Spirulina is a microscopic filamentous alga that is rich in proteins, vitamins, essential amino acids, minerals and essential fatty
acids like γ-linolenic acid (GLA). It is produced commercially and sold as a food supplement in health food stores around
the world. Up to very recently, the interest in
Spirulina was mainly in its nutritive value. Currently, however, numerous people are looking into the possible therapeutic effects
of
Spirulina. Many pre-clinical studies and a few clinical studies suggest several therapeutic effects ranging from reduction of cholesterol
and cancer to enhancing the immune system, increasing intestinal lactobacilli, reducing nephrotoxicity by heavy metals and
drugs and radiation protection. This paper presents a critical review of some published and unpublished data on therapeutic
effects of
Spirulina.
Key words anti-virus - hyperlipidemia - immune system - nephrotoxicity - radioprotection -
Spirulina