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Herbs & Supplements
Arthrospira
Scientific Name: Spirulina
Other Names: BGA, Blue-Green Algae, Cyanobacteria, Cyanophyta
When should I be careful taking it?
Precautions
In a very few individuals, taking spirulina may have caused sudden worsening of relatively rare autoimmune conditions known as pemphigus vulgaris and dermatomyositis. Therefore, individuals who have these conditions should take spirulina carefully and discontinue taking it if their conditions seem to be getting worse.
Spirulina contains all the amino acids, including phenylalanine. Individuals with a genetic disorder known as phenylketonuria do not produce an enzyme that digests phenylalanine. As a result, phenylalanine may build up in the body, possibly causing eczema, seizures, and brain damage. Individuals with phenylketonuria should not take spirulina.
Spirulina may be contaminated with other types of blue-green algae that are harmful when ingested. Additionally, in the past, some spirulina products have been found to contain lead, mercury, or other heavy metal pollutants. Individuals who decide to take spirulina should purchase a product certified as pure from a reliable commercial source.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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When should I be careful taking it? 
