It can cause dehydration if insufficient water is taken in on a daily basis
  • It has been observed that the use of Spirulina can adversely affect the health of those with auto-immune diseases

    Safety concerns

  • Spirulina grown in rivers and water courses can be contaminated by heavy metals and agricultural chemicals and toxins
  • Most of the world's open-pond cultivation of Spirulina occurs in poorer countries across the world - Thailand, India, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Burma, Chile. One could be forgiven if one doubts that strict health and safety regulations are in force
  • Spirulina that is not cultivated under controlled conditions can be contaminated by a bacteria which produces microcystins which is a substance which is toxic to the liver. It builds up in the body and affects the liver and nervous system, especially if taken over a long period of time
  • Some articles suggest that unscrupulous growers do not clean their harvest correctly and the crop can be contaminated with dead insects & plant matter

    Meridian Herbs does not stock Spirulina

    Meridian Herbs
    PO Box 2643, Brits, 0250 E 239 Long street, Mamogalieskraal, Brits
    Cell: 082 375 0918 Fax: 086 653 2159 margie@meridianherbs.co.za
    Copyright © 2014 Meridian Herbs, All rights reserved.
    Margie Frayne

    Notice : 'Herbs for Birds' herbal products are stocked by:
    'The Parrot Inn' in Old Johannesburg Road, Centurion - 083-449-1601
    'Kollonade Pet Shop' at the Kollonade Mall, Montana - 012-548-7551
    'Feeds & Feeders' in Pretoria North - 012-542-3204
    'Essential Herbal Products', Durban - 083-409-8309

    This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is intended to be educational and thought provoking. Neither Meridian Herbs, or any of its officers, director, employees, or representatives will be liable for any direct or indirect, consequential or incidental damages arising from any information contained herein. The limitation of liability is comprehensive and applies to damage of any kind.