While all foods can be used medicinally some “superfoods” have an unusually high amount of beneficial nutrients and energetic vitality.
In general all green foods (especially the algae below) are detoxifying – they help to clean the blood, support the function of the liver, they decrease inflammation and acidity in the body, and increase alkalinity. They are also loaded with vitamins and minerals so they can be great for those working with deficiencies.
Now…. algae may seem like a strange thing to consume but they have been used as foods and medicines in traditional cultures around the world for thousands of years.
Remember – algae is a whole food not a supplement. This is what makes algae so unique…. Some algae come in capsules and powders but don’t be mistaken…. When we eat a “whole food” we are receiving more benefits than if we were to only consume extracted beneficial ingredients. Scientists have a hard time explaining the reason for this. I like to call it the power and mystery of the natural world!
Below I have outlined three green algae that are packed with unique healing qualities.
A word of warning: Because algae are considered energetically cold, if you feel cold often or have loose stools use algae sparingly and avoid them in colder seasons.
Three Green Food Algaes
Chlorella is an algae which is grown in fresh water.
How is it unique?
- Detox: binds with toxins that are more difficult to eliminate and helps to move them out of the body quicker and easier. It is especially useful for those dealing with heavy metal exposure and/or mercury amalgam fillings.
- Immune support: works to eliminate viruses and candida
- Blood sugar: helps to stabilize imbalance
- Weaker or colder people: the best algae for people who cannot tolerate the more energetically “cooling” and cleansing algaes like spirulina or blue green algae.
What does it contain?
Chlorella contains more chlorophyll than any other source. It is also very high in protein, vitamins and minerals (ex. iron, B vitamins, and calcium).
Who it’s not good for:
Some people find chlorella upsets their digestion. If this is true for you try another green algae product such as spirulina or blue green algae below.
How to use it:
Chlorella is usually available in tablets or packets. It can be found at most health and vitamin stores. Introduce use slowly. An average dose is around 2-4 grams a day depending on your overall condition, weight and age. When taking tablets be sure to chew them thoroughly and take it with lots of water. Because of the need to drink lots of water when using chlorella it is usually better to take it between meals as excessive water drinking while eating can inhibit digestive function.
Blue Green Algae
Klamath Lake Wild Blue Green is harvested, filtered, dried and sold and has become a popular food supplement.
How is it unique?
- Digestion: helps to ease disturbances
- Detox: especially helpful for those with signs of excess like a history of heavy and rich foods and addictions
- Brain food: supports healthy functioning
- Hot people and climates: blue green is the most energetically cold algae therefore it is most appropriate for those who feel hot often or live in hot climates
What does it contain?
Wild Blue Green algae contains very high levels of easily digestible protein, iron, enzymes and omega 3 fatty acids.
How to use it:
This algae can be bought at most health food stores as a powder or in the freezer department as “E3Live”. You can mix it in to many dishes or can be added to salad dressings, smoothies, or consumed as a liquid shot.
Spirulina has been used by the indigenous people of Mexico and Africa for millennia. Check out this green superfood to supercharge your blood, energize your immune system and as a substitute for animal based protein.
Use it for:
- Build the blood: helpful for anemia
- Protein source: much more bio-available than animal products and great to use when transitioning off a meat based diet
- Immune support: boosting function and helps with allergies
- Blood sugar: helps to stabilize imbalance
What does it contain?
Spirulina is very high in plant based protein, antioxidants, and the essential fatty acid GLA.
Who it’s not good for:
It is widely believed that spirulina contains vitamin B12 and is helpful for vegetarians lacking this important nutrient. However, studies show that the vitamin in this particular form is not assimilated into the body therefore it should not be used to bolster a deficiency of vitamin B12.
How to use it:
Spirulina is usually found at health food stores as a powder. Look for powders that have a deep green/blueish color and smell fresh. Spirulina can be added to smoothies, salad dressings and raw desserts. Do not heat spirulina when preparing it and store it in a cold environment. Most adults can take 1-2tbs. Start slowly and increase dosage.
