Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae, is one of the world’s most popular supplements. It is considered a “superfood” because it is rich in protein, nutrients, and antioxidants that are beneficial to the body and brain.
In addition to its benefits, growing spirulina is easy without the need for soil or outdoor space. Here are some reasons why you should grow your own algae and how you can do it at home.
1. Loaded With Nutrition
Spirulina is packed with nutrients, such as vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), copper, and iron. This tiny alga also contains decent amounts of potassium, magnesium, manganese, and essential fatty acids.
Spirulina has a higher protein content than most vegetables. The quality of the protein can be comparable to eggs, which gives you all the essential amino acids you need.
2. Has Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
The main active component in spirulina is called phycocyanin, which gives the alga its unique blue-green color. Phycocyanin has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect against oxidative damage and fight free radicals.
According to a 2014 study, 3 grams of spirulina shows more anti-inflammatory activity than five servings of fruits and vegetables.
3. Reduces Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis
Spirulina is considered an effective alternative treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis. A 2010 study found that a spirulina-eating test group showed a reduction in their allergic rhinitis symptoms like sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and nasal discharge.
4. Helps Lower Bad Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels
Multiple studies indicate that spirulina can lower total cholesterol, bad (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. These factors are linked to an increased risk of heart diseases. Spirulina has also been shown to raise good (HDL) cholesterol.
5. May Increase Muscle Strength and Endurance
According to some studies, spirulina may benefit the muscles by significantly increasing the time it takes before individuals experience muscle fatigue. Its antioxidant properties help improve muscle strength and endurance.
6. Has Many Potential Health Benefits
Numerous researchers have looked into the other health benefits of spirulina. Although further studies are needed, it is believed that the superfood may help with blood pressure, anemia, diabetes, and cancer.
How To Grow Your Spirulina at Home
To start, you will need a live spirulina culture, nutrient formulation, and transparent tank. Pour filtered water and the live culture into the tank, then add the nutrient formulation to help spirulina grow and multiply.
Place the tank under sunlight and keep the temperature around 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Stir the solution occasionally and ensure that the pH is at 8 to 10.
This is where an algae-based air purifier such as the aerium can help as well. AlgenAir’s organic air purifier makes growing algae that much easier. Simply pour the algae, nutrients and distilled water into the aerium and watch it grow. (Note: Tap water, depending on the region and chlorination levels, could be harmful to the algae.)
Making your own nutrient formulation, weighing them, and keeping them sterile usually require some degree of technical skill. When growing your own algae, there is also a risk of getting them contaminated with many other bacteria.
We want to help make growing spirulina easier for anyone who wants to do it at home — especially novice growers. To get all the materials you need to simplify this process, all you need to do is try our subscription box!
We always ship our algae fresh, so you can be sure that it is healthy and is the proper strain. Simply add the fresh algae and nutrients and dilute them with water.
By following our simple growing instructions, you can harvest your spirulina in no time!
Disclaimer: The article above lists just some of the ways in which Spirulina is beneficial. Also, this article provides information on how to grow your own Spirulina. It is not condoning that users consume the algae directly.
