I’m sure when you hear the term, ‘Blue Green Algae’, like myself, you immediately think of pond scum; that slimy, sickly substance that smells funny, floats eerily on the water’s surface and seems to serve little, if any, purpose whatsoever to the greater Aquatic ecosystem, let alone human health! 
 

Well what if I was to tell you that if there were no algae ruining our gorgeous water features and attracting all sorts of unwanted micro-organisms and amphibians, life as we know it would cease to exist! And what if I was to tell you that many health professionals have touted this particular type of algae to be the single most nutrient dense food on the planet! Yes, that’s right; they’re talking about eating the stuff!

Ok, so before you think I’ve gone crazy, allow me to explain…

 

The scientific name for Blue Green Algae is, Aphanizomenon Flos Aquae or AFA, which literally means "invisible living flower of the water" (a much more appealing image springs to mind doesn’t it?!) Also known as cyanobacteria, AFA is actually a type of dynamically photosynthesis-infused microscopic plant that is found in nearly every droplet of sunlit water on earth.  Utilising energy from the sun, Blue Green Algae are able to create their own food from the surrounding gases and minerals of their environment (pretty impressive). Then, as a by-product of this biochemical reaction, pure oxygen is released into our planet’s atmosphere allowing us to breathe.  

 

Sounding a little complicated? Well basically these tiny little organisms produce 90% of the Earth's oxygen and collectively supply about 80% of the building blocks for the entire food ecosystem of the planet! 

 

Although minute in size, AFA are packed full of high quality nutrients; holding 64 vitamins, minerals and enzymes (all of which are easily absorbed by the body) as well as more biologically active chlorophyll than any other known source of food! Added to this AFA is rich in the minerals calcium, selenium, zinc and iron, Vitamin B-12, B6, B1, C and vitamin E, the essential fatty acid GLA, anti-oxidants as well as being extremely rich in beta-carotene (the pre-cursor to Vitamin A) and containing all essential amino acids (it is a complete protein source for vegans or vegetarians comprised of approximately 70% vegetable protein). 

 

So what exactly are the health benefits of Blue Green Algae?

No wonder it’s called one of the greatest superfoods known to humankind! 
 

Aside from the fact that it has been used to treat numerous health conditions, Blue Green Algae is an incrediblly nutrient-rich, wholefood source that can provide an excellent foundation for anyone wanting to improve their health and well being... And the best part is; it comes in capsule form so you don’t even need to taste it! 
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NB. Always make sure to consult your health care provider if you are pregnant or nursing. Blue green algae is best consumed on an empty stomach with juice or water and is suitable for both adults and children. It is important to be selective about your source however, as some sources can have contamination.