What Are the Dangers of Chlorella?

Chlorella is a variety of algae found in fresh water such as lakes or ponds. Despite its use by herbalists to boost the immune system and treat digestive conditions, chlorella poses a risk for side effects in some patients.

Types of Side Effects

• Common side effects of chlorella include diarrhea, nausea, gas, a green discoloration to your stool and stomach cramps. Although unpleasant, the common side effects of chlorella pose little risk for long-term health complications.

Time Frame

• Side effects from chlorella are most common during the first week of treatment with the herb and may gradually diminish after that time, reports RxList.

Risks

• Some patients develop severe allergic reactions to chlorella, causing shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, skin hives, an itchy rash, or swelling of your face, extremities or throat, explains the Physicians' Desktop Reference. In some cases, these reactions are life-threatening and require emergency medical treatment.

Warning

• Chlorella may make your skin more sensitive to the sun, reports the Physicians' Desktop Reference. Because of this, avoid tanning and use sunscreen when you will be outside to avoid severe sunburns.

Considerations

• Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, avoid using chlorella if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have a history of iodine sensitivity, asthma, multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or another auto-immune disease or if you are being treated with immuno-suppressant drugs such as cyclosporine, it may not be safe for you to take chlorella, cautions RxList.