Spirulina for Allergy Relief
A randomized double-blind trial found spirulina 2 g/day significantly improved nasal discharge, sneezing, and congestion in allergic rhinitis, with reduced IL-4. Replication is limited but results are encouraging.
Overview
Verdict
One well-known RCT showed spirulina improved allergic rhinitis symptoms versus placebo.
How It Works
Dosing & Protocol
Typical dose
- Recommended dose
- 2 g/day spirulina powder or tablets.
- Expected timeframe
- 4–8 weeks.
Protocol
- form
- Arthrospira platensis powder or tablets from a manufacturer testing for microcystin contamination and heavy metals; contamination is the main quality issue with this supplement
- duration
- 12-24 weeks - the Cingi trial ran 6 months
- co factor
- Take with food. Evidence is mixed. The most cited trial, by Cingi and colleagues, randomised 150 patients with allergic rhinitis to spirulina 2 g/day or placebo for 6 months and found significant improvement in nasal discharge, sneezing, congestion and itching. An earlier study by Mao and colleagues found spirulina reduced IL-4 production, supporting a Th2-modulating mechanism. Against this, trials are few, small, mostly from single centres, and have not been replicated by independent groups, and spirulina products vary enormously in composition. The direction is consistent but the evidence base is thin.
- titration
- Increase to 2 g/day, the dose used in the positive allergic rhinitis trials; up to 8 g/day has been used in other indications
- starting dose
- 1 g/day with food for the first week to check tolerance
Evidence
No studies are yet linked to both Spirulina and Allergy Relief.
Safety
Caveats
Choose products tested for microcystin contamination. Mild GI upset possible.
Less likely to help if
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.
Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.