Have you ever tried spirulina for psoriasis and do you know why it’s beneficial for skin health? Spirulina is a blue-green micro-algae found in both fresh and salty waters. It thrives in various alkaline water environments such as ponds, rivers and lakes. Spirulina is considered a superfood and contains very high protein levels. Furthermore, it is packed with vital vitamins including the B complex vitamins and is a good source of essential minerals such as zinc and iron.
It not only serves as a suitable home remedy for psoriasis but also as a great substance to detoxify your body. Even it is not a cure for psoriasis, this type of algae offers numerous health benefits especially when it comes to battling the symptoms of psoriasis. Herein are some of the reasons why I recommend using spirulina for psoriasis.
Spirulina is a powerful antioxidant
The anti-oxidative properties of Spirulina are comparable to those of the blueberry fruit, which is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. These properties are a result of its high and diverse phytonutrient and carotenoid content.
In the treatment of psoriasis, the healing of the skin is accelerated when the production of free radicals is curbed. (source) Free radicals in the skin cause substantial skin cell damage and induce inflammation.
As such, adding spirulina to your diet increases the metabolism of the skin by eliminating any present toxins and free radicals.
Spirulina helps reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis
Spirulina contains an essential omega 6 fatty acid known as GLA (Gamma-linoleic acid) GLA, which is vital in alleviating some of the key symptoms of psoriasis (source).
GLA is known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties, which make it a helpful ingredient for psoriasis.
Furthermore, the fatty acid is instrumental in the management of other causative agents of psoriasis such as digestive disorders and hormonal imbalances in the body. Spirulina is a great source of GLA, surpassing the more conventional sources such as primrose oil and black currant oil.
Also, spirulina is alkalizing. An alkaline diet can help with psoriasis as explained by Matt Ludwig.
Spirulina improves immunity
Psoriasis stems from disorders arising from the body’s immune system. Spirulina is a great immunity booster thanks to its rich mineral content. The iron is essential in the formation of both the red blood cells and the pathogen-fighting cells of the body.
Spirulina greatly benefits people with problems arising from a weak immune system.
It promotes good bacteria
Did you know that there’s a link between gut health and skin?
The gut needs “friendly bacteria” to function properly and prevent inflammation. Studies have suggested that spirulina can increase the bacterial strains that are beneficial. In fact, spirulina could enhance the effect of probiotics and be helpful for psoriasis management (source).
If you suffer from psoriasis, I recommend that you eat probiotic-rich foods and include spirulina in your diet!
Spirulina adds nutritional value to your diet
The treatment of psoriasis is characterized by a closely watched, all-natural diet that is often characterized by the replacement of some foods with healthier alternatives.
While this is ultimately beneficial to the health of your skin, nutritional deficiencies are often a risk and in the long term, it might cause more harm and good.
Spirulina, being the highly beneficial food supplement it is, is packed with many vital nutrients. When you incorporate Spirulina in your diet, you will not only help alleviate the symptoms of this skin condition but you will also be providing your body with much needed nutrients.
It provides a healthy and holistic replacement for the nutrients you lose when you cut down the consumption of the unhealthy foods that you should avoid when dealing with psoriasis.
The cons of using spirulina
The main drawback of consuming Spirulina is that it is only as healthy as the water in which it grows. These algae may absorb toxins such as iodine or lead if the water is polluted.
Adding it to your diet in high dosages may cause counter effects, which is something you might want to avoid. So, the proper dosage of 1-2 teaspoons per day is the first step towards getting the best of spirulina. Getting over the recommended dosage may cause an upset stomach.
It can also interact negatively with certain drugs if you are under medication (source).
These algae are also not suitable for people with phenylketonuria or autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Additionally, it possesses a strong flavor that requires it to be masked sufficiently before consumption.
But if you incorporate high-quality spirulina to recipes, it will cover the strong flavor! Preparation of Spirulina is as easy and as enjoyable as fixing it into a healthy smoothie.
How to use Spirulina for psoriasis? Try this smoothie recipe!
One of the best attributes of Spirulina as an effective remedy for psoriasis is its ease of consumption. Dry Spirulina powder is easily available in different brands and types.
Here’s a great smoothie recipe containing spirulina powder: (source)
Ingredients
- 1 cup of frozen mixed berries
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons of organic spirulina powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of hemp seeds (on top)
Preparation
- Simply blend the ingredients in a blender for 30-45 seconds or until they obtain a smooth texture and then serve cold.
- Add hemp seeds and a few blueberries on top
Alternatively, you can also try this delicious guacamole recipe with spirulina or buy organic spirulina capsules if it’s easier for you to take spirulina in supplement form.
Also watch this video with Dr. Mercola who talks about the benefits of spirulina and why you should choose organic spirulina:
Feel free to share your personal healthy Spirulina recipes or your experience with this super-food in the comments section below. For other tips for psoriasis, read my post What Works Best for Psoriasis!
Benefits of Spirulina for Skin
- Sources
- Disclaimer
Article by
J. Beck
Sources for this article include:
- (1) https://www.optiderma.com/articles/benefits-spirulina-skin-cancer/
- (2) https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-spirulina.html
- (3) https://www.doctorshealthpress.com/food-and-nutrition-articles/spirulina-health-benefits
- (4) https://www.livestrong.com/article/417859-the-disadvantages-of-spirulina/
- (5) https://www.healthysmoothiehq.com/spirulina-green-superfood-smoothie
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DISCLAIMER
The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner.
If you are allergic to the foods, herbs, essential oils, any remedies listed here, you must of course avoid them. For example, consuming food that you’re sensitive to will only cause more (not reduce!) inflammation.
Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. All legal mentions »
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