Spirulina: A
wonder herb to treat topical diseases
Kushagra Nagori, Mukesh Sharma
Rungta
College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Bhilai, C.G. India.
*Corresponding Author E-mail: kushagranagori13@yahoo.co.in
ABSTRACT:
Our skin is our body’s largest
organ and barrier from the outside world. When our skin is constantly exposed
to pollutants and UV damaging rays over an extended period of time, it becomes
more vulnerable to free radical damage. Excessive free radical exposure
through a toxic diet and environmental pollutants harm the skin by damaging DNA
and cell membranes that keep the skin plump and firm. As we all know, some of
our illnesses are caused by having insufficient nutrients in our body. These
illnesses are just the symptoms to show us that we may be lacking in some
nutrients. If we replenish these nutrients in time, the symptoms usually disappearWith over 100 nutrients, Spirulina
is often described as the most complete food source in the world. The American
National Aeronautical and Space Agency includes it in their astronauts diet and
plans to grow Spirulina in it’s
space station.Japan has some good examples of some
Japanese seniors who have only relied on Spirulina
and water for more than 20 years showing how good is Spirulina
for the human body. Spirulina is effective in
treating dark circles dry eye symptoms,detoxifies skin,dandruff,aging skin,rinkle
and hairfall.
KEYWORDS:
INTRODUCTION:
Spirulina is 100% natural and a highly
nutritious micro salt water plant. It was discovered in South American and
Africa in natural alkaline lakes. This spiral shaped algae is a rich food
source. For a long time (centuries) this algae has constituted a significant
part of the diet of many communities. Since the 1970's, Spirulina
has been well known and widely used as a dietary supplement in some countries.(1)Spirulina contains rich vegetable protein (60~ 63 %, 3~4
times higher than fish or beef ), multi Vitamins (Vitamin B 12 is 3~4 times
higher than animal liver), which is particularly lacking in a vegetarian diet.
It contains a wide range of minerals (including Iron, Potassium, Magnesium
Sodium, Phosphorus, Calcium etc.), a high volume of Beta- carotene which
protects cells (5 time more than carrots, 40 time more than spinach), high
volumes of gamma-Linolein acid (which can reduce
cholesterol and prevent heart disease). (2)Further, Spirulina contains Phycocyanin
which can only be found in Spirulina.
Spirulina is naturally-occurring
blue-green algae. It is very rich in protein, minerals, vitamins and many other
nutrients, as well as being an excellent source of antioxidants. Studies done
in test tubes indicate that spirulina might be a
natural wonder drug, as it has benefits that seem to go far beyond what one
would expect from a simple algae.Cyanobacteria, CyanobactérieIn USA, NASA have chosen to use it for
astronauts food in space,and even plan to grow and
harvest it in space stations in the near future. (3)
Nurturing and natural features of Spirulina
“Blue-green algae are commonly found in
tropical or subtropical waters that have a high-salt content, but some types
grow in large fresh water lakes. The natural color of these algae can give
bodies of water a dark-green appearance. The altitude, temperature, and sun
exposure where the blue-green algae are grown dramatically influence the types
and mix of blue-green algae in the water. (4)
There are four major conditions for growing
Spirulina.
1. Tropical weather
2. Strong sunshine
3. Pure water resource
4. Pollution free environment
It is not possible to grow
Commercial Spirulina culture in a cold or temperate
area. Spirulina needs consistent high temperature
which helps it’s growth. Spirulina will not grow
anywhere that has constant low temperature (under 25 degrees). Under 20c
degrees Spirulina will stop reproducing and die in a
short time. (5)
Dosage of Spirulina. (6)
A typical standard dose is four
to six tablets each day, of 500 mg each. If this choose to take spirulina in something other than pill form, keep the 500
mg dosage in mind. It is also important to remember not to take spirulina when pregnancy or nursing.Make
sure to take spirulina with only water, either cold
or warm. Avoid taking it with things like juice, tea, soda, or milk. Also avoid
these things for at least 30 minutes after taking spirulina,
as they can destroy some of the good effects. In addition to taking spirulina, drink at least an extra half-liter of water
every day to help it better absorb into your body.
Skin:
Our skin is a remarkable barometer of our body’s health and is therefore
affected by how well we are internally. So getting our body’s systems working
optimally is crucial to addressing skin problems. Diet is also key – eating
foods which nourish our body while limiting those which are toxic or contribute
no nutritional value is important. (7)
Skin Nutrition: (8)
The health of our skin depends on 3 basic elements:
1.The quality of nutrients taken in from our diet
2.How well
these nutrients are digested and absorbed
3.The
effectiveness of the bodies waste removal
It is important to nourish and
balance each cell in the body with proper nutrients and water to help skin look
and feel great. The human body has an innate intelligence; give the body what
it needs (not what it desires), and the body will take care of all aspects of
its health. The skin is part of the body, and it has many functions. It is the
largest organ of the body. (9) (10) (11)It serves as a protective
cover, helps to regulate the body’s temperature, defends the body against
foreign invaders (through the immune system), and helps the body’s
detoxification process. It is also called “the third kidney.” If
the kidney’s elimination pathways are backed up, toxins will eliminate through
the skin.
It is important to examine and
incorporate the nutritional foundations because:
Beautiful skin on the outside begins with good health on the inside.
The condition of skin is a direct reflection of our health; what is going
on inside the body will be reflected on the outside of the body.
The body will take care of the rest: a healthy body, more energy and
beautiful complexion.
Instructions for glowing healthy skin at
any age. (12-14)
Drink more water and eat plenty of fresh fruit and
vegetables. Sounds obvious, but it can make a real difference.
Limit your intake of sugary foods, refined carbohydrates
(white bread etc) and anything fried.
Eat more antioxidant-rich foods such as carrots, pumpkin,
watercress, berries, broccoli, fish and seafood.
Boost your intake of essential fats that help to keep your
skin soft and supple – so eat a handful of unsalted nuts and seeds each day and
have oily fish a few times a week.
If you experience other health issues – particularly with
digestion or hormone balance – these can manifest in skin problems, so take
steps to find out more and address these
Spirulina, the wonder nutrient for the
skin.
(15-17)
It not only contains just about every skin nutrient,but it cleanses and purifies the body.
It naturally detoxes
daily. “Spirulina has an antioxidant system which
prevents the harmful action of radicals in the dermis and epidermis
Its outstanding nutritional
profile also includes the essential fatty acids, GLA fatty acid, lipids, the
nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), B complex, vitamin E and phytochemicals,
such as carotenoids, chlorophyll (blood purifier),
and phycocyanin (a blue pigment), which is a pigment
that is known to inhibit skin cancer.
Spirulina (dried) |
|
Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) |
|
1,213 kJ (290 kcal) |
|
Carbohydrates |
23.9 g |
Sugars |
3.1 g |
Dietary fiber |
3.6 g |
Fat |
7.72 g |
Saturated |
2.65 g |
Monounsaturated |
0.675 g |
Polyunsaturated |
2.08 g |
Protein |
57.47 g |
Tryptophan |
0.929 g |
Threonine |
2.97 g |
Isoleucine |
3.209 g |
Leucine |
4.947 g |
Lysine |
3.025 g |
Methionine |
1.149 g |
Cystine |
0.662 g |
Phenylalanine |
2.777 g |
Tyrosine |
2.584 g |
Valine |
3.512 g |
Arginine |
4.147 g |
Histidine |
1.085 g |
Alanine |
4.515 g |
Aspartic acid |
5.793 g |
Glutamic acid |
8.386 g |
Glycine |
3.099 g |
Proline |
2.382 g |
Serine |
2.998 g |
Vitamins |
|
Vitamin A equiv. beta-carotene Lutein zeaxanthin |
(4%) 29 μg (3%) 342 μg 0 μg |
Thiamine (B1) |
(207%) 2.38 mg |
Riboflavin (B2) |
(306%) 3.67 mg |
Niacin (B3) |
(85%) 12.82 mg |
Pantothenic acid (B5) |
(70%) 3.48 mg |
Vitamin B6 |
(28%) 0.364 mg |
Folate (B9) |
(24%) 94 μg |
Vitamin B12 |
(0%) 0 μg |
Choline |
(13%) 66 mg |
Vitamin C |
(12%) 10.1 mg |
Vitamin D |
(0%) 0 IU |
Vitamin E |
(33%) 5 mg |
Vitamin K |
(24%) 25.5 μg |
Trace metals |
|
Calcium |
(12%) 120 mg |
Iron |
(219%) 28.5 mg |
Magnesium |
(55%) 195 mg |
Manganese |
(90%) 1.9 mg |
Phosphorus |
(17%) 118 mg |
Potassium |
(29%) 1363 mg |
Sodium |
(70%) 1048 mg |
Zinc |
(21% 2 mg |
How it is work for healthy skin. (20-23)
Spirulina absorbs sunshine and then
creates a reaction in its cells. When this reaction starts, Spirulina
will produce the nutrients in the cell and will convert carbon dioxide into
oxygen. Strong sunshine helps Spirulina produce more
nutrients.
Spirulina provide an improved skin tone,
more skin elasticity and general skin nutrition.
Spirulina has a vast range of properties
which enables it to effectively fulfill its purpose to the skin and this
includes:
A high content of necessary
vitamins and minerals which adequately help nourish the skin, taking care of
very sensitive skin and blushing skin. These ingredients are also responsible
for moisturizing and soothing sore and broken skin.
Spirulina is also able to maintain
moisturized skin through preventing water evaporation from the skin surface
improving on the nutrition and the soothing effects on the skin
Its skin soothing effect enables
this mask powder deal with skin troubles, enhance a glowing skin and cure the
skin after peeling.
Spirulina also allows for pore
contraction, leading to a cooling effect on the skin. It enables the skin
maintain its elasticity and skin pore shrinkage, leaving a calm and refreshed
skin feeling.
A major advantage in the use of Spirulina mask powder is that it is perfect for all kinds
of skin. The product is medically approved for use on all kinds of skin
including oily skin, tired skin, highly irritable skin and all other skins
requiring soothing and special treatment.
Spirulina is a “superfood” which possesses
tremendous nutritional value. Being rich in vital nutrients, this plant offers
the following health benefits:
According
to research, Spirulina can help in the treatment of
allergic rhinitis. Consumption of Spirulina helps in
reducing symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, congestion and itching.
Spirulina reduces the blood cholesterol levels naturally and boosts
the absorption of vital minerals. Consumption of several grams of Spirulina daily can reduce LDL or bad cholesterol and
improve the cholesterol ratio. This normalization of cholesterol plays a great
role in weight reduction.
In
a study it was observed that taking Spirulina as a
dietary supplement for 12 weeks results in a significant reduction in blood-fat
levels. It is particularly beneficial for diabetics as it decreases
inflammation and helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
Spirulina is rich in beta-carotene, chlorophyll, fatty-acid GLA and
other nutrients which are particularly beneficial for overweight people. Taking
this supplement is beneficial while fasting, as it supplies the nutrients that
are needed to cleanse and heal your system, while curbing your appetite.
Several
studies have proven that Spirulina can arrest the
development of cancer progression, reduce the risk of cancer initiation and
boost your immune system. It is a great substitute for animal products as
it contains a special form of protein that assimilates well. Unlike animal
proteins, it does not burden your body with waste products. It is also rich in phycocyanin, a pigment with anti-cancer properties. It
strengthens immunity and inhibits excess cell division. Spirulina
also offers some protection against oral cancers.
Folate and vitamin B-12 play an important role in the healthy
functioning of the brain and nervous system. Being rich in these nutrients, Spirulina helps in protecting cognitive function as one
starts to age. This nutritional supplement helps maintain brain function.
Spirulina is a good source of folic acid which provides nourishment
for the brain and supports the production of energy and blood cells. This makes
it beneficial in the treatment of depression.
Research
has shown that Spirulina is beneficial for the eyes.
It is proven to be effective in treating eye diseases such as geriatric
cataracts, diabetic retinal damage (retinitis), nephritic retinal damage and
hardening of retinal blood vessels (angiosclerosis).
Spirulina acts as a good treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers, thanks
to the presence of amino acids, cysteine and a high
content of high quality protein. Being rich in chlorophyll, it is great for
retaining and restoring a good digestion.
Clinical
reports have indicated that Spirulina prevents, as
well as cures, fatty liver and hepato-cirrhosis. This
supplement should be taken for at least one month to notice beneficial results.
The
high content of protein in Spirulina, as well as the
presence of other vitamins, minerals and enzymes, makes it beneficial for
improving sexual vigor.
Spirulina has a high content of phosphorus and helps improve your
teeth.
Chronic
candida yeast is responsible for worsening symptoms
of various autoimmune diseases. Spirulina keeps candida overgrowth under control by encouraging and
supporting the growth of healthy bacteria in your stomach.
Spirulina can cure the symptoms that are a side-effect of HIV and
AIDS treatment. It also helps inactivate the human immunodeficiency virus
associated with HIV and AIDS.
Spirulina has a high content of iron which is required during
pregnancy, particularly for those with anemia. It also prevents constipation.
Spirulina possesses antimicrobial properties that can destroy
bacteria and viruses such as HIV-1, enterovirus,
cytomegalovirus, measles, mumps, influenza A and herpes simplex. It also boosts
the immune system by making it produce more monocytes,
natural killer cells and macrophages, all of which destroy invading pathogens
in the body.
Skin Benefits of Spirulina:
Being
loaded with proteins, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, Spirulina
has a lot to offer in terms of skincare. It is beneficial for your skin in the
following ways:
Spirulina has a high content of vitamin A, vitamin B-12, vitamin E,
calcium, iron and phosphorus, all of which are vital for your skin’s health.
Free radicals make your skin look tired, limp and flabby. Taking Spirulina supplements on a regular basis works wonders for
your skin, making it look toned, youthful and vital. It also treats flabby skin
by eliminating the body’s metabolic waste products and strengthening the body
as a whole.
Spirulina is effective in treating dark circles and dry eye symptoms.
Its detoxifying effects give your eyes new energy and power, removing dark
shadows and dryness.
Spirulina contains tyrosine, vitamin E or tocopherol,
and selenium, all of which are known for their anti-ageing effects. Tyrosine
slows down the ageing of skin cells. The antioxidants present in it eliminate
free radicals which are responsible for skin ageing. Try this facial mask to
prevent premature ageing of skin and fight acne. Make a paste by mixing some Spirulina with water and apply it on your face. Keep on for
20 minutes and wash off. This will make your skin amazingly soft and smooth as
well as prevent signs of ageing like wrinkles.
Spirulina facilitates faster cell turnover that helps skin heal
faster. It wards off free radicals and eliminates toxins from the skin to
increase skin metabolism. It also prevents candida
overgrowth that can cause acne breakouts.
Regular
use of Spirulina treats fingernail ridges and other
nail problems. Spirulina contains 70% high-value
protein which is required by the body. Consuming it for about 4 weeks can cure
nail problems and warts.
Spirulina is being widely used for promoting hair growth and to
combat hair problems like thinning hair and baldness. Spirulina
contains amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamin A and beta-carotene, all
of which are great for hair. Some of its hair benefits are as follows:
External
use of Spirulina can speed up hair growth. Besides
consumption, this algae is used as an ingredient in shampoos and conditioning
treatments. It also helps in hair re-growth.
Alopecia
is an autoimmune disease characterized by hair loss at an alarming rate. It is
not just confined to the scalp alone but also leads to hair loss across the
body and face. This can result in bald spots, even in women, and even complete
baldness. Spirulina acts as an alternative medicine
to deter further loss of hair and facilitate hair renewal.
Spirulina acts as an antioxidant compound and taking it for 4 weeks
makes your hair completely dandruff-free, glossy and stronger.
Spirulina is a super food that has a rich nutritional value
incorporating a multitude of vitamins, minerals and fatty acids which
contribute to its various benefits. Being one of the most nutritious and
concentrated food sources, it is frequently used in natural foods and
beverages, including green foods and drinks, energy bars and oral supplements.
Its nutritional profile is explained below:
Other benefits of Spirulina
Good For |
Reasons |
Immune System |
Spirulina can increase the number of
antibodies in the blood, helping the body fight off infections. It might also
help ward off serious diseases, such as cancer. |
Protein Supplement |
Spirulina is mostly made up of amino
acids – 62 percent, in fact. That means that it can be used as an effective
nutritional supplement. |
Allergic Reactions |
When allergic reactions occur, spirulina can guard against them by working as an
antihistamine, easing the symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing
and the like. |
Antibiotic-Related Disease |
When antibiotics work in the body, they
kill both the bad bacteria and the beneficial ones. This can then lead to
diarrhea and other problems. Spirulina can boost
the growth of the good bacteria, giving your body the balance it needs. |
Infections |
In test tube trials, spirulina
has been effective against serious infectious diseases, such as HIV,
influenza and herpes. Studies have yet to determine just how effective it is
in humans, however. |
Oral Cancer |
Spirulina tends to reduce precancerous
lesions, as seen by limited studies. More studies are needed to determine
whether spirulina will be an effective course of
treatment alongside chemotherapy, radiation and the like. |
Liver Disorders |
Spirulina has been shown to help
prevent and slow the progress of liver cancers, cirrhosis and other liver
disorders. |
Blood Pressure |
Spirulina, when taken along with a
regular regimen of diet and exercise to treat blood pressure, can help reduce
hypertension. It has been shown to have limited benefits when used on its
own. |
Cholesterol |
Though diet and exercise do matter when
getting cholesterol under control, adding spirulina
can help lower your cholesterol numbers even more. |
Stroke |
In studies on rats, it was found that spirulina helped combat free radicals and lowered the
chances of stroke. |
Cancer |
Studies have shown that spirulina infused with selenium had a positive effect on
breast cancer patients, and might have the same effect on other cancers as
well. |
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