--- title: "Spirulina Powder: Benefits, Uses & Side Effects | Herbadex" description: "A protein-rich blue-green alga. Meta-analyses of small studies found modest falls in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides; choose tested products." language: en url: https://herbadex.com/en/herb/spirulina-powder/ source: Herbadex (https://herbadex.com) --- [Clay, Soap & Other](https://herbadex.com/en/form/other/) # Spirulina Powder Arthrospira platensis B Limited clinical evidence A protein-rich blue-green alga. Meta-analyses of small studies found modest falls in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides; choose tested products. [General Nutrition](https://herbadex.com/en/for/general-nutrition/) [Metabolism, Weight & Blood Sugar](https://herbadex.com/en/for/metabolism/) Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim Pregnancy **Caution** Breastfeeding **Caution** Children **Caution** Drug interactions **Interaction reported** ## At a glance Spirulina is a blue-green microalga (Arthrospira); about 60% of its dry weight is protein, plus iron, beta-carotene and phycocyanin. Meta-analyses of small trials suggest 1–8 g a day may modestly lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Most of its vitamin B12 is in a form inactive in humans. Poor-quality products can contain toxins and heavy metals. **Parts used:** whole-organism **Key constituents:** Protein (~60%), Phycocyanin, Iron & B Vitamins (B12 inactive analogues) Updated: October 15, 2026 ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists. ## What is it used for? - B Limited clinical evidence Small studies suggest it may help modestly lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. \[1\] - B Limited clinical evidence A source of protein, iron and beta-carotene; not a reliable source of vitamin B12. \[1\] ## How is it used? ### Food Mix the powder into smoothies, yoghurt or juice; studies used 1–8 g daily. **Amount:** 1–2 times daily **Duration limit:** 12 weeks (in studies) \[1\] ## Safety & interactions - Use only products tested for microcystins and heavy metals; contaminated products can harm the liver. - People with phenylketonuria (PKU) must not use it (contains phenylalanine). - With autoimmune disease (lupus, MS, rheumatoid arthritis) ask a doctor, as it may stimulate immunity. - Not a reliable B12 source for vegetarians. \[1\] \[2\] ### Drug interactions | Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity | | --- | --- | --- | | Immunosuppressants | May reduce their effect by stimulating immunity. [2] | Moderate | | Anticoagulants | Could theoretically raise bleeding risk. [2] | Minor | ### Side effects - Nausea, diarrhoea, bloating - Headache - Liver damage with contaminated products #### ⚕ When to see a doctor - If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops - If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen - If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs ## Did you know? The Aztecs harvested spirulina from Lake Texcoco and ate it as cakes called "tecuitlatl". \[1\] ## Frequently asked questions Is spirulina a B12 source? Not reliably; most of its B12 is inactive in humans. Does spirulina help weight loss? Small studies saw very small effects; it does not cause weight loss alone. Is spirulina safe? Tested products are usually well tolerated; contaminated ones can contain toxins. ## Sources 1. [Herbs at a Glance: Evidence-Based Fact Sheets on Botanical Products](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/herbsataglance) NIH NCCIH · 2024 2. [EFSA Compendium of Botanicals Reported to Contain Naturally Occurring Substances of Possible Concern](https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/data-report/compendium-botanicals) EFSA · 2022 ### Cite This Page Spirulina Powder (Arthrospira platensis). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/spirulina-powder/ ## Related guides and comparisons - [How to Prepare Herbal Tea](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/how-to-prepare-herbal-tea/) - [How to Use Essential Oils Safely](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/essential-oil-safety/) - [Herbal Products and Drug Interactions](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/herb-drug-interactions/) ## On this page At a glance What is it used for? How is it used? Safety & interactions Did you know? 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