S.N.D college of pharmacy, Yeola
Because of its outstanding nutritional composition, the blue-green microalga spirulina, from the genus Arthrospira, has become a popular green superfood around the globe. Spirulina is a popular dietary supplement due to its high vitamin, mineral, and protein content. Since it has no toxicity, has anti-cancer, antiviral, and immunological properties, and is also a potent antioxidant, it is seen as a fantastic food. The functions of Spirulina have changed drastically in response to stressful situations. It gained widespread popularity after NASA successfully used it as a dietary supplement for astronauts during space missions. Its anti-inflammatory properties allow it to control immunological processes by preventing mast cells from producing histamine. Because of its sustainable, environmentally friendly, and extremely nutritious biomass, Spirulina occupies the intersection of food and medicine, making it a valuable instrument in advancing human health and developing novel therapies. Because Spirulina is able to grow in a variety of harsh environments, its biochemical composition and medicinal benefits are significantly affected. It is a popular option for sustainable food and health solutions because it is simple to cultivate in aquatic environments and produces a lot of macro- and micronutrients. The purpose of this review is to lay a solid scientific groundwork for the ongoing research and application of Spirulina in the areas of nutrition, medicine, and public health.
Microalgae are a large and polyphyletic group of O2-evolving photosynthetic microorganisms, mostly aquatic, comprising prokaryotic cyanobacteria and eukaryotic members [1]. Some Mexicans and Africans consume spirulina, a planktonic blue-green alga, as a traditional meal. They are one of the earliest forms of life. This alga has been growing in warm, alkaline volcanic lakes on Earth for the past 3.5 billion years, and its cellular structure is spiral. The form is similar to that of a basic prokaryote. The two most often utilized species of Spirulina for dietary supplements are Spirulina platensis (S. platensis) and Spirulina maxima. This alga may be found in a variety of locations throughout the globe and has a long history of usage as a food source [2]. Due to its high nutritional value and variety, spirulina has gained widespread recognition as a superfood. It is the most nutrient-dense and concentrated food available. a complete food source that can be found in nature. Spirulina is sold globally as a food supplement or as a key component in functional foods and drinks. Its health advantages for users in Europe, North America, sections of Asia, and Oceania have helped it gain widespread popularity. The high concentration of spirulina Its nutritional value makes it a great dietary supplement for individuals of all ages and lifestyles [3]. Due to its potential in the worldwide market, commercial companies are increasingly interested in S. platensis. Some species have a really unique nutritional profile that is quite high. Additionally, the bioavailability of several nutrients is quite high, and Spirulina species have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. Spirulina preparations aid in maintaining resident flora. because it decreases possible issues from opportunistic infections like E. coli and Candida albicans due to the intestinal micro flora, notably Lactobacillus and Bifidus [4]. Spirulina is frequently found in aquatic habitats such lakes, ponds, and tanks. It is one of the first photosynthetic organisms in nature that can use light to create its own food. since ancient times, tribes in Africa that live near Lake Chad have used spirulina as a dietary staple because of its direct involvement in complicated metabolic pathways. The main species of The phytoplankton in the lake is Spirulina platensis. In Mexico, the algae Spirulina was consumed under the name "Tecuitlatl" [5]. The best pH range for spirulina growth is between 9 and 11, which reduces the risk of contamination from other microorganisms [6]. Through wastewater recycling and energy conservation, spirulina has the potential to contribute significantly to human and animal nutrition as well as environmental protection. Spirulina is a good source of protein, containing 60–70% of it. in the diets of malnourished poor children in developing nations, vitamins and minerals are utilized as a protein supplement. One gram of Spirulina protein is equivalent to one kilogram of mixed veggies. The amino acid makeup of Spirulina protein is among the best in the plant kingdom, surpassing that of soybeans [7]. In Cyanobacteria, the light harvesting pigments include chlorlphyll-a, carotenoids and phycobiliproteins. The later are proteins with linear tetrapyrrole prosthetic groups called according to their structure: phycocyanin, phycoerythrin and allophycocyanin [8].
Fig 1. Spirulina algae
MORPHOLOGY:
The blue-green non-heterocystous filaments, which are made up of vegetative cells that divide by binary fission in a single plane, have clearly visible transverse cross-walls under light microscopy. exhibit gliding mobility and are solitary and free floating. The trichomes, which are covered by a thin sheath, have mild constrictions at cross-walls. and with tips that are only moderately or not at all attenuated [9] [10]. The regular coiling of Spirulina's trichomes is a defining characteristic. Its helical threads may transform into aberrant forms under specific temperature and pressure circumstances, such as Although they are seen as a permanent degeneration that cannot be reversed, the linear filaments of Spirulina platensis have unevenly curved and even linear forms. may spontaneously revert to the helical form with the same morphology as the original filaments. The physiological, biochemical, and ultra-structural properties of linear filaments differ from those of the original filaments, but are identical for the reverted and original filaments [11].
Ultra-Structure:
Spirulina is a prokaryotic organism with fibers of DNA region, ribosome, capsule, pluri- stratified cell wall, and photosynthetic system. The cell wall is composed of four- membered layers: L1, L2, L3, and L4 [12].
Plant Profile:
Kingdom: Bacteria
Covolie Smith
Subkingdom: Negibacteria
Domain: Bacteria
Phylum: Cyanobacteria
Class: Cyanophyceae
Order: Nostocales
Family: Oscillatoriaceae
Genus: Spirulina Turpin
Ex Gomant 1893 Arthrospira
Species: Platensis, Maxima
Scientific Name: Arthrospira
Vernacular Name: Hindi – Shaiival, Marathi – Sheva [62].
Life Cycle:
There are three fundamental stages: Trichomes fragmentation, hormogonia cells enlargement and maturation processes, and trichome elongation. Then this mature trichomes get divided into filaments or hormogonia, cells in the hormogonias gets increased by binary fission, grows lengthwise and takes their helical form [13].
Fig 2. life cycle of spirulina
Cultivation:
The growing awareness of importance Of natural colours especially food and cosmetic Colourants has placed great demand on biological Sources of natural colours. Cyanobacteria and algae Possess a wide range of colored components Including carotenoids, chlorophyll and Phycobiliproteins [14]. The blue green microalga spirulina is a fantastic source of iron and other minerals, beta-carotene, B vitamins, and proteins. It's a marvel. food particularly for those who are malnourished. As a result, its production is promoted even at the local level in developing nations, which are the most affected. of persistent malnutrition. Spirulina also demonstrates that it is a good source of economy for them. In addition to being used in, spirulina is a healthy protein food supplement. Its commercial production is gradually gaining popularity with many farmers in India, especially in Tamil Nadu, and it is used in the production of several medications and cosmetics. Nadu. In several areas that are severely impacted by chronic malnutrition, spirulina is farmed for both commercial and household usage. as well as various deficiency illnesses. It is really beneficial to cultivate spirulina at the domestic household level [15] [16].
Cultivation of Spirulina for personal consumption:
A basin can be used to grow Spirulina Platensis for one's own consumption. According to factors, there are several methods for creating an adequate basin. Local environment: low walls, hard clay, and no plastic coverings. Generally speaking, it's helpful to build a greenhouse or, at the very least, a roof on it. to minimize the danger of contamination, the basin should be protected from the elements. The roof may be constructed of white or clear plastic, or other methods exist that allow for the partial passage of light. In order to grow Spirulina, it is necessary to replicate the intimate cultural medium. The micro-algae grows spontaneously in the culture medium, which is a regulated salt solution in water that provides the Spirulina with all the essential chemical components. crucial to its growth. The culture medium should have a pH between 8.0 and 11, which is considered basic [17].
The whole process consists of eight steps (consisting harvesting, processing and packing):
1) Filtration and cleaning: A nylon filter at the entrance of the water pond is needed.
2) Pre-concentration: To acquire algal biomass that has been washed to lower its salt concentration.
3) Concentration: In order to eliminate as much interstitial water as possible (which is situated between the filaments).
4) Neutralization: Adding an acid solution to neutralize the biomass.
5) Disintegration: To use a grinder to break down trichomes.
6) Dehydration by spray-drying: This activity is of significant economic value since it accounts for roughly 20 to 30% of the manufacturing expenses.
7) Packing: In order to prevent hygroscopic activity on the dry spirulina, it is typically stored in sealed plastic bags.
8) Storage: To prevent the pigments of Spirulina from degrading, it is kept in clean, dry, dark, pest-free, and sanitary storage rooms [18] [19].
Phytonutrients:
Due to its rich nutritional content, microscopic blue-green algae, sometimes referred to as nature's perfect food, are one of the most easily digested and quickly absorbed. one of the best dietary sources of protein, chlorophyll, and beta-carotene, as well as protein sources. It also has the advantages of vital vitamins and minerals. minerals from a complete diet. Phytonutrients in spirulina are very helpful for the human body because they boost the immune system. Phytonutrients are found in whole foods. Spirulina has unique chemical components that have varied ability to promote good health in people. Protein makes up around 60% (51-71%) of dry Spirulina [20]. Approximately sixty percent of spirulina is comprised of easily digestible protein, which includes all of the necessary amino acids; it has a higher beta-carotene content than any other complete food; it It is the finest complete food source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), and it is high in enzymes, chlorophyll, trace elements, minerals, and B vitamins. high in additional nutrients like carotenoids, glycolipids, sulfolipids, superoxide dismutase, RNA, DNA, and phycocyanin [3].
Table 1: composition of phytonutrients of Spirulina [21]
|
Phytonutrients |
Amount |
|
Alpha-carotene |
Traces |
|
Xanthophylls |
1000 mg |
|
Cryptoxanthin |
556 mg |
|
Echinenone |
439 mg |
|
Zeaxanthin |
316 mg |
|
Leutin |
289 mg |
|
Beta-carotene 9-cis |
1.60 mg |
|
Beta-carotene 13-cis |
0.51 mg |
|
Beta-carotene 15-cis |
0.12 mg |
|
Beta-carotene all-trans |
7.80 mg |
|
Chlorophyll |
23.70 mg |
|
Total carotenoids |
14 mg |
|
Phycocyanin |
333 mg |
|
Superoxide dismutase |
2040 units |
Therapeutic Applications:
Cancer preventive potential:
Despite the lack of extensive human clinical studies, several studies have demonstrated Spirulina's potential to reduce tumors and prevent carcinogenesis. in animal models. The first evidence of a combination of Spirulina and Dunaliella microalgae was published by Harvard University's School of Dental Medicine researchers in 1987. In rodents, extracts caused tumors in the mouth to recede. Thirty percent of the animals that received the Spirulina and In the control group, there was no tumor regression, but in the other 70% of the animals, the tumor partially regressed in response to the Dunaliella extract [22]. After tumor regression and also tumor prevention had been demonstrated by microalgae in animal models, a human clinical trial was conducted on pre-cancerous lesions in 1995. This study was conducted on pure Spirulina as compared to the previous animal trials which employed a combination of two species of microalgae. Subjects in the treatment group consumed a relatively low dose of Spirulina of 1 g per day for 12 months. C Current dosages recommended for commercially sold Spirulina products are generally 1.5 g to as much as 5 g per day) This study was designed to examine the chemo-preventive activity of Spirulina in reversing oral leukoplakia in subjects who chewed tobacco. The results of this study were quite promising: Complete regression of pre-cancerous oral lesions were seen in 45% of the 44 subjects consuming Spirulina, while only 7% of the 43 members of the placebo group experienced complete regression. Interestingly, within one year of discontinuing Spirulina supplementation, 9 out of 20 subjects who had previously been found to be in complete regression had developed recurrent lesions [23]. Numerous research have demonstrated that Spirulina or its extracts may prevent or suppress cancers in humans and animals. In vitro studies indicate that the distinct polysaccharides Spirulina improves the enzyme activity in the cell nucleus as well as the synthesis of DNA repair [24]. In an in vitro study, sulphated polysaccharides (Ca-Sp) appear to inhibit tumor invasion and metastasis of B16-BL-6 melanoma. This anti- metastasis activity is attributed to blocking the adhesion and migration of tumor cells to laminin substrate and of the heparanase activity [25]. The Spirulina is shown to possess a modulatory effect on hepatic carcinogen metabolizing e properties enzymes that may involve in anti-tumor [26].
Antiviral properties:
Without a doubt, a drug, dietary supplement, or food that has been shown to have antiviral effects and also improve the immune system's reaction. would be of significant clinical interest. Based on the available evidence, Spirulina demonstrates tremendous promise in both of these connected domains of disease resistance. The nutrients in Spirulina continue to be crucial to its antiviral activity. In 1996, Japanese scientists discovered a sulfated polysaccharide. They called this chemical Calcium Spirulan. It was discovered in Spirulina and utilized in antiviral agent research. In the 1990s, these scientists published two papers proving that Calcium Spirulan works well against a wide range of viruses. For example, Calcium Spirulan suppressed the replication of enveloped viruses like human cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex type 1, and others. Measles, mumps, influenza A, and HIV-1. Calcium Spirulan selectively blocked the virus's entry into host cells [27]. All of the bio-chemicals necessary to create a strong immune system, which also combats free radicals, are found in the makeup of spirulina. Compounds derived from Arthrospira have Cyanobacterial extracts have antimutagenic and inhibitory effects against a variety of viruses, including HIV-1, HSV-1, HSV-2, HCMV, influenza type A, measles, and others. has an anticancer impact and can stop the growth and spread of tumors, as well as the proliferation or metastasis of cancer cells [28]. According to studies, Spirulina platensis reduces HIV-I replication in Langerhans cells (LC), peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and human T-cell lines. Between 50 and 500 µg/mL of extract concentration was used in the experiment. In PBMCs, 0.3 and 1.2 g/ml of a platensis extracts decreased viral replication by around 50%. Platensis extracts exhibit antiretroviral effects, which might have therapeutic applications [29]. Spirulina exhibits a potent broad-spectrum anti- viral activity. It protects human and monkey cells from viral infection in cell culture [30]. Hamsters treated with water-soluble extract of Spirulina showed better recovery rates when infected with an otherwise lethal herpes virus. Spirulina inhibits herpes virus infection at the initial stage of viral cycle [31] Allophycocyanin neutralizes the enterovirus 71 induced cytoplasmic effects in both human rhabdomyosarcoma cells and in African green monkey cells [32]. Spirulina extract can inhibit HIV-1 replication in human derived T-cell lines and in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells [33].
Immuno-modulatory effect:
Spirulina facilitates production of antibody, increases activated peritoneal macrophages, and induces growth of spleen cells in response to Concavalin A (Con A). Production of IL- 1 and antibody was enhanced by the addition of the Spirulina extract to the cultured spleen cells [30]. The initial target cells for Spirulina are macrophages. In myeloid cells, Spirulina exhibits an additive effect on Toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated cytokine production pathways. Spirulina glycolipids serve as Toll ligands for stimulation of TLR2 & 4 together with bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) cell wall skeleton [34]. In a significant contrast to its positive role on immune system, the Spirulina products have be shown to exacerbate pre-existing autoimmune disease or precipitate autoimmune disease in persons genetically predisposed to such disorder [35]. It was reported that Spirulina up- regulates key cells and organs of the immune system improving their ability to function in spite of stress from environmental toxins and infectious agents. Studies on animal models documented that phycocyanin of Spirulina stimulates hematopoiesis, especially erythropoiesis by inducing erythropoetin hormone (EPO). There is also evidence that c- phycocyanin and polysaccharides of Spirulina enhance white blood cell production [36,37]. The water-soluble blue pigment phycocyanin is exclusively found in Spirulina and other types of blue-green microalgae. Phycocyanin has strong antioxidant properties and is a key component of the immune system. improving antiviral and other qualities. A recent study from Japan discovered that phycocyanin has a strong immunostimulatory effect and lowers allergic inflammation in rodents. The study's findings revealed a rise in resistance to infectious illnesses as well as a noteworthy impact on immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. The scientists came to the conclusion that phycocyanin improves biological through preserving the functions of the mucosal immune system, which provides defense against infectious illnesses, and through suppressing the antigen-specific IgE antibody, which lowers allergic inflammation [38]. Spirulina has demonstrated promising immunostimulatory effects in a variety of species in numerous pre-clinical animal experiments. In humans, mammals, chickens, and fish, Spirulina has an immunostimulatory effect. Spirulina has also been found to increase the body's defenses against infection, its ability to affect hemopoiesis, and its production of antibodies and cytokines. stimulate T and B cells, macrophages [39].
Cardiovascular benefits:
Many publications have detailed the cardiovascular advantages of Spirulina usage. A review released in 2009 cited numerous studies indicating that Spirulina (Arthrospira) may have a positive impact on the prevention of cardiovascular illnesses. Reductions in plasma lipid levels and blood pressure, particularly triacylglycerols and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, have been observed. evidence of this was seen in the oral intake of spirulina. It has also been shown that spirulina indirectly alters the levels of total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [40]. The aforementioned review is supported by a recent human experiment conducted in an open population sample. The findings demonstrated a significant decrease in total cholesterol and triacylglycerols. Additionally, the Spirulina group showed a hypolipidemic effect as systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased and HDL levels significantly increased [41]. By blocking the action of pancreatic lipase, a water extract of Spirulina may prevent dietary fat from being absorbed by the intestines [42]. The sulfated polysaccharide Sodium Spirulan significantly inhibits vascular endothelial cell proliferation [43]. Sodium Spirulan is a potent inhibitor of the proliferation of arterial smooth muscle cells [44]. Selenium-rich >phycocyanin extracted from Spirulina prevents the development of atherosclerosis [45].
Anti-inflammatory activity:
Due to the biliprotein C-phycocyanin (C-PC), spirulina has anti-inflammatory properties both in vitro and in vivo. This is shown by C-PC. It was demonstrated that it has anti- inflammatory effects by preventing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, it was discovered that it is necessary to block not only the pro-inflammatory cytokine but also the other cytokines. For spirulina to have anti-inflammatory effects, its inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygeanase-2 (COX-2) expression must be suppressed [46]. Phycocyanin, which prevented the production of leukotriene B4, an inflammatory metabolite of arachidonic acid, appeared to be the cause of the anti- inflammatory effect [47].
Antioxidant activity:
Several studies have demonstrated that Spirulina possesses significant anti-oxidant activity both in vitro and in vivo. Manoj et al [48]. reported that the alcohol extract of Spirulina inhibited lipid peroxidation more significantly (65%) than chemical antioxidants like alpha-tocopherol (35%), butylated hydroxy anisol (45%) and beta-carotene (48%). The water extract of Spirulina is also shown to have more anti-oxidant effect (76%) than gallic acid (54%) and chlorogenic acid (56%). Phycocyanin also inhibited liver microsomal lipid peroxidation. Zhi-Gang et al [49]. Using three systems that create superoxide, lipid, and hydroxyl radicals, the antioxidant properties of two fractions of a hot water extract of Spirulina were examined. Both One fraction displayed considerable ability to scavenge hydroxyl radicals (the most highly reactive oxygen radical), but no effect on superoxide radicals. to scavenge lipid radicals at low concentrations. The antioxidant activity of spirulina was evaluated against lead acetate-induced hyperlipidemia and oxidative damage in the liver and kidney of male rats. The animals were given a regular laboratory diet with or without 5% Spirulina maxima, and they underwent three treatments. Lead acetate was administered intraperitoneally in weekly doses of 25 mg each. The findings demonstrated that Spirulina blocked the significant changes in the anti- oxidant state of the kidney and liver. In contrast, Spirulina maxima was able to shift the liver's and kidney's biochemical characteristics closer to the control group's normal values [50]. The main component of Spirulina which play antioxidant role is C-phycocyanin. This study was shown on HepG2 cells (Human liver cancer cells) [51].
Cholesterol-Lowering Effects and Effects on Diabetes:
Although there is more public knowledge about it, high cholesterol is still one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular illness, which is the leading cause of death in wealthy nations. In the first human experiment, nakaya et.al. (1988) administered 4.2g/day of Spirulina to 15 male participants, but there was no notable rise in atherosclerosis. They found a large decrease in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol after eight weeks of treatment, as well as a decrease in the atherogenic effect, as measured by high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels [52]. In a more recent study, Rama moorthy and Prema kumari (1996) gave Spirulina supplements to individuals with ischemic heart disease and observed a notable improvement in blood cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and a rise in HDL cholesterol [53]. In a clinical trial, Mani et al. (2000) discovered that administering Spirulina to 15 diabetic patients resulted in a noticeable decrease in the LDL: HDL ratio. But, this was not the case. According to the study, tiny Spirulina may be advised in diabetes [54].
Chronic Arsenic Poisoning: A Randomized Trial
Millions of people in Bangladesh, India, Taiwan, and Chile are exposed to high levels of arsenic in their drinking water, putting them at risk for chronic arsenic poisoning. a poisoning that has no known cure. In order to assess the effectiveness of Spirulina extract combined with zinc in the treatment of poisoning, a double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment was carried out. therapy for chronic arsenic intoxication. Forty-one patients suffering from chronic arsenic poisoning were randomized to receive either a placebo (17 patients) or a combination of zinc and spirulina extract (210 mg). Twice daily for sixteen weeks, 19 patients received 2 mg. Each patient received arsenic-safe drinking water via the installation of a locally produced water filter in their home. The efficacy of spirulina extract coupled with zinc was assessed by comparing alterations in skin symptoms (clinical scores) and arsenic concentrations in urine and hair between groups. the placebo and Spirulina extract plus zinc-treated groups. The findings suggested that taking Spirulina extract plus zinc twice daily for sixteen weeks may be beneficial for the therapy for persistent arsenic poisoning with keratosis and melanosis [55].
Hepatotoxicity:
This study aimed to explore the potential protective effects of Spirulina fusiforms in Swiss albino mice against galactosamine-induced toxicity. The study involved assessing various parameters, including serum glutamate oxaloacetate transferase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum bilirubin (SBLN), antioxidant status, and TNF-α levels. These evaluations were then compared with the effects of the standard reference drug, Silymarin. Upon administering galactosamine, there was a significant increase in SGOT, SGPT, SBLN, and TNF-α levels in the serum, accompanied by a decrease in antioxidant status in the liver. However, when Spirulina fusiformis was administered, these parameters were positively affected and brought closer to normal levels. These findings strongly suggest that Spirulina fusiformis possesses hepatoprotective activity against galactosamine-induced toxicity in mice [56].
Detoxification of toxic minerals:
Spirulina can be used to detoxify arsenic from water and food. At the Beijing University bioactive molecules from spirulina have been extracted which could neutralize or detoxify toxic and poisonous effect of heavy metals, and which showed anti-tumor activity. Therefore, spirulina could also be used to chelate or detoxify the poisonous effect of heavy metals (minerals) from water, food and environment. Fukino could show that Spirulina successfully counteracted poisoning of the kidneys by heavy metals assisting the detoxification [57].
Adverse Effects:
Spirulina causes a sensation of sickness, an upset stomach, and minor diarrhea. Gastric overacidity and poor digestion may cause nausea and constipation. People with hypoglycemia and anaemia may experience adverse symptoms such as feeling hungry, light headed, and low on energy. The body's increased fat burning could be the cause of excitement and sleep issues. Poor digestion might cause brief and infrequent healing crises in the form of typically short-lived headaches. Depending on the degree of toxification throughout the detoxification, perspiration may fluctuate for a while [58].
Quality-Related Safety and Toxicology:
Spirulina is a form of cyanobacterium, of which some are known to produce toxins such as microcystins, beta-methylamines-L-alanine (BMAA), and others. Some spirulina supplements have been found to be contaminated with microcystins, albeit at levels below the limit set by the Oregon Health Department [59]. These toxic compounds are not produced by spirulina itself but may occur as a result of contamination of spirulina batches with other toxin-producing blue-green algae. Adverse events caused by Spirulina are not known up to now [60]. There are no mandatory safety regulations in place, and the manufacture of spirulina is not subject to any active, industry-wide oversight since it is seen in the U.S. as a dietary supplement. because of their manufacturing or purity. The U.S. National Institutes of Health states that spirulina supplements are "possibly safe" if they are free of microcystin contamination, but If polluted, it is "probably hazardous," particularly to childrens [61]. Some public health researchers have expressed concern that consumers in the U.S. cannot be sure about spirulina and other products due to the country's paucity of regulations. There is no contamination in supplements made with blue-green algae. Due to the higher risk of contamination with toxin-producing microalgae in open pond systems as compared to closed bioreactors, Higher standards for algae products from open ponds must be implemented. Additionally, the problem of heavy metal contamination in spirulina supplements has been highlighted. The Chinese State Food and According to the Drug Administration, lead, mercury, and arsenic pollution are prevalent in spirulina supplements sold in China, most likely as a result of water pollution. One investigation found that lead, mercury, and arsenic contamination are common in spirulina supplements sold in China. disclosed that a sample from a commercial supplement contained lead at a level of 5.1 ppm [62]. For this reason, it is imperative to only utilize Spirulina from sources that adhere to strict and uniform manufacturing standards. between 10 and 19 grams of Spirulina should be taken as a daily dose. Regular use in many parts of Africa has reached up to 40 grams each day for several months. Additionally, there is data supporting the safety of daily usage [9] and no adverse effects have been reported. Adverse effects may include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, or headache [59].
CONCLUSION:
Spirulina, often termed a “green superfood,” has proven to be a rich and balanced nutritional source that fulfills multiple dietary and medicinal needs. With its high protein content, balanced amino acid profile, and abundance of phytonutrients such as carotenoids, chlorophyll, and essential fatty acids, Its major component, C-phycocyanin, plays a central role in antioxidant defense Spirulina contributes to the maintenance of overall health, immune regulation, and disease prevention. It serves as a sustainable nutritional intervention against malnutrition and chronic disorders including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and liver ailments. The scientific evidence supports its role as a daily health supplement capable of enhancing vitality, detoxifying heavy metals, and restoring metabolic balance. Beyond its nutritional and medicinal benefits, Spirulina represents a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for global food security. Its rapid growth rate, minimal land and water requirements, and ability to thrive in harsh environmental conditions make it a promising bioresource for future nutrition and health innovations. The cultivation of Spirulina can help address global malnutrition, reduce the carbon footprint, and provide a renewable source of high-value nutrients. Integrating Spirulina into public health programs, especially in developing countries, could significantly contribute to improving health outcomes and supporting environmental conservation simultaneously. Continued research on its biotechnological applications and clinical efficacy will strengthen its role as a bridge between food and medicine.
REFERENCE
Purva Deshmukh*, Amol Gayke, Pooja Rajude, Green Superfood: A Depth Review of Spirulina Algae with Multifaceted Therapeutic Applications, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2025, 2 (11), 246-256. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17553839
10.5281/zenodo.17553839
