Health Guide

Dunnia sinensis

Dunaliella Salina is a unique, salt-loving microalgae that acts as a powerhouse of natural nutrition. Often glowing a vibrant red due to its massive accumulation of beta-carotene (a precursor to Vitamin A), this supplement is nature's answer to protecting your body from oxidative stress. Unlike synthetic vitamins, this algae provides a complex mix of carotenoids, healthy fatty acids, and glycerol. It is best known for supporting eye health, protecting skin from UV damage, and boosting overall immunity naturally. Think of it as the 'sunscreen' your body creates from the inside out.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Beta-Carotene Concentration (Comparison)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Concentration (mg/100g)

Source →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Eye Health: Supports vision by providing Beta-Carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A.
Skin Protection: Helps build resistance to UV radiation and sunburn.
Antioxidant Power: Fights free radicals that cause aging and cellular damage.
Immune Boost: Essential for the proper functioning of white blood cells.

Deep Dive

Dunaliella Salina is the richest known source of Beta-Carotene on the planet. While you can get Beta-Carotene from carrots, Dunaliella offers a much higher concentration in a bioavailable form. It also contains Alpha-carotene, Cryptoxanthin, Zeaxanthin, and Lutein. This combination is superior to synthetic beta-carotene because it mimics the complex profile found in nature. It is particularly beneficial for people with high exposure to the sun or those looking to support their vision as they age.

Natural Food Sources

While Dunaliella Salina is an algae, the nutrient it provides (Beta-Carotene) is found in colorful vegetables. The best way to get this is through a diet rich in orange and leafy green foods.

Food	Amount	% DV (Beta-Carotene)
Sweet Potato (Baked)	1 cup	280%
Carrots (Raw)	1 cup	430%
Spinach (Cooked)	1 cup	180%
Cantaloupe	1 cup	120%
Red Bell Pepper	1 cup	90%

Supplementation

Since Dunaliella is a specific algae, you generally must take it as a supplement (capsule or oil) to get the concentrated dose.

Dosage: Typical doses range from 100 mg to 300 mg daily.
Who should take it: People with low fruit/vegetable intake, those seeking skin protection, or individuals needing immune support.

Top Food Sources

Dunaliella Salina Capsules

Best for concentrated dosage (12% carotenoids)

Sweet Potato

Approx 11mg per 100g

Carrots

Approx 8mg per 100g

Pumpkin

Rich in mixed carotenoids

Kale

High in Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Spirulina is a blue-green algae high in protein. Dunaliella is a green microalgae (that turns red) high in Beta-Carotene.

In very high doses, a condition called carotenemia can occur, giving skin a yellow-orange tint. This is harmless and reverses when intake is lowered.

Yes, it is 100% plant-based (algal) and suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

It is grown in saltwater ponds. The salt stress triggers the algae to produce massive amounts of beta-carotene to protect itself.

Safety & Side Effects

Dunaliella Salina is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, because it is high in Vitamin A precursors:

Smokers Warning: High doses of Beta-Carotene have been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer in heavy smokers. If you smoke, consult a doctor before taking high-dose carotenoid supplements.
Pregnancy: While dietary sources are safe, high-dose supplements should be used only under medical supervision.
Surgery: Because it affects blood clotting, stop taking it at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery.

Scientific References

[1]Bendich, A. (1990). 'Biological functions of dietary carotenoids.' *Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences*.
[2]Shaish, A., et al. (2000). 'The role of beta-carotene in preventing skin cancer.' *Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology*.
[3]Ben-Amotz, A. (1999). 'Dunaliella beta-carotene: From algae to Mars.' *Journal of Applied Phycology*.