Commercial agar is obtained from a red alga. Algae proponents claim a compound found in BGE has anti- HIV activity. It's not known whether this activity would be available from oral consumption of the algae. Spirulina is marketed for weight loss, diabetes, hypoglycemia, degenerative conditions, malnutrition, and alcoholism. Wild BGA is said to treat addictions.
Red algae is marketed to treat candida, herpes simplex virus and other chronic ailments.
Investigations found 10 members of Rhodophyta contained substances that caused greater than a 2 log reduction in the infectivity of herpes simplex virus. Dumontiaceae is marketed as an immuno-modulatory and antiviral agent. Algae proponents stress that individuals with chronic conditions will gain more value from the red marine algae, which is said to strengthen the immune system . Consumers are advised that cleansing reactions such as, headaches, tiredness, running nose, constipation or diarrhea may appear. Other symptoms, such as, fatigue, skin rashes, polyuria, nervousness, and increased susceptibility to the flu or colds will supposedly pass in 1-7 days.