POTENTIAL OF EFFERVESCENT SPIRULINA SUPPLEMENTATION IN IMPROVING HEMATOLOGICAL PROFILES AS A BASIS FOR MALARIA- ASSOCIATED ANEMIA MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Malaria remains a global health burden, with anemia as one of its major complications caused by erythrocyte destruction. This condition reduces red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit, impairing oxygen transport. Natural hematinic agents are therefore needed as supportive strategies in malaria management. Spirulina is rich in proteins, iron, vitamin B12, and phycocyanin, all of which play essential roles in erythropoiesis. This study aimed to evaluate the potential
of Effervescent Spirulina supplementation in improving hematological profiles in mice (Mus musculus). Six experimental groups were assigned: control (0%) and Spirulina at concentrations of 7.5%, 15%, 30%, 35%, and 50%. Hematological parameters (RBC count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit) were measured at baseline, week I, week II, and
week III. The results show that Spirulina supplementation at 15% and 50% significantly increased hemoglobin (14.57–16.3 g/dL) and hematocrit (46.33–56.27%) during weeks
I–II, although values declined by week III. Moderate doses (7.5–30%) produced more stable effects compared to higher doses (35–50%), which showed fluctuations. Effervescent Spirulina supplementation demonstrates potential as a natural hematinic agent to support anemia prevention in malaria. These findings provide a scientific basis for developing Spirulina as an adjuvant therapy in malaria management.