Spirulina is a cyanobacterium (formerly called a blue-green algae) of the genus Arthrospira, mainly Arthrospira platensis. It grows naturally in alkaline lakes of tropical and subtropical regions, where it has been a traditional food source for centuries — harvested by the Aztecs from Lake Texcoco under the name “tecuitlatl,” and still harvested today by the Kanembu people of Chad from Lake Chad as dried cakes called “dihe.” The World Health Organization has cited spirulina as one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet.

Spirulina is especially popular with athletes for its protein content, bioavailable iron and antioxidants. The iron in spirulina is better absorbed than typical plant iron thanks to phycocyanin, which aids its assimilation. The naturally occurring branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in spirulina support muscle recovery, which is why many elite athletes include it in their nutrition programme.

Spirulina is considered one of the most sustainable foods on the planet: its cultivation uses 20 times less water than animal-protein production and generates no waste. It grows in alkaline aquatic ponds, needs no arable land, and can be harvested year-round in a suitable climate. As a complete-protein source with a low environmental footprint, spirulina is held up by organisations such as the UN and FAO as part of the answer to global food-security challenges.

Usual dose: 3 to 6 tablets a day, taken with meals and a large glass of water. Beginners should start with 1 tablet a day for the first week, then increase gradually. Athletes in intensive training can go up to 10 tablets a day.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose without medical advice. This food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children.

Can spirulina replace an iron supplement?

Spirulina is a natural iron source (about 28 mg per 100 g dry weight), providing 0.8–1.7 mg of iron at typical supplementation doses (3–6 g/day) — a useful contribution, but not a substitute for a medically prescribed iron supplement in a diagnosed deficiency.

Is spirulina suitable for vegans?

Yes, spirulina is 100% plant-based (technically a cyanobacterium) and popular with vegans for its complete protein, iron and B12-analogue content. Note that the B12 form in spirulina is mainly pseudo-vitamin B12, whose bioavailability in humans is debated, so vegans should not rely on spirulina as their sole B12 source.

How do I choose a good-quality spirulina?

Check the origin and growing conditions, the drying method (low temperature is best), lab testing (heavy metals, cyanotoxins, microbiology), colour (deep dark green), smell (lightly marine) and the manufacturer’s reputation. Flamant Vert meets all these criteria, with over thirty years of experience.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.