Spirulina is one of hundreds of algae species and is commonly known as blue green algae. Algae, including spirulina, are tiny organisms that usually grow on inland waters throughout the world. It looks like a blue-green scum. Algae is usually divided by color. Some of the different algae are blue-green, green, yellow-green, red, and brown. World-wide there are 8000 species of green algae. Of the three main types of algae, spirulina is the easiest to digest.
Spirulina is not a typical herb. It does not have roots, leaves, or stems. But it does create proteins and sugars just as animals do and it does contain chlorophyll and perform photosynthesis.
The Aztecs of Mexico ate it as a staple food. They dried it and spread it on tortillas. Africans of the Sahara region also use dried spirulina with grains and vegetables. Around the world, spirulina is used as a food source for animals and humans.
Following are a few benefits of spirulina. Spirulina enhances the immune system through the antioxidants it contains. Spirulina is highly nutritious and is an excellent source of chlorophyll, protein, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It contains twenty-six times the calcium that milk has. It also contains phosphorus, B12, and is a good source of iron. It is safe, has no side effects, and is easy to store. All these won it the name “Manna of the future.” It is used to treat anemia, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders,
