Microalgae Cautions
For chronic arthritis, small doses should be taken at first, and gradually increased. Otherwise Microalgae may initially increase pain. The same goes for chronic intestinal conditions, where increased abdominal flatulence, possibly with cramping may be experienced. As with Miso and Garlic, Microalgae initially increases the fermentation arising from intestinal dysbiosis because it destroys noxious intestinal microflora and the, given a balanced wholesome diet, goes on to eliminate them completely.
Microcystin contamination can cause hepatotoxicity, renal failure, and neurotoxicity. Products should be certified that they are free of contaminants.
Spirulina-associated hepatotoxicity.Am.J Gastroenterol. 2002;97:3212-3.
The toxins of Cyanobacteria. Acta Medica 2001;44:69-75.
Identification of anatoxins in blue-green algae food supplements using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Food Addit Contam 2001;18:525-31.
Adverse Reactions
Anaphylaxis First case report of anaphylaxis to spirulin: identification of phycocyanin as responsible allergen. Allergy. 2010 Jul;65(7):924-5.
Anaphylaxis to Spirulina confirmed by skin prick test with ingredients of Spirulina tablets. Food Chem Toxicol. 2014 Dec;74:309-10.
Case Report: A 28-year-old man developed acute rhabdomyolysis after ingesting Spirulina supplements for one month. His symptoms resolved after discontinuing supplement use . Acute rhabdomyolysis caused by Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). Phytomedicine. 2008 Jun;15(6-7):525-7.
Case Report: A day-old baby was hospitalized for generalized seizures associated with hypercalcemia, found to be related to the mother’s long-term consumption of Spirulina supplements. Severe neonatal hypercalcemia related to maternal exposure to nutritional supplement containing Spirulina. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2012 Feb;68(2):221-2.
Cyanotoxin (e.g. anatoxin, saxitoxin, microcystins) contamination of AFA-algae and possibly Spirulina may cause hepatotoxicity, renal failure, neurotoxicity, seizures, respiratory arrest, acute pancreatitis, and cardiomyopathy.
Herb/Drug Interactions
Cytochrome P450 substrates: Spirulina inhibits CYP 1A2 and 2E1, and may cause accumulation of drugs metabolized by these enzymes, thereby increasing the risk of their side effects. Inhibitory effects of spirulina platensis on carcinogen-activating cytochrome P450 isozymes and potential for drug interactions. Int J Toxicol. 2013 Sep-Oct;32(5):376-84.