Nature can provide you with valuable weapons against cancer, but like all things, it's up to you to use them. Although the Japanese have known about and used spirulina for medicinal purposes for years, this form of microalgae is still not "mainstream" in American diets. Spirulina natively grows in alkaline, warm-water lakes. Demand for this whole food has sparked the cultivation of spirulina for commercial use in specially designed algae farms. As a result of this new distribution, you can buy spirulina supplements in your local health food store. Western medicine is finally taking note of spirulina's anti-cancer benefits, and you owe it to yourself to do the same.
Potent cancer-fighting phytonutrients
Spirulina's blue-green color is more than a pretty facade; it is also the source of much of its cancer-prevention abilities. In
Healing with Whole Foods, Paul Pitchford writes, "Important to note in the area of prevention, spirulina is richly supplied with the blue pigment phycocyanin, a biliprotein which has been shown to inhibit cancer-colony formation."
Like tree leaves, spirulina also obtains its color from chlorophyll. According to Alan Keith Tillotson's "One Earth Herbal Sourcebook," the high levels of chlorophyll in spirulina may explain its ability to stop cancer colonies from forming. As Tillotson writes, "Foods and herbs that contain high levels of chlorophyll show pharmacological evidence of cancer prevention, perhaps because pigments in green vegetables (and algae) … bind with and thus stimulate excretion of cancer-causing chemicals." If cancer cells are stopped before they can form colonies, your body's naturally occurring cancer cells won't be able to run amok and develop into symptomatic cancer.
If you're not familiar with the link between cancer and immune system function, you may have been a little confused by the last point. You might be thinking, "Wait a minute. The reason why I don't have cancer cells in me is because I've never been diagnosed with cancer." The truth is, however, we all have cancer cells within us. Cancer cells develop within our bodies all the time, but our immune systems normally fight them before they develop into the disease we know as cancer. In other words, if you are diagnosed as "having cancer," that means only that your immune system didn't kill your body's naturally-occurring cancer cells the way it was designed to. If you'd like to read more about this phenomenon, you can find many articles about it on News Target's cancer page.
Boosting immune system function
This immune system / cancer link explains why spirulina effectively prevents cancer. Spirulina is best known as an immune booster, and this property has medicinal implications far beyond cancer prevention. In
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies, Mark Stengler, ND, writes, "Spirulina stimulates natural killer cells and similar anti-immune components of the immune system that can help fight cancer cells." Furthermore, these spirulina-stimulated killer cells can fight illnesses other than cancer, ranging from the common cold to HIV.
Scientists have been exploring spirulina's ability to treat cancer, although most of the research in this area has been exclusively related to oral cancer. Animal studies repeatedly show that spirulina hinders the growth of oral cancer. Moreover, Indian scientists conducted the first human study of spirulina-based cancer treatment in 1995. "[These scientists] reported a complete regression of pre-cancerous mouth lesions in 45 percent of subjects who were given extracts of spirulina for 12 months," wrote Earl Mindell, RPh, PhD, in Earl Mindell's Secret Remedies.
Consider adding spirulina to your diet, especially if your current diet contains foods high in animal protein, such as meat and cheese. In Healing with Whole Foods, Paul Pitchford writes, "The special form of protein in spirulina benefits those with problems resulting from excessive animal protein, which does not assimilate well and further burdens the body with waste products." If you already have cancer, making a few diet modifications, such as adding spirulina and restricting meat and cheese, can make all the difference in your recovery, according to Patrick Quillin's Beating Cancer with Nutrition and Joseph B. Marion's Anti-Aging Manual. This difference can be the deciding factor between life and death.
[Ed. Note: The top source of U.S.-grown spirulina remains Cyanotech, which grows spirulina in aquaculture farms on the coast of Kona, Hawaii, using pristine deep ocean seawater.]
The experts speak on spirulina and cancer:
More than 100 published scientific references help support the case for the health benefits of spirulina. Some studies demonstrate that spirulina seems to possess anticancer effects and antiviral properties. Also, animal studies show that it is a powerful tonic for the immune system.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 427
A study reported in Nutrition and Cancer (1995) that was conducted among tobacco chewers in India reported a complete regression of pre-cancerous mouth lesions in 45 percent of subjects who were given extracts of spirulina for twelve months. This was the first human study using spirulina as a cancer therapy, and undoubtedly, more studies will follow.
Earl Mindells Secret Remedies by Earl Mindell RPh PhD, page 77
The unsaturated fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and its associated prostaglandin PGEi have been researched extensively in recent years, notably in the area of immunity. Most people are deficient in GLA, but the wealth of GLA applications (listed earlier in the Oils and Fats chapter) is economically obtained by using spirulina, one of the richest sources.
Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 193
Spirulina's pure protein, which arrives within the context of massive amounts of beta-carotene, chlorophyll, fatty-acid GLA, and other nutrients, is especially helpful to those who are overweight, diabetic, hypoglycemic, or suffering from cancer, arthritis, or other degenerative diseases.
Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 164
Spirulina and its extracts have shown to have anticancer activity in animal studies. Spirulina stimulates natural killer cells and similar anti-immune components of the immune system that can help fight cancer cells. Laboratory studies also show that spirulina polysaccharides can work to repair genetic material that has been damaged from toxins or from radiation.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 428
Spirulina is a blue-green alga found naturally in alkaline, warm-water lakes. It is cultivated for commercial use in specially designed algae farms. Spirulina contains concentrations of nutrients unlike any other single grain, herb, or plant. It has the essential fatty acids gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), linoleic and arachidonic acids; is virtually the only vegetarian source of vitamin B12, which is (needed for healthy red blood cells; and contains significant amounts of iron, protein (60 to 70 percent), essential amino acids, the nucleic acids RNA and DNA, and chlorophyll. Spirulina is a naturally digestible food that helps to protect the immune system, reduce blood cholesterol levels, and boost the absorption of necessary minerals. Taking spirulina in supplement form is beneficial while fasting, as it supplies the nutrients needed to cleanse and heal, while also curbing the appetite. If you have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), you may benefit from using this food supplement.
Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 33
Spirulina is a blue-green algae rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids. In research conducted by biologist Padmanabhan Nair of the USDA-ARS Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center in Maryland, a 1-gram spirulina capsule was given daily for a year to 44 tobacco and betel nut chewers in India who had developed precancerous lesions in the mouth (the condition is prevalent in southwestern India). Complete regression of lesions was observed in 20 of 44 (45%) subjects taking the supplement and in only 3 of 43 (7%) taking a placebo (inactive agent). Within 1 year of stopping spirulina, 9 of 20 (45%) complete responders developed recurrent lesions. spirulina was not associated with toxicity.
Reducing Cancer Risk by Richard Harkness Pharm FASCP, page 131
An Oregon State University study in which laboratory animals were exposed to a potent cancer-causing substance found that animals given a chlorophyll supplement prior to exposure developed far fewer tumors than animals who were not given the supplement. The researchers believe that chlorophyll may reduce the risk of developing skin, stomach, colon, and liver cancers. Take a chlorophyll or sea-greens supplement, such as spirulina and blue-green algae, as directed on the product label.
Smart Medicine For Healthier Living by Janet Zand LAc OMD Allan N Spreen MD CNC James B LaValle RPh ND, page 164
Spirulina \spir-u-'le-n3\ Any cyanobacteria in the genus spirulina. A traditional food source in parts of Africa and Mexico, spirulina is an exceptionally rich source of vitamins, minerals, and protein, and one of the few nonanimal sources of vitamin B12. It is now being widely studied for its possible anticancer properties.
Britannica Encyclopedia Volume Two, page 1761
spirulina—The blue-green microalgae spirulina sold in natural food stores in America, have been found to be a rich natural source of proteins, carotenoids, and other micronutrients. Experimental studies in animal models have demonstrated an inhibitory effect of spirulina algae on oral cancers.
Earl Mindells Secret Remedies by Earl Mindell RPh PhD, page 77
Some micro-algae have very favorable nutritional profiles for cancer and immune therapies. spirulina, chlorella, and wild blue-green (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae) provide cellular protection with exceptional amounts of beta carotene (provitamin A) and chlorophyll; dunaliella is the highest known natural source of beta carotene. Chlorella, the alga to emphasize in those with the greatest deficiency, stimulates immunity in the treatment of all degenerative diseases by means of the "Chlorella Growth Factor" (CGF). Spirulina is rich in phycocyanin, a pigment with anti-cancer properties. Spirulina is also the highest plant source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid which strengthens immunity and inhibits excessive cell division. Wild blue-green is good for drying moisture from tissues which support viral, bacterial, and fungal growths. Either of these bitter micro-algae often work well with chlorella or spirulina. (See "Micro-Algae Dosage" and "General Guidelines," pages 197 and 202, for help in selecting the appropriate micro-algae.)
Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 378
Phycotene complex of Beta-Carotene extracted from spirulina and Dunaliella algaes (in Carotene 7 from Professional Metabolics, and SuperBeta-Carotene from Source Naturals) using 15 other natural Carotenes, vegetable pigments, and other micronutrients for synergistic effect. Beta-Carotene increases Natural Killer cells; detoxifies certain chemicals, counters damage from chemical stress andradiation; Beta-Carotene given with radiation therapy rid tumors in animals. Apollution protector, quenches damaging singlet oxygen, neutralizes free radicals, protects from carcinogenic exposure in polluted air causing the most common U. S. and European male malignancy; protects from the vascular constricting effect of toluene diamine toxic compound TDA; disease fighter slows cancerous chemicals like DMBA, PCB, and Nitrogen Dioxide in brownish smog; helps alcoholism. Prevents kidney, bladder, and gallstones; cystitis, albuminuria(l capsule daily), and maintains alkalinity.
Anti-Aging Manual by Joseph B Marion, page 50
...carotenoids (from spirulina and Dunaliella algae) plus vitamin E and canthaxanthin were injected in animal tumors, with the result being complete regression as mediated by an increase in Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) in macrophages in the tumor region33 ^ in 20 patients with mouth cancer who were given high doses of radiation and chemo, beta-carotene provided significant protection against mouth sores (oral mucositis) induced by medical therapy, although there was no significant difference in survival rates in animals.
Beating Cancer With Nutrition by Patrick Quillin, page 159
Leukoplakia (an often precancerous condition marked by white thickened patches on the mucous membranes of the cheeks, gums, or tongue) is responsive to spirulina, a source of proteins, carotenoids, and other micronutrients (Sankaranarayanan et al. 1995). An inverse relationship between beta-carotene and thyroid carcinoma was observed in both papillary and follicular carcinomas (D'Avanzo et al. 1997). A high dietary intake of beta-carotene appears a protective (though modest) factor for the development of ovarian cancer (Huncharek et al. 2001).
Disease Prevention And Treatment by Life Extension Foundation, page 220
The special form of protein in spirulina benefits those with problems resulting from excessive animal protein, which does not assimilate well and further burdens the body with waste products. Thus, people who have eaten too many animal products and refined foods—typically those who are overweight, diabetic, hypo-glycemic, cancerous, arthritic, or suffering from similar degenerations—often benefit from the relatively pure quality of the protein in spirulina. Of course, spirulina protein is in the context of massive amounts of beta-carotene, chlorophyll, fatty acid GLA, and other nutrients.
Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 192
Important to note in the area of prevention, spirulina is richly supplied with the blue pigment phycocyanin, a biliprotein which has been shown to inhibit cancer-colony formation. Predominant blue pigmentation in food is rare. The blue color tends to promote astringency, a drawing together. The chemical reality of spirulina's blue color is demonstrated by its effect in the brain. Here phycocyanin helps draw together amino acids for neurotransmitter formation, which increases mental capacity.
Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 192
Similarly, the nucleic acids and beta-carotene in micro-algae are effective for retarding aging and fortifying immunity. As discussed earlier, those who are deficient and/or cold will usually do better taking spirulina or chlorella and using cereal grass carefully.
Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 206
The liberal use of spirulina and other chlorophyll foods supplies the liver with immune-enhancing essential fatty acids—particularly the omega-3 and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) variety—that it may have been lacking since birth. Introducing these foods into the diet of those with essential-fatty-acid deficiency, regardless of the person's age, encourages more complete liver function.
Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 290
Spirulina contains the blue pigment phycocyanin, a biliprotein that has been shown to inhibit cancer colony formation.128
Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 164
spirulina activates many of the different immune cells, including macrophages, T-cells, B-cells, and natural killer cells. It also activates the organs involved with immune function such as the spleen, liver, bone marrow, lymph nodes, tonsils, and thymus gland.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 427
It may also help people who have mouth cancer. In one study, tobacco chewers who had a type of mouth disease called oral leukoplakia were given 1 gram a day of spirulina for one year. Nearly half of those who took the supplement showed marked improvement.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 428
As mentioned, spirulina stimulates many components of the immune system. Special extracts of spirulina have also shown potent antiviral activity. One type of spirulina known as spirulina platensis was shown to inhibit the HIV virus (HIV-1) in a test-tube study.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 429
".. In one study, tobacco chewers who had a type of mouth disease called oral leukoplakia were given 1 gram a day of spirulina for one year." Babu M et al., Evaluation of chemopre-vention of orail cancer with spirulina. Nutrition and Cancer 1995; 24(2):197-202.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 524
Though seaweed is just starting to enter the American diet, the Japanese have used this vitamin- and mineral-rich sea vegetable for years. Not only has seaweed been shown to reduce the risk of cancer, help prevent blood clots and lower blood pressure, but Japanese scientists have discovered that it can also help detoxify the blood and maintain energy levels. How? Recent Japanese research on a kind of seaweed called spirulina indicated that it helps regulate blood sugar levels. By taking spirulina, people are able to maintain consistent energy levels. In addition, because spirulina is so high in protein, minerals and essential fatty acids, it is a healthy energy food that is especially useful for people on low-calorie diets. Kelp is another seaweed that is an energy-booster.
Natural Health Secrets by Glenn W Geelhoed MD Jean Barilla MS, page 22
".. Children fed 5 grams of spirulina tablets daily have been shown to make dramatic recoveries.." Evets LB et al., Means to normalize the levels of immunoglobulin E using the food supplement spirulina. Grodenski State Medical University, Russian Federation Committee of Patents and Trade, January 15,1994.
A Natural Physician's Healing Therapies by Mark Stengler ND, page 524
Health Benefits: spirulina lowers cholesterol, suppresses fatty accumulation in the liver, prevents tumor formation, enhances the immune system, and protects kidneys.
New Whole Foods Encyclopedia by Rebecca Wood, page 322
Some nutritional practitioners recommend spirulina therapeutically to lower cholesterol levels and boost immunity. It is sometimes sprinkled on foods as a condiment.
Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay Well By Mark Mayell, page 84
Green-food concentrates are chlorophyll-rich supplements. Most are derived from microalgae (such as spirulina, blue-green algae, or chlorella) or from the young grasses of cereal plants (such as barley, wheat, and alfalfa). They are particularly rich in such nutrients as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and trace elements. Chlorophyll acts as an antioxidant and may have medicinal benefits against cancer and immune problems.
Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay Well By Mark Mayell, page 229
Spirulina platensis extracts have been demonstrated to enhance macrophage function in cats and to enhance humoral and cell-mediated immune functions in chickens. The mechanism of these effects is unknown.
PDR For Nutritional Supplements by Sheldon Saul Hendle and David Rorvik, page 438
Spirulina has shown some indication of having antiviral effects in preliminary in vitro and animal studies. There is also evidence of a preliminary nature that it might favorably affect some immune functions and have some hepatoprotective capability.
PDR For Nutritional Supplements by Sheldon Saul Hendle and David Rorvik, page 438
Spirulina and some of its constituents have shown an ability to favorably affect various immune functions.
PDR For Nutritional Supplements by Sheldon Saul Hendle and David Rorvik, page 438
Wheat-grass, barley grass, and spirulina, often referred to as green foods, are excellent sources of beta-carotene, chlorophyll, and minerals. They are good for helping to treat all colon disorders, HIV/AIDS, cancer, and virtually every other type of illnesses. Spirulina is high in protein, beta-carotene, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and nutrients essential for the formation of hormones. It is good for vegetarians because it is one of the few available vegetable sources of vitamin B12, which is lacking in most vegetarians' diets. It is also rich in calcium, iron, RNA, DNA, and trace minerals.
Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 100
If you need a mineral supplement, alfalfa is a good choice. It has helped many arthritis sufferers. Alfalfa, wheat-grass, barley, and spirulina, all of which contain chlorophyll, have been found to aid in the healing of intestinal ulcers, gastritis, liver disorders, eczema, hemorrhoids, asthma, high blood pressure, anemia, constipation, body and breath odor, bleeding gums, infections, burns, athlete's foot, and cancer.
Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and James F Balch MD
Spirulina is a naturally digestible food that aids in protecting the immune system, in cholesterol reduction, and in mineral absorption.
Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and James F Balch MD, page 80
Vitamin deficiencies have been associated with oral cancer. Spirulina has been found in several studies to inhibit the growth of oral tumors.
Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and James F Balch MD, page 259
Spirulina—The blue-green microalgae spirulina sold in natural food stores in America, have been found to be a rich natural source of proteins, carotenoids, and other micronutrients. Experimental studies in animal models have demonstrated an inhibitory effect of spirulina algae on oral cancers.
Secret Remedies by Earl Mindell RPh PhD, page 77
Because spirulina is so nutritious, some researchers believe that it can boost immunity. In one study, Japanese investigators found that mice that were fed spirulina had more antibody-producing cells than those deprived of it. And in a study from India, pregnant rats that were fed spirulina gave birth to more pups in one litter than pregnant rats that didn't eat spirulina.
The Complete Book Of Alternative Nutrition by Selene Y Craig, page 232
One study showed that spirulina supplementation resulted in significantly higher iron storage and increased hemoglobin content in the blood of pregnant rats. Foods and herbs that contain high levels of chlorophyll show pharmacological evidence of cancer prevention, perhaps because pigments in green vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and lettuce bind with and thus stimulate excretion of cancer-causing chemicals. Even more interesting is a report from one researcher that "Given their exclusive dietary origin, . . . chlorophyll metabolites may represent essential nutrients that coordinate cellular metabolism (through nuclear receptors)."
The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook by Alan Keith Tillotson, page 84
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