Chlorella vulgaris (chlorella) is a unicellular green microalgae. Evidence suggests that chlorella is an effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent. Compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are often useful in the treatment of mood disorders as inflammation and the associated oxidative stress is known to cause damage to the tissues of the brain which can lead to the development of mental deterioration. Studies have assessed the effects of chlorella on subjects with major depressive disorder in order to investigate the potential beneficial effects. In one study, depressed subjects on antidepressant medication received either 1800 mg per day of Chlorella vulgaris extract and their normal drug therapy for 6 weeks or just their normal drug therapy. After 6 weeks, there was a significant reduction in certain depressive symptoms and anxious feelings in the chlorella group, when compared to other subjects taking just their normal drug medication, suggesting a significant antidepressant effect for chlorella.
Chlorella is a rich source of carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acid, essential amino acids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, dietary fiber, minerals and growth factors. Some or all of these compounds may contribute to the antidepressant effects of chlorella.
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