Spirulina is a blue-green algae. It has been a food source for the native people of Mexico and Africa for thousands of years. It is also one of the latest to join the growing list of superfoods, enjoying a surge in popularity.
Spirulina is far from something new, though. It isn’t a passing fad, either. In fact, it has been highly praised for its health benefits for centuries.
Health Benefits of Spirulina
Spirulina is a great source of nutrients, including thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), and niacin (vitamin B3). It is also a good source of essential minerals, such as iron, copper, and potassium, and even essential fatty acids.
Consuming spirulina can also help increase energy levels and improve mental clarity. It also reduces inflammation and helps lower bad cholesterol levels, as well as boosting good cholesterol.
Powdered spirulina is easy to add to food and drinks, while capsules and tablets are convenient options when on the go. However, fresh or live spirulina offers greater nutrient and health benefits than its dried and processed forms.
What You Need to Grow Spirulina
Learning how to grow spirulina yourself at home is fairly easy. Here are the five basic tools and requirements you will need.
- As a type of algae, spirulina is only grown on water. Avoid using tap water, as its chlorine content may harm the algae culture. For best results, use distilled water with a pH level between 8 and 10.
- Use a transparent container, such as the aerium, for sufficient sunlight. It can be made from either plastic or glass.
- Sunlight and shade. Spirulina requires a fair amount of sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight may also harm spirulina, especially during its early stages, so it also needs enough cover or shade.
- Proper temperature. For optimal growing results, it is best to keep the tank’s temperature between 55 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Live spirulina culture. Growing spirulina does not require seeds but instead live algae culture. This can be bought online.
- Adding nutrient formulation to the spirulina water tank will help it grow and multiply faster.
How to Grow Your Own Spirulina at Home
Many people who try to grow spirulina do so using your aerium and the subscription algae kit. Here’s how to grow your own spirulina at home:
- Fill the tank with non-chlorinated, filtered water with a pH level of 8 to 10.
- Use litmus paper to check the water’s alkaline levels.
- Set it up near a sunny window or under artificial grow lights.
- Stir the tank’s water occasionally to keep its pH value constantly between 8 to 10.
- Put the spirulina algae live culture into the water tank.
- Pour in the nutrient formulation or fertilizers to help the spirulina grow faster.
Your aerium comes with everything you need to get started!
Grow Spirulina Easily With AlgenAir
AlgenAir makes the at-home growing process of spirulina much easier. Our algae-based purifier set includes a water container, spirulina culture, and nutrient formulation. All you need is to add distilled water and turn on the air purifying device.
The aerium algae air purifier has a premium glass design and is light and easy to move around. It also comes with LED light for continuous photosynthesis even during the night.
Simply order your aerium and follow the growing instructions to enjoy all the benefits of spirulina harvests and better indoor air quality.