Chlorella General Information
Chlorella is unique single-celled fresh water green algae, but should not be confused with spirulina, blue green algae. They each have their own unique qualities. Chlorella is a major component of phytoplankton, which is a very small free floating aquatic plant found in plankton. Chlorella is a popular food supplement, especially in Japan and is sold as a nutritional supplement in the United States and Canada. There are several species of Chlorella, but the most commonly found in supplements are Chlorella vulgaris and Chlorella pyrenoidosa. Although it is relatively unknown in the United States, Chlorella is used extensively in the Orient. In fact, Chlorella is the number one selling health food supplement sold in Japan. It is estimated that over 10 million people worldwide take Chlorella supplements everyday to maintain overall health.
Chlorella Uses & Scientific Evidence For
Chlorella contains a balance of phyto-nutrients (for more info click on link below) and co-factors beneficial to overall restoration and maintenance of health, and contains a high concentration of chlorophyll (the green coloring matter of leaves and plants, essential to the production of carbohydrates by photosynthesis), nucleic acids, amino acids, enzymes, vitamins and minerals. Numerous studies confirm the varied health benefits Chlorella has to offer. It stimulates immune system function and detoxifies the body of harmful toxins and removes heavy metals as well. Studies have also shown that the high concentrations of chlorophyll and beta-carotene give Chlorella its anti-tumor activity. Ongoing research is being performed as to its effectiveness in preventing or inhibiting tumors. Chlorella also promotes wound healing and helps reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It can be used to treat pancreatitis, pyorrhea (bleeding gums and/or loose teeth), symptoms of PMS, constipation, ulcers, skin problems, allergies, diabetes, Epstein-Barr syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, and artherosclerosis. Chlorella can also help reduce cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, and prevent hangovers.
Chlorella may also help reduce blood pressure in some people with hypertension (high blood pressure). A study reported in the March 2003 issue of Original Internist showed that treatment with 10 grams of Chlorella daily for three months significantly improved blood pressure in 25% of the patients.
In a 2000 study, patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (a disorder that causes muscle aches, fatigue, and sleep disorders) were treated with high doses of chlorella. After two months, the study found significant benefits from Chlorella treatment.
Randall E. Merchant is a professor of anatomy and neurosurgery at Virginia Commonwealth University's Medical College of Virginia. Cynthia A. Andre is a clinical research coordinator and social worker at the university. Laboratory and clinical studies from Japan have reported that broken cell wall preparations and extracts of Chlorella pyrenoidosa, a unicellular green alga, as well as other Chlorella species when either given orally or injected, promote growth and healing. Furthermore, these preparations stimulate the immune system in such a way that the host is protected from infection and cancer.
Chlorella Dosage Information
Chlorella comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. Chlorella supplements can be taken daily to help maintain overall health. For best results, read and follow product label directions.
There are various forms of Chlorella, including capsules, tablets, soft gels and granules. Most chlorella marketed in the U.S. is grown in Japan and Taiwan and is processed into the various supplemental forms. Chlorella is marketed as a stand-alone supplement or combined with other so-called "green foods," such as wheat grass, barley grass and spirulina. There is no typical dosage.
Chlorella Safety & Interaction Information
Chlorella is generally regarded as safe when taken in the recommended doses. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to use caution and follow the advice of their healthcare professional, since the effects of chlorella have not been studied for these two groups. Caution may also be advised for persons known to be sensitive or allergic to iodine.
Persons taking the blood-thinning drug known as Coumadin (generic Warfarin) are advised to completely avoid chlorella, or use caution and follow the advice of their healthcare professional because some chlorella supplements contain high amounts of vitamin K that may affect the inhibition of blood clots.
Chlorella Tincture, 2 fl oz Chlorella is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, fiber, and amino acids.
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