The Health Benefits of Spirulina

Spirulina blue green algae is known to be one of the world's best sources of all around nutrition.  In fact, the algae has been used as a prime food ingredient in many cultures to sustain overall health as well as to prevent and aid in the recovery from malnutrition.  Spirulina is grown across the world in many countries in various controlled ponds, as see in the photo below, then harvested and processed.  In its raw form prior to incorporation into our formulas, the algae is dark green, sweet smelling powder as seen above. 

A couple of words regarding the processing of spirulina, primarily due to one of it natural properties.  Spirulina has been shown in various human studies to have the ability to detoxify the body primarily through binding and removal of various heavy metals.  By nature of its growth in ponds and due to heavy pollution of our environment, one has to be cautious about the heavy metals that Spirulina may contain in its raw form.  In many instances, water run off into ponds could carry heavy metals as well as other pollutants, which could then be taken up by the algae.  This is true of almost any algae species and one must use caution.  Our spirulina is all natural, containing no preservatives, dyes, pesticides or any radiation during processing.  As with all of our ingredients, our spirulina is tested for heavy metal levels as well as microbial contamination prior to incorporating into our products.

So, what is so great about Spirulina?  This blue green algae has been shown to have tremendous nutritive capabilites for starters.  On analysis of 100 grams of spirulina the nutritive breakdown is as follows:

• Calories 386
• Total Fat  7.5 grams
• Carbohydrates  14 grams
• Protein 69 grams
• Beta Carotenes  150 grams
• Vitamin A  250,000 iu
• Vitamin K  850 mcg
• Vitamin B-12   160 mcg
• Calcium  177 mg 
• Iron   68 mg
• GLA  1.3 grams
• Potassium  1640 mg

I firmly believe in obtaining as many nutrients as possible in their natural form due to available co-factors that may be present to aid in assimilation.  Spirulina has provided a great source for our patients to aid in overall health as well as provide nutrients needed for recovery and strengthening.   

In terms of other benefits, spirulina has shown the ability to aid in overall detoxification by binding heavy metals as well as other toxins that may be present in our bodies, as well as those of our pets and horses.  Spirulina has also shown to have potentially anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, helping to support the immune system and controlling the inflammatory response. This blue green algae has also been shown to tonify the blood, improve brain and heart function, increase energy levels and also help to balance the gastrointestinal tract. 

We have three anti-inflammatory products that contain spirulina as a primary base; one for horses (Cur-OST EQ Green), companion pets (Cur-OST SA) and people (Cur-OST HU).  I firmly believe in the value of this potent nutrient and have found tremendous benefits in our patients.  I see an overall improvement in mentation, skin and hair coat as well as energy levels.  In horses, we have seen a marked improvement in hoof condition and growth as well, likely associated with the nutritive value and b-vitamins.  I have also found tremendous benefit in aiding the recovery of various tendon and ligament conditions. 

The only downside to spirulina is the overall taste.  Most companion pets and horses will readily consume the products due to added natural flavors.  I have found that many cats will readily consume the Spirulina powder as well.  The human formula has a light natural berry flavor to aid in disguising the spirulina, but in some cases, it is still readily tasted.  Suggestions for covering up the flavor in the human formula include mixing the formula with a fruit juice, which appear to neutralize the flavor.

I hope you find this information valuable!  Please let us know if you have any questions.

Tom Schell, D.V.M.
Nouvelle Research, Inc.
www.curost.com