Superfood
Spirulina
Also known as: Blue-green algae, Arthrospira platensis, Arthrospira maxima
Nutrient-dense blue-green algae rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Supports energy, detox, and immune function.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Spirulina product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NOW Foods Certified Organic Spirulina | 87 A | $0.33 |
| 2 | Nature's Way Spirulina Micro-Algae | 84 A- | $0.33 |
| 3 | Double Wood Blue Spirulina Powder | 80 A- | $0.66 |
| 4 | Thorne Daily Greens Plus | 79 B+ | $0.83 |
| 5 | BioSchwartz Greens Superfood Powder | 77 B+ | $1.00 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Spirulina should I take?
The typical range is 1-3g daily. Safe long-term
When should I take Spirulina?
Any time. Optional.
Which form of Spirulina is best?
Powder — Versatile, mix into drinks. Other forms in the catalog: Tablets.
Is Spirulina safe?
Commonly reported: GI upset initially, Detox reactions. Serious warnings: Source quality critical (contamination risk). Safe from clean sources
Which Spirulina supplement scores highest?
NOW Foods Certified Organic Spirulina, at 87/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Nutritional support
- Energy
- Detoxification
- Antioxidant
- Immune support
What systematic reviews concluded
Outcomes that systematic reviews of Spirulina reached a verdict on: 8 with a benefit, 2 with no effect, 1 unclear. Each is quoted from a review and linked to it on PubMed. How these were read.
Reviews found a benefit (8)
“Algae-derived supplements-particularly Spirulina and Chlorella-may modestly enhance aerobic exercise performance and attenuate exercise-induced muscle damage under certain conditions.” PMID 42075102
“Regarding recovery, CK concentrations were significantly reduced (SMD = -0.78, 95% CI: -1.28 to -0.28).” PMID 42075102
“The findings of this study indicated that Spirulina supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP levels, whereas its effects on IL-6 and TNF-α were not statistically significant.” PMID 41873104
“For iron overload, Amlodipine and Spirulina significantly improved cardiac T2*, contributing to cardioprotection.” PMID 41353598
“Both A. platensis and C. vulgaris improved hematological parameters, including hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and red blood cell counts.” PMID 41255135
“This study demonstrates that spirulina supplementation effectively reduces the risk of CVD in adults by improving glucose homeostasis, dyslipidemia, blood pressure, anthropometric indexes, and inflammation.” PMID 40953712
and 2 more.
Reviews found no effect (2)
“The findings of this study indicated that Spirulina supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP levels, whereas its effects on IL-6 and TNF-α were not statistically significant.” PMID 41873104
“no significant effect was shown on body mass index, even after sensitivity analysis (SMD = -0.53 Kg/m2 ; 95% CI: -1.25, 0.19; p = .149; I2 = 92.9%, p < .001)” PMID 32967062
Not enough to say: rheumatoid arthritis.
How it works
- Rich in protein (60-70%)
- Contains phycocyanin antioxidant
- Provides B vitamins and iron
- Chlorophyll for detox
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-3g daily
- Timing
- Any time
- With food
- Optional
- Duration
- Safe long-term
- Special populations
- General nutrition
Forms
- Powder
- Tablets
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset initially
- Detox reactions
Contraindications
- Autoimmune conditions (immune stimulation)
- PKU
Products containing Spirulina
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Spirulina on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Good evidence for nutritional support, antioxidant, and immune effects
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Spirulina compared head-to-head
Related in Superfood
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.