ALGAE · MATERIA №26
Spirulina
Arthrospira platensis
The blue-green algae that fed Aztec markets — protein-dense, mineral-bright.
- Family
- algae
- Origin
- Alkaline lakes; cultivated
- Format
- Powder or tablet
- Best taken
- Morning, with food
Spirulina is a microscopic spiral cyanobacterium harvested from alkaline waters. It was a staple food of the Aztecs at Lake Texcoco.
It is roughly 60–70% complete protein by weight and contains phycocyanin — a brilliant blue pigment with antioxidant activity.
How it works in the body
Phycocyanin scavenges reactive oxygen species. Iron is delivered in a highly bioavailable form. The chlorophyll content supports detoxification pathways.
What you can expect
Plant protein
Complete amino acid profile in a small dose.
Good for: energy
Iron and B-vitamins
Bioavailable iron support, especially valuable for plant-based eaters.
Good for: energy
Antioxidant support
Phycocyanin and chlorophyll.
Good for: longevity
04 — PROTOCOL
3–5 g daily, in powder or tablet form, with a meal.
05 — SOURCING
Third-party tested for microcystins, heavy metals, and bacterial contamination. Cultivated in controlled freshwater is preferable to open-lake harvest.
06 — CAUTION
Source matters — only buy spirulina tested for microcystins and heavy metals. Avoid if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
What the studies say
HONEST NOTE
Peer-reviewed human evidence specifically for Spirulina is still limited. We use it for its traditional context and mechanistic profile, but we won't cite trials that don't exist.
All citations link to PubMed, PubMed Central or the original publisher. We do not reproduce full study text. References last verified by SACRAHAUS editorial.
08 — PRODUCTS
Products with Spirulina
08 — PAIRS WELL WITH
Build the stack
Honest answers
- Is spirulina safe daily?
- For most healthy adults, yes — provided the source is third-party tested for microcystins and heavy metals.
CONTINUE THE MATERIA