Spirulina extract may reverse pain sensitivity

C-phycocyanin, a compound found in blue green algae like spirulina, may reduce inflammation and have pain killing effects, suggests a new study.

Increasing doses of C-phycocyanin reduced levels of inflammatory markers in rats administered carrageenan, which is known to induce an inflammatory response, according to Taiwanese findings published in Anesthesia & Analgesia.

If the study can be repeated in humans it offers promise for preventing chronic inflammation, brought about by an over-expression or lack of control of the normal protective mechanism. Chronic inflammation has been linked to range of conditions linked to heart disease, osteoporosis, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s, type-2 diabetes, and arthritis.

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