Phycocyanin is a blue pigment-protein complex extracted from spirulina, a blue-green algae. It appears in natural food coloring and supplement capsules. The powdered form mixes easily into smoothies or juices and can be taken with or without food.
This pigment supports antioxidant activity and a balanced inflammatory response. It may help protect cells from oxidative stress and moderate certain immune pathways.
Source quality matters. Unregulated spirulina can carry microcystins, so choose products tested for purity. People with autoimmune conditions or phenylketonuria should be cautious. Anyone allergic to blue-green algae should avoid phycocyanin entirely.