Hawaiian Spirulina: The Superfood Binder with Heart, Immune & Whole-Body Benefits

Jun 30, 2025

We have to talk about an astounding supplement I use frequently in my health routine! Hawaiian spirulina! Wonderful for iron balance, detox support, heart health, and so much more!

What Is Spirulina?

Spirulina is a blue-green algae (technically a cyanobacterium) that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It’s one of the oldest life forms on Earth, dating back 3.5 billion years, and was a staple in the diet of ancient civilizations like the Aztecs.

What makes spirulina extraordinary is its complete nutrient profile: it’s a complete protein, rich in chlorophyll, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and unique compounds like phycocyanin.

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One of my favorite podcasts “Extreme Health Radio” interviewed an old school wellness guru Susan Smith Jones. She had some fascinating comments on spirulina and I think it’s vital to have you read them before we dive more deeply into this wonderful health aide.

“And then Hippocrates, more than 2400 years ago, the father of medicine, said let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.

And he definitely knew what he was talking about. And since his time, we've had thousands of scientific studies that have shown that food can be your best medicine and the single greatest protector of health.

Now, my favorite super food in the world is a spirulina that comes from Hawaii.

You know, it's Hawaiian spirulina, but there have been over 500 studies done on spirulina. It's a microalgae that has been scientifically proven to do so much for the body from boost the immune system, to increase energy, to help with weight loss, reduce inflammation and stress, and also to detoxify the body. And spirulina, and they're all different kinds on the market, but the purest and safest and one that's organic.

And they also, they have this 90-acre farm over on the Kona Coast of Hawaii. By the way, I don't sell any products, but it's just one that I've taken for just about 30 years.

And I know that's the main reason I haven't been sick and all this time, not even a cold or the flu.

But they gather water from 2,000 feet below the ocean that has never seen the light or touched air. And that's, so it's filled with trace minerals, over 100 nutrients, and it's all raw. But let's relate this to detoxification.

Spirulina is really rich and, by the way, I take 3,000 milligrams a day, in either powder or tablet form. When I'm under extra stress, I go up to 6,000 milligrams a day. But if you go to articles and you scroll down, I've got about a dozen articles with lots of studies about the spirulina and the Hawaiian astaxanthin.

But spirulina is rich in chlorophyll, and that's an incredibly effective blood cleansing agent. In fact, the spirulina contains 10 times the amount of chlorophyll per volume than what's found in other green type of vegetables. And there's a component of spirulina called, I love this word, phycocyanin.

And I've got a whole article under articles on my website on phycocyanin, which has been found to be one of the most effective detoxifiers of your kidneys, your liver, your gallbladder, and all kinds of heavy metals, including mercury in your body and the removal of radiation. And because I take three to six grams of the Hawaiian spirulina a day, that's why, Justin, I'm not worried about any radiation coming over from Japan.

Yeah, we had Bob Capelli on from New Tracks Hawaii on episode 275, and he was talking all about that whole idea that you mentioned, where they get the water from 2,000 feet below the surface.

Yeah, I know Bob. He's absolutely one of the greatest human beings I've ever met.

I love him. Yeah, he's great.

He was so neat.

Yeah, I know. And so, you know, so he's totally into the Hawaiian spirulina, obviously.

He is, yeah. Yeah, I know. So what a lot of people don't realize is that, you know, a lot of people think about detoxification and cleansing is doing some sort of herbal cleanse, colonics and enemas. And although those are incredible ways, you can start with just maybe doing some, a few supplements and start eating more water-rich food and living foods, right? And you can start there.

Yes, water, high water content foods like produce, and then fresh juices. If you have a juicer, great. If you don't, maybe you have a juice place in your neighborhood.

I'm lucky to have a few here. Green smoothies are also terrific. I always put a teaspoon of the Hawaiian Sparalina in my green smoothie.

And it doesn't matter if I'm detoxifying or not. When I am, I take a little bit more, but you know, I take it every single day. The Hawaiian Sparalina and the Astaxanthin have replaced about, I'm almost embarrassed to tell you, but about 35 vitamin bottles on my kitchen counter.

So now I just take those two and three others. You want to drink lots of good water every day, purified water. And I write about water on my website, because when your body is fully hydrated, you can more easily flush the toxins out of your body. You want to make sure that your day, when you're cleansing, it's not filled to the brim with unlimited activity. You know, instead you choose to slow down and maybe keep a gratitude journal, simplify your life. Maybe you declutter a little bit.

I do recommend exercise, because, you know, whatever you can do to bring up a good sweat, because sweating, your skin is one of your four channels of elimination.

It's your biggest eliminative organ, and then there's the bowels, the lungs and the kidneys. So if you work out with stretches or walking, aerobic activity to help your circulation.”

From Podcasts Archives - Extreme Health Radio: Susan Smith Jones – Detox 101, Why Detox, How To Detox & How Often We Should Cleanse The Body, Mar 1, 2025

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcasts-archives-extreme-health-radio/id577009557?i=1000474548062&r=1729

This material may be protected by copyright.

Why Hawaiian Spirulina Is the Best

Hawaiian spirulina stands out for its superior quality, purity, and potency. It’s primarily cultivated at the Kona Coast of Hawaii, where the algae benefit from:

• Constant sunshine and pristine air — ideal for photosynthesis and nutrient production.

• Deep ocean water drawn from 2,000 feet below — rich in natural minerals.

• Patented drying methods (Ocean Chill Drying™) that preserve nutrients and prevent oxidation.

• Clean, biosecure facilities — free of pesticides, herbicides, GMOs, and heavy metals.

These conditions give Hawaiian spirulina a vibrant green-blue color, a mild flavor, and higher concentrations of phytonutrients like phycocyanin, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin than spirulina grown elsewhere.

I knew my sister was lucky to get to live in Kona but now knowing she has direct access to the same water this spirulina is grown in has me even a little bit more jealous than I already was! She spends her mornings and evenings swimming in the beautiful sea water everyday.

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Spirulina as a Natural Binder and Detoxifier

1. Heavy Metal Detox

Spirulina has the ability to bind to heavy metals, such as arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium, and facilitate their excretion from the body. Its high content of chlorophyll, phycocyanin, and sulfhydryl-containing amino acids helps chelate (grab onto) metals and escort them out through bile or urine.

In fact, spirulina was shown in studies to reduce arsenic toxicity in individuals in regions like Bangladesh and Taiwan, where chronic arsenic poisoning is prevalent.

2. Radiation Protection

Spirulina was used to treat Chernobyl victims, especially children, where it significantly reduced radioactive isotope levels in urine, helping protect bone marrow and organs. This speaks to its remarkable ability to bind radioactive particles and support cellular resilience.

3. Pesticide & Toxin Binders

Spirulina binds organic solvents, pesticides, and chemical residues thanks to its cell wall composition and surface polysaccharides that trap toxins in the GI tract and aid elimination.

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Heart Health Benefits

1. Lowers LDL & Triglycerides

Spirulina helps reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (good cholesterol). One study showed a 16% reduction in LDL and 10% increase in HDL after 12 weeks of spirulina supplementation (1-2g/day).

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Spirulina’s vasodilatory effects are partially due to phycocyanin, which boosts nitric oxide — a molecule that helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. A study found that 4.5g/day for 6 weeks significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic pressure.

3. Reduces Oxidative Stress on the Heart

Spirulina contains potent antioxidants like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and beta-carotene which reduce oxidative stress and protect arterial walls from damage — crucial for atherosclerosis prevention.

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Immune System Support

Spirulina is a powerful immune modulator. Here’s how it strengthens your defenses:

• Boosts NK Cells & Macrophages: Enhances the activity of natural killer cells and macrophages, improving the ability to destroy pathogens and infected cells.

• Increases Immunoglobulin Production: Encourages production of antibodies (IgA, IgG).

• Anti-Viral and Anti-Microbial: Inhibits the replication of viruses like influenza, herpes, and even HIV-1 in lab settings.

Studies show spirulina stimulates T-helper cells, and increases interleukin-2, interferon gamma, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), making it a natural immune amplifier without overstimulating or triggering autoimmune reactions.

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Full-Spectrum Health Benefits of Spirulina

1. Rich Source of Plant Protein

• ~60–70% complete protein (more than beef by weight).

• Contains all 9 essential amino acids.

2. Packed with Nutrients

• Iron, B12 (bioavailable form), magnesium, calcium, potassium, selenium, and zinc.

• Vitamins A, E, K, and B complex.

• Rare nutrients like gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) — anti-inflammatory omega-6 fat.

3. Eye and Brain Health

• Rich in zeaxanthin and lutein, crucial for macular and cognitive function.

• Phycocyanin supports neural protection and neurogenesis.

4. Anti-Cancer Potential

• Animal and in-vitro studies show spirulina inhibits tumor growth, especially oral and pancreatic cancers, by:

• Inhibiting angiogenesis

• Enhancing apoptosis (cell death in cancer cells)

• Scavenging free radicals

5. Supports Gut Health

• Encourages growth of beneficial gut flora (like Bifidobacteria).

• Binds endotoxins and promotes gut wall integrity.

6. Allergy Relief

• Reduces nasal congestion, histamine release, and sneezing in allergic rhinitis.

• Acts as a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory.

7. Energy & Endurance

• Athletes use spirulina to enhance stamina and muscle recovery due to its high iron, protein, and antioxidant profile.

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Discovery & History of Spirulina

Spirulina has been consumed by:

• Aztecs of 14th-century Mexico as “tecuitlatl,” harvested from Lake Texcoco.

• Kanembu people of Chad, Africa, who still dry and bake it as “dihe.”

But it wasn’t until the 1960s that spirulina was studied and cultivated on a large scale when scientists observed flamingos thriving on it near alkaline lakes. NASA even proposed it as space food for astronauts, citing its dense nutrient content and easy cultivation.

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Dosing & Usage

Typical Daily Dosage:

• 1–3 grams/day for general health.

• Up to 10 grams/day for detox, binding, and therapeutic protocols.

Best Taken:

• On an empty stomach for binder effects.

• With vitamin C or lemon water to enhance detox.

• Avoid consuming near pharmaceutical meds — take spirulina 2+ hours away to avoid interference with absorption.

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Safety Considerations

• Only use lab-tested, clean spirulina like Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica to avoid microcystins or heavy metal contamination found in poor-quality products.

• People with autoimmune diseases or phenylketonuria (PKU) should consult a professional.

• May interact with immunosuppressants or blood thinners.

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Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Spirulina is a next-level superfood — acting as a binder, immune protector, heart support, detoxifier, and nutritional powerhouse. It’s not just a supplement — it’s a living legacy from the Earth’s oldest organisms, cultivated in one of the purest environments on the planet.

Adding it to your daily wellness protocol could help you detox deeply, nourish fully, and energize naturally.

Thank you for reading! Please comment if you use or plan to use Spirulina! I’d love to hear your results!

Love the renegade researching homeschool mama

Molly Roberson, PA-C

Research

Heavy Metal Binding & Detox

• “The Role of Spirulina… in the Mitigation of Heavy‑Metal Toxicity” – a review summarizing 58 preclinical studies (plus five human arsenic detox trials) demonstrating spirulina binds arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury

PubMed link https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32749124/

• Analysis of 25 commercial spirulina products (including Hawaiian) via ICP‑MS, confirming trace heavy metal levels well below safety limits

PMC article https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3824145/

Cardiovascular & Heart Benefits

• “Beneficial Effects of Spirulina Supplementation in the Management…” – a review detailing spirulina’s positive impact on cardio and cerebrovascular health

PMC article https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10935118/

• Clinical trial: Randomized, double-blind study showing 2 g/day Hawaiian spirulina for 3 months significantly reduced systolic blood pressure in overweight hypertensive adults

Spirulina maxima study PDF https://www.jpccr.eu/pdf-189444-114571?filename=Spirulina+maxima.pdf

• “Phycocyanin prevents hypertension and low serum adiponectin” – showing the pigment in spirulina enhances nitric oxide production to relax blood vessels

Antioxidant + Immune Support

• Marine Drugs, 2022: Double‑blind trial using Spirulysat® (C‑phycocyanin–rich) showed reduced oxidized LDL and urinary oxidative markers, improved triglycerides and HDL in metabolic syndrome patients

• Phycocyanin’s known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti‑cancer functions

https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/20/7/441?utm_

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phycocyanin?utm_

https://www.jpccr.eu/pdf-189444-114571?filename=Spirulina+maxima.pdf&utm_source=chatgpt.com

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Lipid, Cholesterol & Triglyceride Improvements

• Healthline, “10 Proven Benefits”: Spirulina lowers total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and protects LDL from oxidation—benefits for heart health

• 2023 meta‑analysis: Spirulina helps improve total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL‑C, and HDL‑C

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina?utm_

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043661823001585

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History & Hawaiian Purity

• Nutrex/Cyanotech (Pure Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica): Grown with deep seawater minerals, OceanChill™ drying to preserve nutrients, GMO-free and monitored for contaminants and radiation

https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Hawaiian-Spirulina-Powder-Superfood/dp/B0039ITKR4?utm_

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Additional Health Benefits

• Heavy metal detoxification mechanisms via cell-wall polysaccharides and antioxidant action

• WebMD summary of spirulina increasing nitric oxide, supporting blood vessel health

https://www.new-farmers.com/blogs/news/how-spirulina-helps-in-detoxifying-heavy-metals-from-your-body

https://www.webmd.com/diet/spirulina-health-benefits

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