SPIRULINA
Common Names: Spirulina, Blue algae.
Scientific Name: Spirulina maxima or Spirulina platensis
When to Find: Spring, summer, fall.
Where to Find: Alkaline waters of lakes or basins.
Parts Used: Entire plant. Note: This was the main source of protein and vitamins for the Aztecs. Plant is 60-70% protein, and high in vitamin B12.
Preparation: Pour into cloth bag and allow water to drain away. Sun dry algae and cut into small blocks. Cook as a green.
Storage: Keep sun dried blocks dry and cool. May be frozen for long-term storage.
Identification: A blue-green algae-shaped like a very small corkscrew shaped worm.
