In the world of healthy food and beyond, everyone is well aware of the healing properties of spirulina - a very powerful algae that works wonders for our health. It is interesting how much one small plant can bring benefits to a person, so it is not surprising that it is included in the care, recovery and most importantly - nutrition of people all over the world. What exactly is spirulina algae, what is it good for and what is the best spirulina on the market, read below. What is spirulina? Spirulina is a microscopic blue-green algae that can be found in seas, lakes and freshwater rivers around the world. It is a cyanobacterium from the family of single-celled microbes that is rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Spirulina is such a resistant algae that it thrives at a pH value of 8.5 and above and survives without problems at a temperature of around 30 degrees. This algae is autotrophic, which means that it is able to produce food on its own without the need for living energy or organic carbon sources. It contains a high concentration of chlorophyll that gives it its blue-green color and has been used for centuries as a food source and medicine in various cultures around the world. In addition to being used since time immemorial, spirulina is also known as the food of astronauts because, due to its safety and nutrition, it is suitable for long flights into space. Medicinal properties of spirulina The medicinal value of spirulina is constantly being tested in laboratories around the world because it is an algae that does not require much and gives too many benefits. Read below what spirulina is good for. Spirulina for energy and strength This algae is a rich source of protein and energy. Given that it contains as much as 60% protein, this alga is ideal for quickly replacing energy needs, and given its type and origin, it is an excellent choice for vegetarians who do not have enough protein intake due to meat. It has 8% fat and 24% carbohydrates, which makes it an incredible source of energy. Spirulina as a vitamin and mineral supplement Spirulina is a source of vitamins and minerals. It is rich in B group vitamins, riboflavin and niacin, iron, vitamin E, beta carotene and many other nutrients that are rarely found in that quantity in any plant. Antioxidants in spirulina Spirulina is rich in special antioxidants. It contains phycocyanin, an additional chlorophyll pigment that is an exceptional antioxidant. The blue pigment, more precisely the light-receiving protein complex from spirulina strongly protects cells from damage and helps fight free radicals due to oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. Sprirulina for strengthening immunity Spirulina is excellent for boosting immunity due to its high amount of vitamins C, E, B6 and B12. It is ideal for strengthening the body's immune response because it stimulates the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight against viruses, bacteria and fungal infections. Strengthening of the heart and blood vessels Spirulina has been scientifically proven to strengthen the heart and improve circulation. It contains numerous purifiers and mineral substances that significantly reduce the level of bad cholesterol, clean the arteries and improve their patency, therefore doctors often recommend spirulina to lower blood pressure and strengthen the heart and blood vessels. Due to hemoglobin similar to human, spirulina is also called "green blood" and is considered the best blood purifier in the world. Spirulina for detoxification Spirulina has large amounts of magnesium, potassium, copper and iron, as well as a significant dose of omega 3 fatty acids. It is considered the best plant for detoxifying the body and an ideal ally for healthy weight loss because it speeds up metabolism and melts fat, and at the same time strengthens the body and makes it more resistant to diseases. Spirulina face and body mask Due to the range of beneficial ingredients it possesses, spirulina is often used as a face mask. One tablespoon of spirulina powder is dissolved in a few drops of water and mixed until a paste is formed. The spirulina mask cleanses the skin of blackheads, acne and pimples, relieves irritation, removes blemishes and tightens the skin. A teaspoon of honey, olive oil or a few drops of yogurt is often added to this paste to provide additional hydration to the skin of the face and body. Alga spirulina - use Spirulina is most often used as a food source, but also as a means of care and treatment for many diseases of the skin and mucous membranes. Its use is widespread in the food industry, nutrition, medicine and pharmacology, as well as in cosmetology. Spirulina is used in the following forms: Supplementation: For ease of consumption, a large number of pharmaceutical companies offer spirulina algae in the form of tablets and capsules. The ease of use is ahead of the powder form because we can consume spirulina tablets without the need to dissolve, mix, etc. Addition to shakes, smoothies and juices: Spirulina powder is often mixed into healthy shakes and smoothies made from various fruits and vegetables. The addition of spirulina greatly enhances the nutritional value of the drink and compensates for all the necessary nutrients Food supplement: Also in powder, but in some parts of the world in the form of drops (with add