Aphanizomenon flos-aquae is a brackish and freshwater species of cyanobacteria found around the world, including the Baltic Sea and the Great Lakes.
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Uses
Health benefits associated with the use of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae include weight loss, reduced cholesterol, cancer treatment and prevention, and improved immune function;
Cautions
Stomach Irritation
Treatment with Aphanizomenon flos-aquae may cause stomach irritation. After taking a dose of this supplement, you may feel nauseated, vomit or lose your normal appetite. Though stomach discomfort typically subsides shortly after treatment, be sure to seek care from your doctor if these stomach-related side effects persist or become severe.
Insomnia or Anxiety
You may feel unusually restless or anxious while receiving treatment with Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. Such side effects may contribute to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep through the night — a condition called insomnia. If these side effects occur, seek additional care from your medical provider.
Allergic Reaction
Infrequently, an allergic reaction may occur following initial treatment with Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, the University of Michigan Health System warns. Symptoms that may develop as a result of an allergic reaction include facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, shortness of breath, dizziness, pale skin and weakness. Consult an emergency medical provider immediately if any of these side effects arise. In the absence of prompt medical intervention, an allergic reaction may result in life-threatening health complications.
Cyanotoxin Contamination
Blue-green algae is a type of cyanobacteria that may produce a chemical toxic to humans called cyanotoxin. This toxic substance may cause severe side effects such as kidney and liver failure, brain damage, respiratory arrest, heart muscle damage and seizures. Though cyanotoxin contamination occurs rarely, it may induce fatal medical complications. Seek immediate care from a doctor if you exhibit symptoms of cyanotoxin contamination, including excessive fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, breathing problems, difficulty concentrating, chest pain or itchy skin.
Interactions
None are recorded.
Other names
cyanobacterial blooms
References
Source: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aphanizomenon_flos-aquae
LiveStrong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/370143-aphanizomenon-flos-aquae-side-effects/