Spirulina or Arthrospira is a tiny blue-green alga that became famous after it was successfully used by NASA as a dietary supplement for astronauts on space missions. The concentration of protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in Spirulina has led many to classify it as the “most nutrient dense food on the planet.
Spirulina grows naturally in mineral-rich alkaline lakes which can be found often near volcanoes or in places with thermal activity. A large concentrations of spirulina today can be found around Lake Chad in Africa. The algae has nourished many civilisations for centuries. To this day, spirulina is harvested for consumption by the Kanembu people in the region of Lake Chad. Women collect the spirulina and filter out the water in the sand. The dried 'flatcakes' called dihé are sold for consumption in local markets.
Spirulina also has many beneficial effects in external application on the skin and hair. It can :
- improve the skin pigmentation,
- brigten the skin,
- reduce collagen degradation on the dermis,
- improve the skin elasticity,
- helps your skin retain moisture,
- smooths and exfoliates,
- helps to eliminate bad bacteria that can cause acne,
-Antioxidants present in Spirulina can help eliminate free radicals which are responsible for skin ageing,
- Spirulina can contain up to 80% protein which is also ideal for deep conditioning weakened hair.
Homemade Spirulina hair mask recipe
40g of Spirulina
110 ml of boiling water
70 ml of any oil
20 ml of apple cider vinegar