Iranian Researchers Make Microalgae Soap from Spirulina Platensis
Iin an interview with ANA, director of the technological center located the Islamic Azad University's Zanjan branch Parivash Ghaderinia explained the achievements she and her teammates have thus far gained,adding, “Cream soap is a product that is made using spirulina microalgae (a species of blue-green algae from the branch of cyanobacteria) in this unit.”
She further said that there are three types of spirulina algae, adding, “This alga grows in fresh water and it is classified as a freshwater alga. These blue-green algae are rich in protein that is very important for our health and the beauty of the skin and hair. Some amino acids, which are in alga, are essential for building collagen and maintaining skin elasticity. Also, by providing the protein needed in the body to make keratin, it helps the hair to grow healthier and faster.”
“Spirulina contains more than 60% protein, which is the highest amount of protein on the planet and can provide all the amino acids necessary for the body. Spirulina algae can absorb heavy metals and toxins well and remove them from skin and body cells. This alga is rich in chlorophyll, which is one of the best natural cleansing substances and can be effective in removing heavy metals and toxins and makes skin clearer and smoother,” Ghaderinia explained more.
According to the researcher, the alga Spirulina is rich in a fatty acid called gamma-Linolenic acid or GLA which helps the body fight inflammation. This fatty acid helps maintain the integrity of the skin and fights inflammation and skin problems such as eczema. The increase in free radical attacks in the skin which is caused by being exposed to the sun, air pollution and improper diet causes increased wrinkles, sagging and skin discoloration.
She went on to talk about other useful properties of the spirulina algae, saying, “One of the amazing antioxidants in spirulina is phycocyanin, which is blue in color and has an amazing effect on cell regeneration and skin repair. Spirulina is also a great source of vitamin A, E and vitamin B12 and can cure damaged and loose skin, make the skin look younger and brighter, and prevent the growth of free radicals and aging.”
Saying that the vitamins in spirulina help the body to produce new and healthy cells faster, Ghaderinia said that this alga is also effective in removing spots around the eyes and removing pimples and skin acne because of its antibacterial properties.
The Zanjan IAU researcher center director further said that their company started work in 2020 with the mission of achieving knowledge-based products and meeting the technological needs in the country in the field of pharmaceutical, cosmetic, health nanotechnology and products from nature and medicinal plants.
At the end of the interview, Ghaderinia called on Iran’s Food and Drug Organization for more support to newly-founded technological companies.
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