Evidence supporting the use of: Phycocyanins
For the health condition: Psoriasis

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Synopsis

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

Phycocyanins are pigment-protein complexes derived primarily from cyanobacteria such as Spirulina. Their use in psoriasis is primarily supported by preclinical scientific evidence rather than long-standing traditional use. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that phycocyanins possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These effects are mainly attributed to their ability to scavenge free radicals and inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, which are known to play significant roles in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. For instance, a few experimental studies have shown that phycocyanin supplementation can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in models of skin inflammation, which are relevant to psoriasis.

However, direct clinical evidence in humans with psoriasis is lacking. To date, there are no large-scale, peer-reviewed clinical trials specifically assessing the efficacy of phycocyanins as a treatment for psoriasis. Most of the supportive data comes from laboratory and animal models, which, while promising, do not guarantee similar results in humans. As such, the scientific evidence can be rated as modest (2/5), reflecting preclinical promise but a lack of robust human data. Further research, particularly well-controlled clinical trials, is needed before phycocyanins can be recommended as a validated therapy for psoriasis.

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Products containing Phycocyanins

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