Spirulina - ljekovita cijanobakterija

Abstract

Species of the genus Arthrospira are multicellular fi lamentous cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). Th ey are commonly known as spirulina. Addition of these microalgae to human diet is an emerging trend. High protein content that reaches up to 70 % of dried biomass along with fi ber, carotenoids, minerals and vitamins is a reason why spirulina is considered as a superfood. Consumption of algal biomass has a long tradition dating back to indigenous people of Africa and Mexico area. Spirulina is very rich in pigments. In particular, C-phycocyanin accounts for more than 10 % of dried biomass. Th is pigment is being widely studied for its anti-infl ammatory and antioxidant properties. Spirulina biomass and C-phycocyanin have a very good safety profi le. Th is article is a review on biomedical applications of spirulina biomass as a chemoprotective agent, lipid lowering agent and metabolic modulator, antiinfl ammatory, immunostimulatory, and anti-cancer agent