Cyanobacteria, blue-green algae, the oldest form of life on earth, the superfood of the 21st century - these are all epithets and names for Hawaiian spirulina, a mystical and briefly forgotten algae that has recently become one of the most sought-after dietary supplements.The Aztecs were convinced of its "magical properties" and high nutritional value in the 16th century, and then the French, who in 1969 opened the first factory for its processing.In fact, it is a blue-green algae, rich in chlorophyll, which usually lives in freshwater lakes and warmer waters.Although it requires high temperatures for its development, which is why it is the most common inhabitant of China, Australia and Hawaii, this cyanobacterium is distributed all over the world.Although it was previously classified as a plant because it is abundant in plant pigments and has the ability to photosynthesize, new understandings of its genetics, physiology and biochemical properties have led scientists to move it among bacteria, more precisely among cyanobacteria, which are often called blue-green algae.There are several species in the genus Spirulina, and three of them - Spirulina platensis, Spirulina maxima and Spirulina fusiformis - have been studied in detail for their valuable nutritional and potential therapeutic properties.As a supplement, it is most often available in powder form, and its standard daily dose is from one to three grams, although doses of up to ten grams are also taken.And why did she become so sought after and adored?First of all, Hawaiian spirulina is a complete source of protein.It has between 55 and 70 percent protein, which is more than beef, chicken and soy.It also contains 8 essential and 10 non-essential amino acids, as well as high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), beta-carotene, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, iron, calcium and phosphorus.It is also rich in vitamin B12, relatively rare in other plant foods, which is one of the reasons why spirulina is such a good choice for vegetarians.It is also rich in iron and contains calcium, magnesium and vitamins A, B, C, D and E, and is an excellent source of antioxidants that reduce the level of free radicals in the body and promote cell regeneration and strengthening of immunity.On the other hand, spirulina has only 3.9 calories per gram.So, it is a low-calorie food with high nutritional value, which is why it has become popular with athletes, but also with people who fight with extra pounds, because it helps control appetite and relieves the craving for snacks.Also, due to its detoxifying properties, it promotes the elimination of toxins and other impurities from the bloodstream.It has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, which is why it is good in the prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and it also helps with anxiety, chronic fatigue, stress, depression, arthritis, and it has also shown effective properties in malignant diseases.Although this alga has many medicinal properties and is a natural source of protein and minerals, before consuming it, you should ask about the place of cultivation.Namely, in nature it can be contaminated with metals, harmful bacteria and toxins produced by certain algae, if it grows in an unsafe environment.Experts recommend that when buying supplements, check whether the spirulina was grown in safe conditions, i.e. in the so-calledbiosafe zones and that it has been tested for toxins.One such form of microalgae that is available on our market in bio&bio stores is Nutrex Hawaii, which has been grown for 36 years on a healthy and sustainable farm in Kona where the use of harmful pesticides, herbicides and GMOs is prohibited.In order to extract the best, when growing Hawaiian Spirulina, five percent of pure ocean water from a depth of 600 meters is added to the water.It is this water that is responsible for the wealth of minerals in spirulina.Additionally, the cold drying method developed at Nutrex Hawaii prevents oxidation and damage to carotenoids, enzymes and other sensitive nutrients.Green smoothie with banana, orange mango and Hawaiian spirulina- 1 peeled, cleaned and frozen mango- Put everything in a blender and blend.And, voilà, you have a nutritious and delicious meal!