Aphanizomenon flos aquae (AFA) by E3Live, the mysterious blue-green algae of Klamath Lake, is a fascinating organism that has been attracting attention from scientists and researchers for years. Aphanizomenon flos aquae is a photosynthetic microorganism that can be found in freshwater environments. It is often called “blue-green algae” because it produces a blue-green pigment called phycocyanin. This unique microorganism has some amazing properties, including the ability to produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.

Recently there has been an increase in the popularity of Aphanizomenon flos aquae as a nutritional supplement. One of the most common reasons that people consume AFA is for its nutritive value. There are also people who consume Aphanizomenon flos aquae for its antioxidant properties.

Antioxidants help to reduce the likelihood that free radicals will have an impact on the body, as they can cause oxidative damage by creating chemicals that act in an unstable manner. Some of these free radicals create what is known as “oxidative stress”, which can be damaging to the body in a number of ways. When free radicals form, they naturally look for something that they can bond with and attack in order to stay stable.

By consuming AFA, people may be able to reduce their risk of oxidative stress due to an increased content of antioxidants compared to other foods on the market.

This has been the reason why AFA is considered a super-food, and while it may be possible to get the same benefits from consuming other foods, such as berries or cruciferous vegetables, there are still many who feel that AFA products represent an ideal source of antioxidants.

In addition, AFA has many other health benefits that are scientifically supported, but further research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms of action (as well as the potential risks of taking AFA).

Some possible benefits of AFA include:

1. Boosting immune function. Animal and human studies suggest that AFA may help prevent inflammation in the body by increasing anti-inflammatory substances (including interleukin 10) and decreasing inflammatory markers like TNF-alpha, IL-6 and C-reactive protein. 

Aphanizomenon flos aquae contains proteins and a variety of amino acids that have been shown to increase immunity levels. This, in turn, can help prevent illnesses associated with the immune system such as colds, flu, and sore throats.

Blue green algae’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help improve immune function by preventing free radical damage to cells, which helps protect against disease. Additionally, it may be used to lower various symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases.

2. Supporting detoxification and liver health. Researchers have found that AFA feeding has improved the survival of mice with acute liver failure, as well as helped to inhibit oxidative damage in rat livers. Other research suggests that AFA helps promote healthy liver function by improving the production of a hormone called adiponectin, which is believed to have protective effects on the liver.
3. Promoting healthy digestion and gut health. AFA has been shown to help normalize bowel movements in people with constipation, as well as decrease uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, gas and abdominal pain. Additionally, preliminary research suggests that AFA may be helpful for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as well as inflammatory bowel conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
4. Supporting heart health. Recent animal studies have shown that AFA possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and blood lipid-regulating properties, all of which may help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. AFA is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce blood pressure and decrease the risk of thrombosis.
5. Supporting brain health. AFA has been shown to improve memory, focus and cognition in several studies, both in healthy individuals and those with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
6. Improving the ability to cope with stress. AFA has been shown to have a significant effect on reducing levels of the stress hormone known as cortisol, and by extension, helping reduce overall stress symptoms.
7. Supporting respiratory health. In one study, researchers found that AFA improved airway resistance in asthma patients who were not currently using conventional treatment therapies, indicating that the algae may help to enhance respiratory function.
8. Reducing inflammation and pain. AFA has also been found to reduce symptoms of lupus-related pain as well as inflammatory joint disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In addition, studies have shown that AFA can promote the reduction of inflammation-related conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatism.
9. Lowering blood pressure. AFA has been shown to reduce systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure in animal models with high cholesterol. These effects were attributed to phycocyanin (a blue dye produced by the algae) which is known to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure and are used in the treatment of hypertension.
10. Strengthening immune function. Because this blue green algae contains high levels of phycocyanin, it has immunological properties that can help boost the immune system. An enhanced and strengthened immunity is essential for individuals with cancer, autoimmune disease, or even chronic viral conditions such as hepatitis or HIV. Furthermore, it has been shown to activate T-cells without increasing lymphocyte proliferation in both normal and immunocompromised rodents.
11. Anti-oxidant properties: Powerful free-radical scavenging activity. Like other antioxidants, phycocyanin protects the body from damage by free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS). A 2004 study on animals found that this compound was able to protect against oxidative stress induced by exposure to mercury as well as lead toxicity. In addition, it has been shown to possess a strong ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation, a process that plays a major role in cellular aging. Researchers have attributed the anti-aging and disease preventing properties of this blue pigment to its antioxidant as well as chelating activities. Today there are many diseases linked directly or indirectly with oxidative damage. This powerful phycobiliprotein appears to be able to inhibit the production of these harmful byproducts as well as repair some of the damage that occurs. Furthermore, it has been found to protect against a number of cardiovascular diseases including heart disease and atherosclerosis, likely due to its ability to prevent cholesterol from oxidizing.
12. Anti-inflammatory properties: Aphanizomenon flos aquae has been shown to be able to reduce inflammation that can lead to chronic diseases. It is a good source of polyphenols and antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by inflammation.

Research has shown that blue green algae suppresses the production of several inflammatory compounds such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins, leukotrienes, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). The fact that this compound helps to inhibit the inflammatory process makes it a great treatment option for those suffering from autoimmune diseases and other inflammatory conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and lupus.

13. Lowers blood sugar levels: Studies have found that blue green algae can promote lower blood sugar levels by supporting normal insulin function and glucose tolerance, which plays an important role in reducing the risk factors associated with Type 2 Diabetes.
14. Reduces Cholesterol: Blue green algae has been observed to exhibit cholesterol-lowering effects, which may be induced by inhibiting the synthesis of lipids in the liver and thereby reducing serum LDL cholesterol levels. It has also been shown to effectively reduce Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
15. May support weight loss: Aphanizomenon flos aquae contains a number of protein and amino acids that are credited with providing the body with increased energy levels. This, in turn, helps individuals maintain fitness and promote weight loss. Moreover, Aphanizomenon flos aquae promotes the release of human growth hormone from the pituitary gland
16. Supports Cognitive Function: Researchers studying Aphanizomenon flos aquae have found that it contains specific compounds that support cognitive function. In other words, Aphanizomenon flos aquae can help improve memory, as well as concentration and overall mental performance
17. Boosts Energy Levels: As mentioned above, Aphanizomenon flos aquae is credited with boosting energy levels by increasing oxygen levels in the blood. You’re probably wondering how that translates to you? Well, when your body has more oxygen flowing through it, you have a higher level of energy
18. Protects Against Obesity: Aphanizomenon flos aquae may help keep the weight off. By helping your cells absorb and use nutrients more efficiently, your body is better able to shed excess fat
19. Protects Skin From Sun Damage: Aphanizomenon flos aquae contains compounds that protect the skin from sun damage and premature aging. Not only will you have a lighter complexion and less blemishes, but your skin will also be more resilient to wrinkles and other signs of aging
20. Controls Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches to appear on the skin. Aphanizomenon flos aquae can help get rid of these patches as well as soothe other symptoms associated with psoriasis like itching and inflammation
21. Helps Protect Against Cancer: Several studies have shown that Aphanizomenon flos aquae can help protect against cancer. It contains a high amount of antioxidants as well as several other compounds that protect your cells from free radical damage and mutation (two causes of cancer)
22. Prevents Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes pain and swelling in the joints. Aphanizomenon flos aquae has been shown to help prevent rheumatoid arthritis, fighting inflammation of the joints
23. Helps Protect The Nervous System: Aphanizomenon flos aquae contains compounds that help protect the nervous system. It contains high amounts of vitamin B12 and folic acid, which are helpful in protecting the nervous tissue. Vitamin B6 helps protect against neuropathy (nerve damage)
24. Calms Anxiety: Aphanizomenon flos aquae has been shown to be helpful for those with anxiety disorders. The compounds in Aphanizomenon flos aquae have been shown to help reduce anxiety and stress.
25. Improves Memory: Aphanizomenon flos aquae contains antioxidant compounds that help protect the brain from oxidative damage, including those that cause Alzheimer’s disease. It also contains high amounts of vitamin B6, which is required for the optimal function of neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters are responsible for memory, learning and mood regulation.

If you’re considering adding AFA to your diet or taking supplements derived from this nutrient-rich algae, talk to your doctor first for guidance and advice. This is particularly true if you are pregnant or nursing or have any medical conditions that could be affected by consuming AFA. Additionally, make sure that there is not any conflict with your current medications or conditions to avoid unwanted side effects.

Here at E3Live Canada, we offer Aphanizomenon flos aquae (AFA) in fresh frozen liquid form, or in powder form. Check out our online store to order yours today.