neuroprotectiveEVIDENCEBUSOTC

Spirulina

aka Arthrospira platensis

Blue-green microalgae used as nutritional supplement. High protein, complete amino acids, phycocyanin antioxidant.

Dose range1000–5000mg

Half-life—h

Onset—min

Safety4/5medium evidence base

Mechanism of action

Provides complete protein with all essential amino acids. Phycocyanin (the blue pigment) has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and various minerals. Chlorophyll supports detoxification pathways. The combined nutritional density makes spirulina a 'superfood' but most effects are nutritional rather than pharmacological.

History

Spirulina has been consumed by Aztec populations from Lake Texcoco and African populations from Lake Chad for centuries. Modern commercial cultivation began in the 1970s. NASA has investigated it as a potential space-mission food due to nutritional density. Multiple small RCTs support various claims; the evidence base is moderate. Unscheduled globally.

Benefits

Antioxidant support
EVIDENCEB
Multiple trials.
Cholesterol reduction
EVIDENCEB
Multiple RCTs.
Athletic performance
EVIDENCEB
Kalafati 2010.

Side effects

Heavy metal contamination (sourced poorly)uncommonmoderate
Mild GI upsetraremild

Cited research

Spirulina for cholesterol: meta-analysis (Serban)2016
PMID 26433766 ↗
Spirulina for exercise performance (Kalafati)2010
PMID 20010119 ↗
Spirulina nutritional and therapeutic uses review (Karkos)2011
PMID 21149833 ↗

Where to buy

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Vendor	Product	Size	Price	Per unit
Nootropics DepotFeatured 4.8	Spirulina — Nootropics Depot	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad
Life Extension 4.3	Spirulina — Life Extension	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad
Double Wood Supplements 4.4	Spirulina — Double Wood	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad
Amazon Marketplace 3.5	Spirulina — Amazon	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad

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