Klamath algae crystals are a freeze-dried, powdered form of a blue green algae harvested from the Klamath Lake in Oregon. The crystals are also sold in capsule and liquid form. Hollywood movie stars Demi Moore and Bruce Willis have endorsed it for its apparent energy-boosting effect. It has a high vitamin content and is believed to boost the immune system, improve mood and treat or prevent a variety of health conditions.
Nutrients
Klamath algae crystals are a good source of B vitamins, according to Susan Clark, former natural health reporter for the London Times and other British publications. This is a significant point for vegans because B-12 is an essential nutrient but is found mainly in meat, eggs and dairy products. Most plant sources that have B-12 contain a form that humans cannot metabolize. A study in the March 3, of the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research confirmed its value as a source of B-12.
Clark added that the algae contain a significant amount of iron in a form that is easy for the human body to absorb and use.
crystals are rich in antioxidants, according to a team led by University of Modena researcher Alessandro Genazzani in an April 25, 2009 issue of the Gynecological Endocrinology journal.
Menopause
Genazzani's team also found that a Klamath algae extract spray (Klamin) reduced menopausal symptoms in women and may be a viable alternative for hormone replacement therapy.
Mood Enhancer
The algae also contain phenylethylamine, a naturally occurring chemical compound that can reduce and prevent depression, Genazzi's team noted.
Caveats
Dr. Stephen Barrett reported on Quack Watch that the Oregon Health Department found that Klamath Lake algae had significant levels of microcystins, toxins that are stored in and can damage the liver. He also warned that algae harvested from brackish ponds and lakes (such as Klamath Lake) can cause gastroenteritis and hepatitis.
Klamath algae can cause eye irritation and skin rashes on contact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, several California environmental agencies and an article in the August 21, 2009 issue of The Oregonian newspaper.
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