Botanical Name: Spirulina platensis

Common Name:

English: Spirulina, Blue green algae, Spirulina Powder, Spirulina algae
Origin: China

Harvested: Wild

Parts Used: Algae

General Information:

Spirulina has amazing properties and, in many ways, can be considered a Super Food. It contains the most remarkable concentration of nutrients. Spirulina is a naturally occurring blue-green micro-algae that grows and thrives in warm water alkaline lakes. Wild grown spirulina sustains flamingos in the East African Rift Valley lakes and has the strength and ability to thrive in conditions where other algae cannot grow. It is a single celled organism that turns sunlight into micronutrient life energy. It is one of the early life forms originating more than 3.6 billion years ago, and its spiral shape is what gives it the common name of spirulina. All the essential vitamins and minerals a body requires can be provided by spirulina, these provide a variety of benefits for the human body.

Micro-algae are one of the smallest, most ancient and robust organisms living on Earth and one of the tiniest plants, which alone produce about 60% of the Earth’s oxygen. They have survived some of Earth’s harshest conditions for several billion years due to their incredible and robust cell wall. Due to its high quantities of minerals, vitamins, and micro-nutrients, Spirulina has been mainly used to combat malnourishment and assist HIV/AIDS patients in Africa. However, in the last few years, Spirulina has seen a growing market amongst health and fitness conscious. Its high protein and nutrient content make it an ideal food supplement and an immune booster.

How to use:

Powdered Herb:

There are different ways to use powdered herb.

Food Preparation: You can add powdered herbs to any super food, herbal smoothie, sauces, spreads and even cookies. Also, for children, you can mix powdered herbs with honey or glycerin to make a paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help the medicine go down. This method is also known as "Electuaries".

Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, give you assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.

Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.

Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.

Precautions:

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purposes ONLY.

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Spirulina Powder