Research suggests that spirulina may offer some benefit for allergic conditions, particularly allergic rhinitis, with multiple reviews identifying it as a promising complementary option due to its ability to inhibit histamine release from mast cells and exert anti-inflammatory effects through bioactive compounds such as phycocyanin. Studies indicate that these antiallergic properties are biologically plausible and have been noted consistently across reviews spanning 2008 to 2024, though the available evidence base consists predominantly of review articles and narrative summaries rather than large-scale randomized controlled trials, which limits the strength of conclusions that can be drawn. A 2024 review introduced an important caveat, noting that spirulina is not without risk in this context, as the algae itself has been documented to trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Overall, while the existing literature is directionally supportive, researchers consistently call for more rigorously designed clinical studies before spirulina can be confidently recommended as an allergy intervention.
Citations from PubMed and preprint sources. Match score (0-100) reflects automated search ranking, not clinical appraisal.
| Title | Type | Year | Direction | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis): Antiallergic Agent or Hidden Allergen? A L... | Review | 2024 | Mixed | 95 |
| Complementary and alternative medicine for allergic rhinitis. | Review | 2009 | Supports | 90 |
| Recent Patents of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Allergic Rhinitis. | Review | 2015 | Supports | 82 |
| Spirulina. | Review | 2012 | Supports | 80 |
| Spirulina in health care management. | Review | 2008 | Supports | 78 |
| Food and drug industry applications of microalgae Spirulina platensis: A review. | Review | 2023 | Supports | 72 |
| Trends and Technological Advancements in the Possible Food Applications of Sp... | Review | 2022 | Supports | 65 |
| The antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities of Spirul... | Review | 2016 | Supports | 62 |