MEDICINAL BENEFITS OF ALGAE

Author Name: 1. Zainulabdeen H. A. Al-Khafaji 2. Israa N.Al-Asad

Volume/Issue: 04/02

Country: Iraq

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/07.2023-92419599/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Department of Biology, College of Education for Pure Science, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq
2. Department of Biology, College of Education for Pure Science, University of Mosul, Mosul, Iraq

ABSTRACT

Algae contain various components those that have shown a great potential to be used for human health and medical. The therapeutic properties of algae exhibit vast range of applications like cardiovascular health, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and others in human medicinal products. Algal components are used to enhance immune system and to reduce blood cholesterol and are effective against hypercholesterolemia. Algae contain effective components that can remove harmful elements from the human body and have properties of antitumor, stomach ulcer, and wound healing. The extract of microalgae enhances blood hemoglobin concentration and decrease blood sugar level. Some algal species are extensively used to form analgesic, broncholytic, and antihypertensive medicines. Large quantities of bioactive components obtained from microalgae have strong beneficial properties which reduce the production of inflammatory compounds, effective against muscle degradation. Algal bioactive components play a potential role in disease-inhibiting and health-promoting medicines like capsules, tablets, powders, and gels. This article also reviews the health risks regarding algae intake.

Key words: Algae, active compound, antimicrobial