Chlorella is a single celled algae that some scientists believe may be among the Earth's oldest living organisms, but it was only in the 1960's that Japanese scientists began to study chlorella as a tool of good health. Natural health enthusiasts know chlorella well as a detoxifier, immune stimulator, and excellent source of general nutrition.
Typical Constituents (per 100 g)
Moisture- 4.4%Protein- 68.3 gTotal lipid (fat)- 11%Carbohydrate- 5.4%Fiber- 5%Chlorophyll- 2.86 mgCGF- 18.8%Calcium- 190 mgIron- 139 mgMagnesium- 308 mgPhosphorus- 895 mgPotassium- 864 mgVitamin A- 40,200 iuVitamin E- 17.2 mgVitamin C- 91 mgand over 18 beneficial amino acids
Parts Used
The entire plant, dried. The cell wall is practically impenetrable, and indigestible in most regards. When purchasing Chlorella, make sure the outer cell wall has either been cracked or opened.
Typical Preparations
Powder to be added to drinks and smoothies, and may be made into a capsule or extract.
Summary
No group of people benefits more from chlorella than women with fibromyalgia. A study at the Medical College of Virginia found that taking 10 grams (3 tablespoons) of chlorella a day for two months substantially reduced pain, although it did not eliminate it. Other studies at the same medical school have found that chlorella reduces symptoms of ulcerative colitis and hypertension, health problems frequently occurring in women who have fibromyalgia. In one study, daily supplementation with chlorella was seen to reduce high blood pressure, lower serum cholesterol levels, accelerate wound healing and enhance immune functions.