Organic Spirulina Powder

ANTI-OXIDANTS and ANTI-INFLAMMATORY


Antioxidants play an important role when preventing the body from oxidising and thus put under more stress. Studies have discovered that Spirulina contains large quantities of tertrapyrrolic compounds (in the form of phycocyanobilin and chlorophyllin), these compounds are closely related to bilirubin molecule, a potent antioxidant.

 Various studies have been performed regarding the anti-oxidant profile and efficacy of these compounds when treating various ailments, as well as their anti-inflammatory effects.

Together oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to many diseases. (4, 5, 6, 7, 8)

CIRCULATORY and ANTI-INFLAMMATORY


Mainly due to the high levels of phycocyanin and β-carotene (which have been proven to be anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory), Spirulina has been suggested to potentially lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. (11, 12)

ORGAN and ANTI-INFLAMMATORY (COLON)


Spirulina has also been suggested to benefit other inflammatory issues within the body such as inflammation of the lining of the colon. (11, 12)

IMMUNE FUNCTION (PROTEIN)


Spirulina is one of natures highest forms of plant based protein, with around 60g per 100g. Studies suggest that Spirulinas protein profile may rectify amino acid imbalances in the body, due to its thin cells walls making it easier to digest. It really is the perfect source of protein (even more so since the area required to provide a human with a years supply of protein is around 10m2, opposed to 5ha for grass fed cattle). (9, 11, 12)

ANTI-OXIDANT (EYE HEALTH)


As we age our eyes age too, one of the conditions commonly associated with ageing is cataracts—where the lens over the eye which is normally clear begins to become cloudy. This can be rectified with surgery, although studies have also shown that Spirulina may prevent cataracts due to its anti-oxidative effects. (10)

ANTI-OXIDANT and ANTI-VIRAL


Viral infections are caused by viruses—the word Virus comes from the Latin word meaning toxin or poison—Viruses infect a host and multiply within the host cells. Viral infection can be severe, in the form of HIV or Ebola, or can be slight in the form of the common cold / cold sores.
Studies have found that Spirulina may aid in the reduction in the Hepatitis C virus. It has also been suggested that an anti-oxidant within Spirulina (calcium spirulina (Ca-SP)) may be active against the Herpes Simplex virus. (18, 21, 22)

ANTI-OXIDANT (MEMORY and COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE)


Studies have shown that by consuming Spirulina memory loss may be lessened due to Spirulinas anti-oxidant activity having the ability to reduce Aβ protein accumulation. (Aβ protein accumulation has also been linked to Alzheimers disease). (5)

ANTI_OXIDANT and IMMUNOMODULATORY


Studies have discovered that Spirulina contains large quantities of tertrapyrrolic compounds (in the form of phycocyanobilin and chlorophyllin), these compounds are very closely related to a researched cancer fighting anti-oxidant called bilirubin. When trialed against pancreatic cancer cells, these compounds within Spirulina were shown to potentially be anti-cancerous. Research also suggests that Spirulina may potentially prevent the growth of breast cancer cells and that an active compound found in spirulina (C-Phycocyanin), can potentially cause the apoptosis of leukeamia cells. (1, 2, 3, 11, 12, 15, 16, 20)

CIRCULATORY (CHOLESTEROL)


Spirulinas effect on the bodies lipids (fats) and the associated health risks have been researched extensively for many years. Each study suggests Spirulina may be able to manage lipid levels, by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and an increasing HDL (good cholesterol), also potentially reducing the risk of conditions such as, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. It has also been linked to benefiting Diabetes related lipid imbalances. (11, 12, 24, 25, 26)

ORGANS (KIDNEYS & DIABETES)


Due to the tertrapyrrolic compounds in Spirulina (in the form of phycocyanobilin and chlorophyllin), essentially being anti-oxidantive. It has been suggested by studies that diabetes induced kidney disease may be prevented by consuming Spirulina. (23, 24)

ANAPHYLAXIS


It has been studied that Spirulina powder may have the potential to reduce the instances of anaphylactic reactions under certain circumstances. (13a) Although, it is also important to note that in some instances there is the potential for some individuals to be allergic to Spirulina and consuming Spirulina may cause an anaphylactic reaction. (13b)

SKELETAL (ARTHRITIS)


There are a number of types of Arthritis, all of which affect the muscular skeletal system, mainly joints, where two bones meet. Arthritis causes pain, stiffness, inflammation and damage to the tissue in the joint responsible for smooth joint movement. There can be moderate discomfort, to severe cases which inhibit basic movement, weakness, and day to day quality of life. 
Studies suggest that Spirulina may potentially reduce the effects of Arthritis, due to it's immunomodulatory effects. (11, 12, 20)

SKIN HEALTH


When the hair of eczema/dermatitis sufferers was tested it showed mineral imbalances (essential mineral deficiencies and toxic mineral increases). When patients in the study group were given Spirulina, their skin conditions improved as did the mineral profile. Suggesting that not only could mineral imbalances be involved in eczema/dermatitis but also that Spirulina could help the condition. (19)

Getting in the Kitchen

The Grove Spirulina powder can be added to smoothies (great with pineapple or beetroot), juices, pancakes, raw food treats and baked goods, we especially love adding it with Cacao and Beetroot in Energy balls, or in Cacao cupcakes.
We also love to use it as a facial mask with yoghurt and honey, or combined with Neem and Aloe for enhanced topical mask actions. We also add it to moisturisers and other skin care products.

Recipes in the Blog

Spirulina & Cacao Pancakes

Spirulina Smoothie

Spiruina, Beetroot & Cacao Bites