Phycocyanin

Phycocyanin is a phycobiliprotein — a protein bound to a pigment — responsible for spirulina’s characteristic blue-green colour. Its name comes from the Greek phyco (algae) and cyanine (blue). It’s spirulina’s most studied active compound, and the one that concentrates most of its properties.

Whole spirulina contains around 10 to 20% phycocyanin depending on growing conditions. Concentrated extracts allow for much higher dosages, providing a targeted, measurable effect. Phycocyanin stands out from other antioxidants through several unique characteristics:

• Structure similar to haemoglobin: phycocyanin shares a molecular structure similar to human haemoglobin and chlorophyll. This structural kinship explains its natural affinity with the body and its ability to support red blood cell production
• An antioxidant 20 times more powerful than vitamin C: in vitro studies have shown that phycocyanin neutralises free radicals far more effectively than vitamin C and vitamin E
• Water-soluble: unlike fat-soluble antioxidants such as astaxanthin or CoQ10, phycocyanin acts within the aqueous compartments of the cell
• A fragile molecule: sensitive to heat above 60°C, UV light and acidic pH. Extraction and storage methods are critical to preserving its activity

Phycocyanin is the subject of hundreds of scientific publications. Here are the main areas where its action is documented:

Antioxidant and cell protection — Phycocyanin neutralises a broad spectrum of free radicals, including the hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide and the superoxide anion. It protects cell membranes, DNA and proteins from oxidative stress, a key factor in ageing. This is particularly relevant for athletes, whose intense effort generates an excess of free radicals.

Liver detoxification support — Phycocyanin supports the liver’s detoxification functions by promoting the activity of phase I and phase II liver enzymes. It helps the body eliminate heavy metals, pesticides and environmental toxins. Several animal studies have shown a significant liver-protective effect.

Antioxidant action — Phycocyanin inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase, two key enzymes in the inflammatory cascade. This natural action is documented for joint comfort, sports recovery and digestive lining support. Unlike synthetic solutions, phycocyanin has no known gastric side effects.

Immune support — Phycocyanin stimulates the production of immune cells, including lymphocytes and NK (Natural Killer) cells. It also promotes the production of interferon gamma, a key cytokine in the immune response.

Energy and oxygenation — Thanks to its structure similar to haemoglobin, phycocyanin helps optimise oxygen transport in the blood. Endurance athletes value this effect: better resistance to effort, faster recovery, reduced muscle fatigue.

At Herba Barona in Paris, we offer phycocyanin in several forms:

• Phycocyanin 200mg Life’s Code — 90 capsules: concentrated extract in vegetable capsules, 200mg of pure phycocyanin per capsule. A 3-month long-term format
• Phycocyanin 200mg Life’s Code — 30 capsules: same formula, a one-month starter format
• Organic blue spirulina powder 50g — Bioptimal: blue spirulina powder rich in phycocyanin, for smoothies and bowls. Intense, 100% natural blue colour

Our in-store team can help you choose between capsules (convenient, precise dosage) and blue powder (culinary use, visual effect).

Several criteria set a quality phycocyanin apart:

• The dosage of pure phycocyanin: choose products that clearly state the amount of phycocyanin per capsule in mg, not just the amount of spirulina
• Cold extraction: phycocyanin is heat-sensitive, so cold extraction preserves its activity
• Liquid or capsule form: liquid form is highly bioavailable but fragile. Capsules are more stable and convenient
• No preservatives or additives

Dosage: 1 to 2 capsules per day with a meal, or 1 teaspoon per day for the blue powder. A 1 to 3 month course, renewable. Athletes may increase the dose on days of intense training.

Precautions: generally very well tolerated. Not recommended for people allergic to spirulina. If taking anticoagulant medication, consult a doctor.

Phycocyanin has become a must-have in endurance sports. Cyclists, runners, triathletes and swimmers use it to:

• Improve oxygenation: structure similar to haemoglobin, supports oxygen transport
• Speed up recovery: natural antioxidant action, reduces muscle soreness
• Protect against exercise-induced oxidative stress: intense exercise generates a large amount of free radicals
• Support the immune system: overtraining weakens the body’s defences

Phycocyanin is not a doping substance and does not appear on any list of banned substances. It’s a 100% natural, legal solution to help optimise performance.

Where to buy phycocyanin in Paris?

Phycocyanin is on sale at Herba Barona, a dietary-supplement shop in Paris 12e, at 10 rue Théophile Roussel. Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am to 6:30pm.

What’s the difference between phycocyanin and spirulina?

Spirulina is the whole algae, rich in protein, iron, vitamins and phycocyanin (10-20%). Phycocyanin is spirulina’s active compound, extracted and concentrated, offering a targeted antioxidant action. Taking phycocyanin means taking spirulina’s active essence.

Can phycocyanin be combined with spirulina?

Yes, the two are complementary. Spirulina provides protein and iron, phycocyanin provides concentrated antioxidant action. Athletes often combine both.

Why is blue spirulina blue?

The intense blue colour comes from the naturally present phycocyanin. The bluer the spirulina, the richer it is in phycocyanin. It’s a visual indicator of quality.