What does Aphanizomenon Flos-Aquae do?

Edible blue-green algae, such as Spirulina and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, are currently marketed as dietary supplements with various health claims for immune function, inflammation, heart disease, and general well-being.

Is Aphanizomenon Flos-Aquae the same as spirulina?

Spirulina is a naturally occurring blue-green algae that is commercially grown in a controlled environment. Another natural blue-green algae, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA), is grown commercially in the wild, allowing for potential contamination. Blue-green algae are a phylum of bacteria and not true algae.

What are the benefits of taking blue-green algae?

People use blue-green algae for treating high blood pressure and as a protein supplement. It’s also used for high levels of cholesterol or other fats (lipids) in the blood, diabetes, obesity, and many other conditions.

Is Aphanizomenon toxic?

Toxicity. Aphanizomenon flos-aquae has both toxic and nontoxic forms. Most sources worldwide are toxic, containing both hepatic and neuroendotoxins. Most cyanobacteria (including Aphanizomenon) produce BMAA, a neurotoxin amino acid implicated in ALS/Parkinsonism.

Is drinking algae good for you?

Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria — often referred to as blue-green algae — that is incredibly healthy. It may improve your levels of blood lipids, suppress oxidation, reduce blood pressure and lower blood sugar.

Is aphanizomenon toxic?

What are the side effects of spirulina?

Some minor side effects of spirulina may include nausea, insomnia, and headaches. Still, this supplement is widely considered safe, and most people experience no side effects (2). Spirulina may be contaminated with harmful compounds, thin your blood, and worsen autoimmune conditions.

Does Blue Green Algae increase stem cells?

Algae extracts alone had only moderate activity in these stem cell proliferation assays. Conclusions: This preliminary study suggests that NT-020 plus the ethanol extract of AFA cellular concentrate may act to promote proliferation of human stem cell populations.

What type of bacteria is oscillatoria and what is its purpose?

Oscillatoria is a genus of filamentous cyanobacterium which is often found in freshwater environments, such as hot springs, and appears blue-green. Its name refers to the oscillating motion of its filaments as they slide against each other to position the colony facing a light source.