- spirulina
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/spuy'reuh luy"neuh/, n.any of the blue-green algae of the genus Spirulina, sometimes added to food for its nutrient value.[ < NL, equiv. to spirul(a) small coil (see SPIRAL, -ULE) + -ina -INA; so called from their corkscrew shape]
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Any cyanobacteria in the genus Spirulina.A traditional food source in parts of Africa and Mexico, spirulina is an exceptionally rich source of vitamins, minerals, and protein, and one of the few nonanimal sources of vitamin B12. It is now being widely studied for its possible antiviral, anticancer, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties, and has been used for such medical conditions as allergies, ulcers, anemia, heavy-metal poisoning, and radiation poisoning. It is also used in weight-loss programs.* * *
Universalium. 2010.