Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) blue-green algae is one to include in your superfood arsenal.

AFA is one of the most wholesome foods on the planet with powerful effects on the:

*Brain
*Immune system
*Aging
*Detoxification

It’s a highly concentrated source of B-complex vitamins, chlorophyll which oxygenates and purifies the blood, and nucleic acids which can be used to assemble new, genetically healthy cells as well as to rejuvenate damaged cells and tissues.

Due to the volcanic origin of the lake from which it grows, Klamath Lake in Oregon, AFA contains a wide and complete spectrum of minerals and trace minerals.

Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) is also a rich source of phycocyanin, a vivid blue pigment that is responsible for potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiproliferative and anti-aging effects, and great for the liver. AFA extracts, largely due to phycocyanin, have been documented to stimulate the migration of adult stem cells from the bone marrow into the bloodstream.

AFA contains phenylethylamine (PEA), commonly referred to as the “love molecule” as high levels of this chemical is released in the brain when one has feelings of falling in love.

Phenylethylamine is a neuromodulator with powerful anti-depressant effects and increases the ability to concentrate. When the brain is flooded with PEA the neurotransmitter dopamine is then hindered from being broken down and dopamine levels rise.

Researchers have discovered that a blue-green algae protein reduces the ability of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Ebola virus. The antiviral protein, known as cyanovirin-N (CV-N) can extend the survival time of the Ebola-infected mice. It inhibits HIV and Ebola infection by physically blocking it from entering healthy cells. Increased stem cell concentrations can boost the immune system as they have the ability to become any cell in our body, including macrophages, B-cells, T-cells, NK cells, and other immune system cells.

Some Klamath Lake algae products may contain toxic cyanobacteria that damage the nervous system and liver.

However, E3 Live, a leading brand of AFA, states:

“There are thousands of different algae species, our E3 products are from one single particular species of edible nutritional blue-green algae (Cyanophyta) called Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. This species has been eaten by people for thousands of years and has provided great benefits. In our current culture, this specific source of AFA harvested from Klamath Lake has been used for more than 25 years, including in clinical settings with notable doctors.

From the moment we harvest the AFA, to its final packaging, we work with only the most highly trained and qualified staff. We handle our AFA with such care from start to finish. Factors contributing to this quality include: where and how we harvest, keeping the AFA cold at all times, superior filtration and storage, and ongoing quality-control testing of all of our products. All E3 products are tested thoroughly by independent USDA certified labs for food safety, shelf-life, and various other purity tests.

We test for Listeria, Salmonella, Staph aureus, Yeast/Mold, Coliform/E Coli, Aerobic Plate Count, BMAA, PAH, Microcystin, Anatoxin-a, Saxotoxin, Cylindrospermopsin, and Neurotoxin.

We meet or exceed all of the standards for each of these set forth by the FDA and Dept. of Agriculture. We also test the lake water quarterly for radionuclides, heavy metals, and pesticide residue and we use the standards and guidelines that are set for drinking water. These include Arsenic, Mercury, Lead, Cadmium. This is done by independent laboratories specializing in food and water quality.”


[biofoundations.org]

www.phytopanacea.com

With blue green algae, it may not be a simple issue of whether it's toxic or not. It can be pure as all get out, but may not be suitable for certain persons for other reasons. I read this in Paul Pitchford's massive book, "Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition".

The food or supplement has to fit the individual.