Spirulina platensis is a cyanobacterium that lives in fresh water, and which is often used as a food source or dietary supplement. Spirulina contains c-phycocyanin, an accessory pigment used to aid photosynthesis. C-phycocyanin is biologically active in humans and animals, and evidence suggests it has general beneficial health effects because of its antioxidant capacity, and studies have identified central nervous system effects for c-phycocyanin. For example, in one study researchers observed that c-phycocyanin was able to inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase B. This enzyme is responsible for the degradation of dopamine, and by inhibiting it, c-phycocyanin has the potential to raise brain levels of this neurotransmitter. C-phycocyanin may therefore have some mood elevating effects. The antioxidant effects of c-phycocyanin may also contribute to any mood elevating effects of spirulina, as oxidative stress is a primary cause of mood disorders including anxiety and depression, and antioxidants may protect the brain from damage.
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