Traditional use: Not a herb with ancient traditional use; developed as a food and nutritional supplement in Japan from the 1950s onward as a concentrated whole-food nutrient source, detoxification agent, and immune tonic—particularly following post-war interest in algae as a sustainable protein source. 

Potential benefits: Exceptionally nutrient-dense—rich in chlorophyll, complete protein, B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3s; Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) supports cellular repair; clinical research supports heavy metal chelation, immune modulation, cholesterol reduction, and antioxidant activity. 

Warnings: May cause digestive upset, nausea, and green stools initially—introduce gradually; high vitamin K content may interfere with warfarin; may cause photosensitivity; quality and contamination vary significantly between suppliers—third-party testing essential; avoid in autoi