Spirulina is a term used to refer to various species of microscopic, filamentous cyanobacteria. Its name comes from the spiral or helical nature of its filaments which can measure up to 0.5mm in length (1).
Cyanobacteria grow naturally in mineral-rich alkaline waters, at temperatures of 35°C-40°C. There are several thousand cyanobacteria, only some of which are edible.
Spirulina has a long history of use, dating as far back as the Aztec civilisation. It is still consumed in Mexico and Chad for its rich nutritional content.
When we talk about spirulina nowadays, it’s mostly in the context of dietary supplements (spirulina), mainly produced from Arthrospira platensis. These oxygenated photosynthetic bacteria are found across the world, in fresh an marine waters. Spirulina is also known today for its use by NASA as a dietary supplement for astronauts on space missions.
Spirulina is known for its high nutritional value, earning it the title ‘super-food’ and even ‘future food’. As a result of its rich nutrient content, it has many health benefits. Here are some of its properties.
Firstly, spirulina is an excellent dietary source of protein and essential amino acids. It has an extraordinarily high protein content for a plant source, twice that of the best vegetable source, making it an excellent choice for muscle strength and endurance.
Spirulina also contains a high level of vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, K…) and a wide range of minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese…), micronutrients which are crucial for overall health.
Its high zinc content, for example, contributes to its immunostimulant effect, while its richness in B vitamins boosts energy levels.
In addition, spirulina is notable in containing potentially immunomodulatory polysaccharides.
(perfect for feeling healthy and full of energy) and essential fatty acids (excellent for fighting inflammation and supporting brain function).
A veritable pro-immunity, anti-fatigue cocktail!
While spirulina is primarily used for the properties mentioned above, various studies have been looking at its potential benefits for the health and appearance of the hair.
There has been a recent trend towards the use of spirulina-based supplements as ‘nutricosmetics’, to improve hair vigour and beauty.
Firstly, the protein in spirulina helps create keratin, the primary component of hair. An excellent aid, then, for strengthening the hair and supporting its growth.
One of the B vitamins in spirulina is biotin, also known as vitamin B8. This ‘beauty vitamin’ helps to maintain healthy hair (2).
A lack of iron is known to be a potential factor in hair loss(3). Fortunately, as mentioned above, spirulina is an excellent natural source of iron.
Spirulina’s fatty acids help to keep the skin, and therefore the scalp, well-hydrated. They also appear to reduce inflammation and help nourish the hair follicles (4).
External stressors (pollution, UV…) lead to increases in free radical production, which damages the health of our hair. The vitamin E in spirulina helps protect hair cells against this oxidative stress.
All these various elements make spirulina (see Spirulina) an excellent aid for maintaining the health and appearance of your hair.
References
1 Days
fairly quick service. Decent prices
Vyril A
2 Days
Product always arrives timely and in good shape. Company is easy to work with. Website is user-friendly.
Diane
3 Days
The h pylori supplement has helped my digestive issues. I was diagnosed with h pylori more than once. Also was hospitalized with h pylori several times. Even after taking prescription meds for this condition I still had ongoing digestive issues. So I decided to give this product a try. It has helped with the bloating and inflammation in my stomach and chest. So I gave it a 4 star rating. It helps to calm the pain in my stomach and also acid reflux pains. It is a good product and I would recommend.
Sandra
6 Days
Have purchased from this company many times. A package arrived damaged and with an 1 email to customer service it was fixed. Thank you for great products and great customer service
jd
9 Days
Above and beyond customer service! Bravo. Love SuperSmart.
Isabella Jimenez
13 Days
Still great! I have given my opinion on this several times and it remains the same.
WRIGHT Connie
16 Days
I have been very happy with all my supplements from supersmart
kirstin Torres
16 Days
Quality supplements
Edward P
24 Days
Good products at a good price.
HELLAND Edward
26 Days
Any will be taken care of by SuperSmart staff.
DOMINIC
29 Days
Quality 3rd party tested products without fillers
Edward P
30 Days
great products and prices..
Marie
38 Days
product delivered on time and in good shape
Jack
43 Days
Great supplements at great prices
cynthia b
49 Days
It was easy and timely,
GEORGE Verne