Spirulina ( Arthrospira platensis ) is a non-toxic blue-green algae which is sold in powder form. It became famous after it was successfully used by NASA as a dietary supplement for astronauts on space missions. The main active component in spirulina is phycocyanobilin. However, it is also a source of high protein (70%) and contains many vitamins, especially Vitamin B12 and provitamin A (beta-carotenes), and minerals, particularly iron. Spirulina exhibits anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and liver protective properties.
Lokapirnasari, Widya Paramita, Andreas Berny Yulianto, and Djoko Legowo. "The Effect of Spirulina as Feed Additive to Myocardial Necrosis and Leukocyte of Chicken on Avian Influenza (H5N1) Virus Infection" Procedia Chemistry 18 (2016)
