Evidence supporting the use of: Spirulina
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Spirulina, a blue-green algae, has garnered scientific interest for its potential neuroprotective effects, including possible benefits in Parkinson's Disease (PD). Preclinical studies in animal models have shown that spirulina possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are relevant because oxidative stress and neuroinflammation contribute to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in PD. Several rodent studies have demonstrated that supplementation with spirulina may reduce neuronal loss and improve motor function in toxin-induced models of Parkinson’s Disease. For example, research published in journals such as Neurobiology of Disease has shown that diets enriched with spirulina can attenuate neurodegeneration and modulate microglial activation in animal models.

Despite these promising findings, there is a lack of robust clinical evidence in humans. No large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials have been conducted to confirm efficacy or safety of spirulina for patients with PD. The bulk of the current evidence is limited to laboratory and animal studies, which do not always translate to human benefits. As such, while the scientific rationale for using spirulina in Parkinson’s Disease is grounded in mechanistic and preclinical data, the overall evidence supporting its use in humans is weak (rated 2/5). Patients should consult healthcare providers before using spirulina as a complementary therapy.

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