25 Nov Allergic Inflammation
Allergic inflammation involves the same types of mediators as other inflammatory responses but they are induced by IgE antibodies binding to mast cells.
As a result the release of inflammatory agents is triggered and among these molecular mediators histamine plays a central role.
On the other hand, anaphylaxis is a severe systemic allergic reaction caused by IgE-mediated release of various mediator molecules (**33).
It is already known from in vitro studies and experiments with animals that total Spirulina or Spirulina extracts as well as phycocyanin do not enhance sensitization to allergens.
In contrast, administration of Spirulina for a long period of time was decreased the production of antigen specific IgE antibodies and histamine, while the inflammatory reaction to allergen exposure was also decreased (**33).
Studies (double blind with placebo) with patients with clinical history of allergic rhinitis receiving Spirulina 1-2g/day for 3-6 months have shown that the patients presented considerable decrease of interleukin-4 (it plays significant role in IgE antibodies production) produced by blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) after stimulation with phytohemagglutinin.
In parallel, consumption of Spirulina significantly improved the symptoms and physical findings including nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching (**45, **46).
(**) Literature on the subject