Spirulina may be a lesser known dietary supplement, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the best in recent years. Spirulina is actually one of hundreds of algae species. Often known as blue green algae it is made up of tiny organisms that grow in the water. Spirulina does not have stems, leaves or roots as most plants do but yet it is classified as a plant species. Like other plants however though, it does require chlorophyll which means that it takes sunlight and turns it into food energy. It can also work to remove the carbon dioxide from the air and turn it into oxygen and at the same time it creates proteins and sugars making it more than just your ordinary type of plant.

Spirulina has been used as a food source for both people and animals in other parts of the world. In some areas as well it is used for medicinal purposes. This is because it contains antioxidants that include zeaxanthin and beta carotene which decrease the activity of free radicals that can damage the cells in your body which can cause disease. Free radicals also suppress the immune function of your body which leaves you more susceptible to illness. Not only does spirulina boost your immune activity but it can stimulate production of other chemicals that can make you healthier. This includes anti-inflammatory chemicals which help with arthritis and other inflammations in your joints and muscles.

Spirulina also decreases some allergic responses due to seasonal allergies because it can block the release of histamine that causes the allergic reaction. It lessens the symptoms which include blood vessel expansion and muscle contraction that can cause sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. In some cases, spirulina works to produce anticancer effects all based on the immune enhancing properties. It promotes the release of chemicals in the body that can actually attack tumor cells so not only is it preventative but it can be used as a cancer treatment as well. With some viruses such as HIV, spirulina can block the entrance of viral cells into host cells which means that it can keep a person with a serious illness from getting sicker faster.