The benefits and side effects of l-arginine

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L-arginine is an amino acid and is considered to be one of the essential building blocks of protein. It is most commonly used by trainers and fitness experts as a dietary supplement in an attempt to induce training performance, particularly with regards to gaining higher energy and overcoming muscle fatigue.

The benefits of l-arginine largely relate to the increase in the concentration of nitric oxide, which is a compound developed by the endothelium of the blood vessels that is known for expanding blood vessels.

Additionally, l-arginine is also used for improving cardiovascular health by dilating clogged arteries and increasing proper blood flow to the body.

Other uses for l-arginine include treating wounds, improve liver function, and foster an efficient number of hormones in the body.

The following is a detailed guide to l-arginine and how you should use it for best results.

L-Arginine, or arginine, is developed naturally inside the human body.

As an amino acid, it becomes nitric oxide, which is then released into the bloodstream according to certain physiological changes, such as changes in blood pressure and cholesterol (1).

Arginine also signals your body to produce more protein, which has a considerable uses for gaining muscle and strength and for increasing sperm count.

However, arginine is not very beneficial for people suffering from heart conditions or pregnant women. In lieu of this, caution is advised.

More importantly, arginine also stimulates the growth of vital growth hormones along with glucose that enable you body to obtain the necessary nutrients for growth and higher energy.

This leads to a host of advantages that will be looked into greater detail.

Recommended dosage

Unless you are using a supplement, your body is generates a sufficient amount of l-arginine in the body.

You can increase the amount of l-arginine by eating foods such as eggs, dairy products, fish, and red meat.

However, if you intend of using supplements for training or some medical reason, you need to make sure you are within the 1200 mg per day limit.

For best results, consult a trained medical physician to weigh the risks and benefits associated with the supplement on your health.

Health benefits of l-arginine

There are various studies to show that l-arginine can help you gain muscle, boost male sexual health, and also improve cardiovascular health.

As for muscle growth, a 2009 study (2) shows that l-arginine can lead to muscle growth and fat loss. The study was experimented on 24 pigs over a 60 day period found tremendous results in overall weight loss and muscle development.

Another study conducted by Zajac et.al (3) found that increases in l-arginine leads to an increase in growth hormone levels.

This has important results for bodybuilders and trainers who train to burn fat and achieve large muscle size. The l-arginine can lead to better protein synthesis and fat metabolism.

In addition, the release of nitric oxide provides a host of advantages in reducing recovery times in between training days to help overcome DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) and acute muscle soreness.

What this means is that you’re fatigued and sore muscles will be able to recover a lot faster and maximize your workout performance.

Secondly, l-arginine is also found to have important applications for fostering healthy sexual lives for both men and women.

For men, it has the capacity to treat erectile dysfunction (4). Since it turns into nitric oxide, l-arginine can ensure healthy penile erection by expanding penis blood vessels and promoting proper blood flow. As a result, the penis can become stiff efficiently and remain erect for longer durations for engaging in sexual activities.

Increases in sperm count have also associated with a rise in l-arginine levels in the body. This offers a ray of hope to infertile men and gives them the opportunity to participate in healthy sexual activities.

Thirdly, l-arginine is also has been discovered to substantially improve cardiovascular health. By turning into nitric oxide, the amino acid eases clogged arteries and ensures health blood circulation.

This is also beneficial for alleviating chest pains and symptoms of coronary heart disease (5). However, the benefits of l-arginine on the heart are not conclusive; hence, it should be used on a case-by-case basis.

Side effects of l-arginine

Although there are clear benefits to the function of l-arginine, there are also certain side-effects that need to be considered prior to use. This is why it is crucial that you consult your medical physician.

Heart patients need to be especially cautious prior to using any l-arginine supplements. There is research to support l-arginine, in fact, can lead to poor heart health.

A John Hopkins study concluded the l-arginine neither improves vascular stiff nor does it increase ejection fraction (6). The study also led to the death of 6 patients of the l-arginine which led the study being cancelled at an early stage.

There are also minor side effects associated with l-arginine that can be experienced as a result of overdose. Some of these side effects are nausea, diarrhea, and weakness in the body.

This is why it is important that you pay close attention to the type of diet you are following. We have already mentioned how l-arginine is found in many food sources. A diet rich in such foods along with l-arginine supplements can heighten the risks of an overdose.

For muscle building, l-arginine can boost your physical endurance levels and minimize recovery periods during and between workout days. If you have a medical condition, such as erectile dysfunction, impotence, or a heart disease, l-arginine can help you alleviate its symptoms. However, you should never hasten to use it without consulting your medical physician.

Summary: L-arginine supplements can be used by adults, children, athletes, and overweight or obese people. However, since your body already produces enough l-arginine by consuming the right food sources, you do not necessarily are in need of supplements unless you have a medical problem or are looking to get in shape and build muscle.

http://bodynutrition.org/l-arginine/

The benefits and side effects of DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine)

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1,3-dimethylamylamine (DMAA) is a synthetically produced neural stimulant used as a key ingredient in dietary supplements to improve athletic performance and provide increased energy. In terms of chemical structure, it is similar to Ephedrine.

It is also known as methylhexanamine and can be traded under the names Forthane and Geranamine.

Although originally introduced as a nasal decongestant, it is now used for a variety of reasons including as a supplement for enhancing athletic performance, weight loss, and attention deficit-hyperactive disorder (ADHD). Some bodybuilders use DMAA as a pre-workout stimulant as well.

Not much is known about 1,3-dimethylamylamine. And this problem is further exacerbated with the shortage of research data and dubious claims by certain manufacturers.

Dosage instructions for 1,3-dimethylamylamine

Before using DMAA to stimulate increase in mental energy and focus, it is important to read the dosage recommendations by the manufacturer. Its overuse may lead to adverse effects.

For best results, DMAA should not be consumed on a daily basis. Instead, you can use it as a part of a cycle with the periods of use evenly spaced out and interspersed with periods of non-use. The goal, here, is to avoid dependence on DMAA supplements.

A common lower dosage range of 1,3-dimethylamylamine based supplement or product is around 10-20 mg and it can eventually reach higher ranges of up to 40-60 mg.

You should note, however, that these dosage ranges are not based on any form of scientific evidence. Instead, these values are derived from usage recommendations of the manufacturers of DMAA supplements available in the market.

It is typically used half an hour before the workout, study session, or any other time when your body requires extra energy or sharper focus. You may take up multiple low doses in a day. However, one daily administration is often considered enough.

After the dosage, the effects may last up to many hours. After that, some people may experience an energy ‘crash’ in which a sudden drop in energy levels may be observed.

Some people may also find that the effects of using DMAA products are too over-powering and are do not improve brain function. Instead of enhanced focus, some users may experience increased anxiety which makes it even harder to focus than usual.

It is due to some of the potential adverse affects that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed DMAA products unsafe and advises consumers not to purchase any dietary supplement containing DMAA. (1)

Due to the lack of substantial and authoritative scientific research on 1,3-dimethylamylamine, the effects of DMAA-based products are not fully understood. However, according to some of the claims, DMAA is primarily responsible for the release of norepinephrine.

Norepinephrine is among the neurotransmitters that, when released, may lead to increase in the levels of energy, focus, attention, and mental alertness.

When entered into the body, 1,3-dimethylamylamine passes the intestinal tract to be absorbed in the bloodstream. It travels along the bloodstream, crosses the blood brain barrier and enters the central nervous system to stimulate the release of neurotransmitters.

Some manufacturers also claim that 1,3-dimethylamylamine also stimulates the release of another powerful neurotransmitter, dopamine, which is a mood enhancing agent.

1,3-dimethylamylamine benefits

Based on some of the claims made by the manufacturers of DMAA-based products or supplements, 1,3-dimethylamylamine can be said to primarily serve as a central nervous system stimulant. The potential benefits of these products are primarily related to an enhancement of the cognitive ability.

In simple terms, the use of 1,3-dimethylamylamine may lead to an increase in energy and focus. It is due to these purported benefits that many students and professional workers use DMAA products for heightened senses and an increase in focus.

Since DMAA-based products may lead to a release of dopamine, they can also lead to a sensation of temporary euphoria. This includes an improved mood and a general feeling of happiness.

Some bodybuilders and weight training athletes use 1,3-dimethylamylamine supplements as well. The energy release functions of DMAA products make them an effective pre-workout support. The enhanced cognitive ability, in addition to the increased strength, can provide an added focus and motivation.

The enhanced focus and energy can further increase tolerance to pain and improve stamina. This provides valuable support during intense workout sessions.

Research suggests the use of 1,3-dimethylamylamine may cause vasoconstriction. This means that the blood vessels are constricted to increase blood pressure. This occurs without a corresponding increase in the heart rate. (2)

The increased blood pressure can stimulate muscle growth at lower intensity levels. But the level of increase in blood pressure depends upon the dosage.

1,3-dimethylamylamine side effects

Although the consumption of 1,3-dimethylamylamine leads to a spike in energy levels, some users report a subsequent rapid drop or ‘crash’ in these energy levels a few hours after its use. Along with the drop in energy levels, the crash may also lead to a change in mood.

The FDA warns consumers about the variety of potential side effects caused by the use of DMAA-based products. According to the FDA, the vasoconstriction or the narrowing of blood vessels caused by 1,3-dimethylamylamine can lead to cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, seizures, shortness of breath, and tightening in the chest.

Other potential adverse effects, according to the FDA, may include arrhythmias, neurological conditions, psychiatric disorders, nervous system disorders and, in certain extreme cases, even death. (3)

However, it should be noted that research suggests that many of the adverse outcomes associated with the use of DMAA-based products are simply due to the overuse of the product. (4) These effects can be avoided by sticking to the regular dosage range of around 25-75 mg at a time.

To avoid some of the side effects of DMAA-based products, bodybuilders and weight trainers, should opt for foods with high protein content instead.  

Safety precautions

Due to the similarity with amphetamine-based products, 1,3-dimethylamylamine can cause false positives for amphetamines in doping tests. (5)

The World Anti-Doping Agency has included it in its 2010 list of prohibited substances. The American military has also restricted its use. Various countries, like Australia and Canada, are also taking active measures to prohibit its use.

Summary: If you are looking for supplements to enhance cognitive functions and provide increased energy, DMAA-based supplements can do the trick. However, due to a shortage of available research on its effects and some of the possible side effects, it is better to use safer alternatives.

http://bodynutrition.org/dmaa/

The side effects and benefits of alpha-lipoic acid

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Alpha-lipoic acid is one of the fatty acids from the mitochondrial family of fatty acids hat fights against inflammation and oxidation. It is one of the finest fatty acids when it comes to energy metabolism. Synthesized in the human body, you can consume alpha-lipoic acid by eating meat and also some vegetables and fruits [1].

Alpha-lipoic acid is also found in supplement form. As a supplement it has shown great benefits when it comes to fighting against inflammation and oxidation. There are also added benefits of the supplement that help in protection of the body against liver diseases, heart disease, neurological decline that tends to happen with age and diabetes.

Alpha-lipoic acid is an anti oxidant compound. The fatty acids work with the natural anti oxidant defenses of the body and mitochondria. It is also a great anti aging compound and can be helpful in reversing the aging effects caused by oxidant damage.

Alpha-lipoic Acid is also known as thioctic acid. It can be found in some vegetables and fruits and in meats, especially organ tissues. If you are looking for food items that have an ample amount of alpha-lipoic acid in them, consider taking the following:

• Liver
• Spinach
• Kidney
• Broccoli
• Tomatoes
• Heart tissue

Alpha-lipoic acid is commonly taken with supplements having l-cartinine as they are both related in how they work. There is a short, but a highly potent oxidation reduction given by ALA through an increase in the production of antioxidant enzymes. Blood glucose may also be acutely decreased when ALA is taken.

Benefits of taking alpha-lipoic acid

ALA can be possibly beneficial in a number of ways. Let’s have a look at them below.

Diabetes: Taking ALA intravenously or orally seems to improve the levels of sugar in blood in people who have diabetes.

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft: Research suggests that taking in ALA in combination with omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium, selenium and CoQ10 for up to 2 months prior to the surgery and for a month after the surgery has found to decrease the complications that usually arise after the CABG surgery.

Pre-diabetes: Evidence suggests that taking 600 mg of ALA intravenously can decrease the level of blood sugar that tends to rise after meals.

Diabetic Nerve Pain: When alpha-lipoic acid is taken orally, it can improve symptoms such as numbness [2], pain and burning in the arms and legs of people who have diabetes. The symptoms need a period of about 3-5 weeks for showing signs of improvement.

Vitiligo: Taking a product that has a combination of vitamin E, vitamin C and alpha-lipoic Acid along with a daily light therapy for about 8 months can improve skin coloration among people suffering from Vitiligo and have patchy skin.

Weight Loss: One of the main benefits of taking alpha-lipoic acid is the weight loss tendency it has. Taking ALA daily in 1800 mg for 20 weeks can help in the reduction of weight.

Alpha-lipoic acid works in the body by preventing damage to certain kinds of body cells. It is also known to be helpful for the body as it helps in the restoration of vitamin C and vitamin E in the body. The conduction of neurons and their function is also largely improved when alpha-lipoic acid is taken.

Carbohydrates are broken down in the body with the use of alpha-lipoic acid. This helps in making energy for all the organs of the body.

Alpha-lipoic acid is also found to work as an antioxidant; hence it can be helpful when it comes to protecting brain against injury or damage. There is certain liver diseases as well that the alpha-lipoic acid is found to be helpful in curing.

Alpha-lipoic acid is considered possibly safe [3] when taken orally by adults, when applied to skin, as well as, when taken intravenously. It is found however that people taking alpha-lipoic acid orally may get a rash. People with thiamine deficiency or with a risk of it should take alpha-lipoic acid along with a thiamine supplement.

Alpha-lipoic acid can cause a lowering of blood sugar level; hence people with diabetes taking alpha-lipoic acid should keep a constant check on the level of blood sugar in their body.

Side effects of alpha-lipoic acid

There is not much known about the effects of taking alpha-lipoic acid during breast feeding and pregnancy. It should therefore be avoided during these times to stay on the safe side.

Alpha-lipoic acid can decrease the level of sugar in blood. When taking ALA, it is important to adjust the dosage of medicines taken for diabetes that are provided by the healthcare provider.

The amount of thiamine may be decreased with the use of alcohol. Thiamine deficiency and taking in of alpha-lipoic acid may not work well for the body. There are some serious health problems related to their combined use. If you are a heavy drinker and are taking alpha-lipoic acid, it is important for you to take along a thiamine supplement.

If you have over active or under active thyroid and you want to take alpha-lipoic acid, it is better to check with your doctor first because it can interfere with the treatments.

Alpha-lipoic acid is also found in supplement form. As a supplement it has shown great benefits when it comes to fighting against inflammation and oxidation. Always consult your physician before taking alpha-lipoic acid or any other kind of supplement to keep yourself away from any possible side effects.

Summary: Alpha-lipoic acid is one of the best compounds when it comes to increasing the metabolism of the body since it breaks carbohydrates and provides energy needed to run organs. It can be taken orally or in intravenous form and is also found in meats and a number of vegetables and fruits, and can help in protecting the body against liver diseases, heart disease, and neurological decline that tends to happen with age and diabetes.

http://bodynutrition.org/alpha-lipoic-acid/

The benefits and side effects of anatabine

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Anatabine (branded Anatabloc) is a minor alkaloid found in plants of the Solanaceae family which includes tomatoes, eggplants chili peppers and tobacco (1). Anatabine is known to be anti-inflammatory in nature and can be useful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Moreover, when the immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissue and result in several autoimmune diseases, anatabine can be used to reduce the immune system’s process to protect the healthy tissue.

Anatabine is known as Anatabloc in its supplement from that is commercially available. Here is a comprehensive list of all that you need to know about anatabine.

STAT3 is s a protein that is responsible for hindering the process of a protein that does the DNA transcription in our bodies. Anatabine works by inhibiting this protein and thus protecting the body from autoimmune diseases that would occur if it is not regulated (2).

For its use as an anti-inflammatory, it enters the bloodstream and deactivates the protein NFkB in the cells of the body (3), this means that NFkB cannot enter the nucleus of the cell and cause inflammation.

Since anatabine stays in the body longer, it works for a longer time to prevent and fight inflammation and autoimmune diseases.

Dosage

The research for anatabine has been conducted on animals but not humans, as yet. So a recommended dosage cannot be safely suggested due to the lack of evidence of the after effects on human beings on the intake of this alkaloid.

Nevertheless, the research that has been conducted on animals, for the intent of fighting autoimmune diseases, has shown that an oral dose of 12.5 to 20 mg per kilogram of the bodyweight of a mouse was shown to have positive effects. Translating this dose for human bodyweight, we get a dose of:

• 70 to 110 mg for a 150lb person
• 90 to 150 mg for a 200lb person
• 110 to 180 mg for a 250lb person

The product, Anatabloc, that is easily available in the market, comes in the form of tablets and includes anatabine, Vitamin A and Vitamin D3. The product is recommended to be taken according to the bodyweight. The maximum limit for the number of tablets that can be taken in a day is twelve. It can be taken up to six times on a daily basis to treat cellular inflammation, reduce body aches and decrease the symptoms of pain that are related to Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, Crohn’s disease and chronic inflammation.

Benefits of anatabine

Preliminary results of clinical research has shown great potential of this minor alkaloid to treat many diseases such as Crohn’s disease, autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer’s disease and chronic inflammation. Let’s have a look at the research-backed benefits individually.

The compound of anatabine resembles that of nicotine. This is why it has been used in some anti-smoking supplements. As we have mentioned before, anatabine stays in the body longer, this property is the reason why it has been the topic of various researches to help people quit smoking. A research has shown that smoking is negatively connected with the presence of thyroid antibodies, specifically TgAbs (3). Anatabine has been shown to effectively reduce the levels of TgAbs (4).

Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia, which is progressive in nature and worsens over time. It causes problems with thinking and memory and in severe cases, in behavior (5). NFkB regulates the protein that is responsible for the regulation of BACE-1, which limits the production of abeta deposits. Research shows that abeta deposits, in both soluble and insoluble forms, are the ones responsible for initiating the cascade that leads to Alzheimer’s disease (6). Anatabine has shown to suppress the NFkB (3), which suppresses the BACE-1, which ends up inhibiting the abeta deposits. This is huge news for the Alzheimer’s related research, and further clinical studies of this alkaloid can help in creating safe methods to treat Alzheimer’s with anatabine. If proper studies conducted on humans show a path to this disease’s treatment, it will truly be a breakthrough in the field of medicine.

Anatabine has the property to fight autoimmune diseases by banning the STAT3 protein. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto’s disease, is one of the autoimmune diseases in which the immune system attacks the thyroid. This, in turn, can lead to the thyroid unable to produce enough hormones to supplement the body’s needs. In a human study, the nutritional supplement of anatabine has shown to confirm positive results in the treatment of Hashimoto’s disease (4).

Side effects of anatabine

Although anatabine is proven on many accounts to be safe, many studies on human groups have shown some side effects of the alkaloid. Some of these include:

• Insomnia
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Tingling of the skin
• Nausea

Although there are some side effects of this compound, it is proven that it has huge affects in fighting inflammation of the body and has continued to provide positive results in almost all the research that has been conducted.

There are some negative reviews of the product Anatabloc, which includes the major ingredient anatabine. Reviewers have mentioned that using this supplement resulted in them not being able to have a good night’s sleep. Others have mentioned that the use of this product led them to have a bad case of hiccups.

It is necessary to note that the use of this supplement should be first recommended by a doctor so that you can easily benefit from the product without any side effects.

Summary: Preliminary studies have shown great promise in the use of anatabine in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, inflammation and auto immune diseases, but there is still much research yet to be done to find out the true potential of this alkaloid which seems to be a great way to cure the aforementioned diseases. We hope that the clinical research of this product will garner more information and practical uses so that many people can benefit from it.

http://bodynutrition.org/anatabine/

The side effects and benefits of dogbane (apocynum venetum)

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Dogbane, also known as apocynum venetum has long been used in Chinese medicine for the treatment of depression and hypertension. It was also used as a source of fiber by North American Aboriginals and is grown in Asia, Northern Europe, and North America.

While there are seven species of the dogbane plant the most noteworthy of them is called apocynum venetum. [1]

In Chinese culture, dogbane leaves have been used to make tea for thousands of years. Originally, the leaves of the small shrub have shown to possess anti-lipid peroxidation and anti-oxidant effects as well. In recent times, dogbane has gained popularity in the west due to its many health benefits, which was not known of before.

Dogbane is said to have certain sedative, cardio-protective and diuretic properties that are currently being researched on [2]. While most of the evidence of its health benefits are based on animal evidence, dogbane is believed to have a mild anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effect, but further research is needed to determine its main mechanism.

Tea made with dogbane leaves have long been recognized by the Chinese as an effective medication for liver imbalance and hypertension. Furthermore, the Chinese have also formulated a tea from dogbane leaves called ‘luobuma tea’ which is very popular in China and parts of the Far East.

Active ingredients

The leaves of the dogbane plant seem to be high on flavonoids and quercetin variants, which have been found to help fight hypertension, anxiety and depression. Apart from that, dogbane benefits are mainly derived from its active constituents among which are:

• Ionone glucosides
• Kaempferol
• Vanillic acid
• Baimaside
• Daucosterol
• Rutin
• D-catechin
• Quercetin and
• Kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucoside

Health benefits

Dogbane has a long history as a Chinese traditional medicine which has been used to soothe the nerves, calm the liver and dissipate heat. Modern pharmacological studies [3] [4] have also demonstrated that Dogbane possess a wide range of pharmacological activities. Due to the high levels of various flavonoid compounds present in the plant, it can also be used for the following:

• Anti-hypertensive
• Antioxidant
• Cardiotonic
• Hepatoprotective
• Lipid-lowering
• Antidepressant
• Anxiolytic

Cardiovascular Diseases: There are many Chinese herbal medicines which have been used for a wide variety of pharmacological activities and for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases as well. Dogbane has been one of those herbal medicines which have been used since the Xinjiang period and in areas of Tibet.

Blood Pressure: In a clinical study which was conducted in China, dogbane leaf extract was used on 60 subjects. The mean blood pressure in all of the subjects was recorded to have dropped from 171 to 154 and 148 mmHg after the treatment, which lasted for four and eight weeks.

Effective Anti-Depressant: Research on dogbane has been conducted not only in western countries, but also in countries such as China, Japan and Korea, where the herb has been widely used both preventively and remedially by the middle-aged and elderly. The research which has been carried out so far, suggests that dogbane definitely lowers blood pressure by increasing the amount of nitric oxide and thus causing vasodilatation. Yet there is other research that suggests that dogbane is effective for hypercholesteremia and the prevention of atherosclerosis. [5] [6]

The following are some of the other health benefits of using dogbane.

• Help relax the blood vessels
• Can help fight edema due to heart or kidney problems
• Can help to detoxify the body
• Believed to help fight complications due to diabetes
• Believed to help combat insomnia, irritability, headaches, vertigo, dizziness and palpitations due to liver hyperactivity
• Assists in better blood flow to the kidney

Further investigations will be needed in order to explore all of the individual bioactive compounds that are responsible for the in-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological effects of using dogbane.

Dosage

Dogbane tea can easily be obtained in readymade teabags. All you have to do is place a teabag in a cup of boiling water and allow it to steep for around five minutes. While the tea has a great aroma, its bitter, sweet and astringent taste could prove to be too much for your palette. Nonetheless, its many health benefits is one of the main reasons why most people prefer dogbane tea and use it as their preferred beverage.

While further research [7] is still needed in order to recommend an optimal dose for dogbane, it has been found that most of the health benefits occur when the dosage is kept between 25 to 100 mg per kilo of bodyweight. That being said, by using this formula, one can come up with an estimated dosage for dogbane which would provide maximum health benefits

• Person weighing 150lb > 270 – 1,100 mg of dogbane
• Person weighing 200lb > 360 – 1,400 mg of dogbane
• Person weighing 250lb > 450 – 1,800 mg of dogbane

Dogbane is a food product, which means that the aforementioned recommended dosage is ideal when making tea. This of course, would mean that there would be no need for additional non-tea supplementation while using dogbane.

Side effects

Although dogbane is widely used in Chinese medicine for its functions of reducing the incidence of arrhythmia, there are certain side effects which occur after the prolonged use of dogbane. While there are no severe side effects, some of the most common side effects of long term use of dogbane includes, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. People are advised to consult with their doctor before using dogbane.

Summary: The health benefits of dogbane have only been found through animal studies. Research carried out on rodents has shown that dogbane has the potential to reduce anxiety and can also be used as an anti-depressant, much like other similar herbs. It has therapeutic potential in both the prevention and treatment of neurological and cardiovascular diseases and has given some promising results as a blood pressure lowering agent as well.

http://bodynutrition.org/dogbane/

The benefits and side effects of aronia (aronia melanocarpa)

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Aronia or aronia melanocarpa is also known as ‘black chokeberry’ and is considered by many to be the healthiest fruit in the world, offering more health benefits than any other superfood. [1]

Aronia melanocarpa is one of the three species of berry-producing plants of the rosaceae family and is most commonly found in swamps and woodlands along the eastern seaboard of North America.

The shrubbery grows to 2 to 3 meters and bears white flowers which in time produce small berries of around 13 mm. While its use is limited due to its astringent and sour taste, it is usually mixed with other fruits when used in commercial products because of its high pectin content, which makes it a good preservative. The wild berry is also used in Germany, Russia and Europe in fruit juices, syrups, jellies, spreads and tea. Aronia is also used as a flavoring or colorant for beverages or yogurts. Wine is made in Lithuania our of aronia, while in Poland, the berries are dried to make an herbal tea sometimes blended with other flavorful ingredients like blackcurrant.

But more importantly, aronia is also used for its many health benefits which is why it has been named a super fruit. The small dark purple fruit has made quite a name for itself in the health food world and has increased in popularity over the past decade.

For those who are wondering how aronia stacks up against other super fruits. As compared to blueberry, another more popular super fruit, which has an ORAC score of 6,520 [2], aronia has an incredible ORAC score of 15,820. The ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) score is a method of measurement that is used for measuring the antioxidant capacity in various foods and supplements. Research has found that foods that have a higher ORAC score tend to have more health benefits than others.

Health benefits

Aronia has attracted much scientific interest in recent years due to its deep purple color and almost black pigmentation which arises from its dense contents of polyphenols and anthocyanins. According to studies, 1480 mg of anthocyanin content is found per 100 g, while polyphenol content has been measured at 1752 mg per 100 g in fresh aronia berries. [3]

Anti-carcinogenic properties: The main component that is credited with most of the health benefits in the fruit is due to group of chemicals that are called polyphenols, which are potent antioxidants, considered to protect the body from cellular damage caused by carcinogens found in Alcohol. [4]

Fights against heart disease: Its relatively high amount of phenolic constituents is also responsible for a wide range of health benefits. While research is being carried out, the results so far have been quite promising. Phenolics have also been found to be effective in limiting the atherosclerotic damage caused by heart disease.

Anti-inflammatory: Japanese researchers have also found that aronia can block the action of COX-2, which is an extremely potent pro-inflammatory agent. Apart from its COX-2 blocking capabilities, aronia has also shown to decrease gastric irritation caused by certain non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs.

Antioxidant source: Research has also found that aronia is one of the richest sources of anthocyanins, with 100 gram of the fruit containing as much as ca. 500 mg of anthocyanins. After consumption, aronia helps increase the antioxidant capacity of the blood which protects the body against oxidative stress. Furthermore, aronia also combines the health benefits of green tea and red wine by containing both types of polyphenols, catechins and anthocyanins.

Urinary tract health: Another benefit of including the aronia berries in your diet is because it helps keep the urinary tract from UTIs (urinary tract infections). Millions of people from around the world suffer from various UTIs, with the main causal agent being escherichia coli. Some of its symptoms include frequent urination, accompanied by pain. New studies have revealed that along with cranberries, aronia berries are also effective in the fight against UTIs. In fact, aronia has been found to be five times more effective than cranberries because of its high levels of quinic acid, which has been proven to prevent urinary tract infections.

Weight control: Aronia berries have also proven to be helpful when it comes to regulating weight. It does this by preventing the body from storing fat around the abdomen. Another added benefit of using aronia is that it improves lipid and cholesterol levels in the body, consequently helping the body produce good cholesterol. [5]

Other benefits: Aronia can be very beneficial in cases of arthritis, hypertension, inflammation, cardiovascular conditions and other infections. The use of aronia has also been found to strengthen blood vessels, support natural immunity, lower blood pressure levels, and even delay the natural aging process.

Dosage

Because of the endless list of health problems that are caused by cellular oxidative processes, aronia is still undergoing extensive research for its use in health conditions such as diabetes and neurological disorders.

Aronia is normally available in juice, extract and powder form from most health food stores. While the freshly picked aronia berries have a sugar content of around 20%, the sweetness is offset by the high amount of tannins and other chemicals that are responsible for its sour and astringent taste. Whether aronia is taken as a powder filled capsule, or in liquid extract form, the recommended daily dosage is 150 to 400 mg, which is to be taken after meals. [6]

Side effects

While there have been no reports of side effects after ingestion, since it is a plant substance there could be certain allergic responses in some people. Those who are using aronia are advised to contact their physician if they suspect aronia to be the cause of any discomfort.

Summary: Aronia is a nutraceutical fruit crop that offers an extremely high amount of healthy elements in the form of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and nutrients. While there is still much research to be carried out on the fruit and its benefits, it is currently ranked as one of the top eight in the super fruits category.

http://bodynutrition.org/aronia/

The side effects and benefits of alanine

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Alanine is regarded as a non-essential amino-acid that is responsible for building important proteins in the body. It is one of the most important nutrients for amino acid metabolism in the blood, and after it has been synthesized it is absorbed by the liver and then converted. The compound is important, especially when it comes to blood sugar management and glucose production.

Alanine supplements are often used to treat hypoglycaemia, in order to prevent organisms to suffer from insulin shocks or low blood sugar levels. The supplement works to immediately release glucose in the blood stream, thereby ensuring better health. Other important functions of this amino acid ensure supporting the immune system and preventing kidney stones. This is the reason why alanine is often used as a treatment option in orthomolecular medicine.

You can suffer from a shortage of alanine in the body due to poor nutrition, the environment, stress, and a low protein diet. However, you shouldn’t worry as you can easily compensate it with dietary supplements.

Side effects of alanine

Some side effects can include ongoing muscle atrophy, faintness or fatigue, but you won’t have to worry about this if you take the proper dosage of alanine.

Alanine can be easily lost and washed away in foods, because it has strong hydrophilic properties. Therefore foods that have large amounts of alanine shouldn’t be soaked or cooked for too long. It can be found in proteins such as beef and fish, and it is recommended that you should consume them to cover your recommended daily dose of alanine.

Dosage

3 to 6 grams of beta alanine per day is a recommended dosage if you weigh anywhere between 100lbs to 200 lbs. (1)

Benefits of alanine

Alanine plays a key role in the regulatory functioning of the body, and aids muscle growth, while it is also considered to be great for increasing overall metabolism in the body. Alanine is absorbed from the blood in the liver and is then converted, which allows it to work faster and supply energy where it is required, so that the body can continue performing at a higher level. This is why athletes prefer using alanine supplements to achieve their personal goals.

Alanine also works to improve the immune system, and also eliminates the danger of getting kidney stones. Alanine chemically neutralizes toxic compounds in the body, which prevent kidney stones in the body, while also ensuring a healthier immune system. The supplement has also been known to treat individuals who suffer from low blood sugar levels, since it aids in generating glucose in the body from other amino acids (2).

There have been numerous studies that have shown that alanine protects the prostate gland from irregular enlargements, which can cause severe pains and problems when urinating. People who suffer from such a condition can effectively get this problem taken care of by consuming alanine supplements. Many doctors have also used alanine to reduce the gland’s tissue, and have been used regularly to treat prostate cancer (3)

Alanine has also been successfully used by many doctors to treat illnesses, which is why it is often found in orthomolecular medication. It has the ability to influence blood sugar in a positive manner and has been used frequently to prevent prostate cancer in men. There are numerous studies that have shown that alanine also stimulates the immune system in a positive manner by reducing inflammation, and helping balance as well as stabilize the entire human body.

A study conducted in 2002 gave proof between the relationship of alanine and the secretion of insulin in the pancreas. It showed that if glucose was allowed to react with alanine, it will result in increased production and excretion of glucose, which will have a positive impact on diabetes. Once the metabolism of glucose has been improved, the overall symptoms can then be eliminated completely (4). This will then reduce complications that lead to secondary conditions from diabetes, and will greatly improve the quality of life of the patient.

A different study backed up the claims that alanine can have a positive impact on the human body when it comes to dealing with diabetes. The study showed that using alanine can result in increased physical fitness, particularly when it was combined with exercise. It also showed that the supplement can protect an individual against cardiovascular disease, and over 400 individuals were given alanine supplements and placebos to test the theory. The group that took alanine showed much better results when they were asked to exercise, and also showed lower fat readings in the blood (5).

Athletes generally require bigger supplement amino acids to ensure that they are able to build muscle mass quickly. Therefore they often consume protein powder in their training to ensure that the protein dissolves into the bloodstream rapidly and aids them in growing and repairing muscles. However, they can also start eating food with alanine, which will allow them to easily and safely grow muscles.

You should make sure that you don’t consume too much fat, when eating a protein rich diet and certain food can cause problems, such as:

• Dried white mushrooms
• Sunflower seeds
• Wheatgerms
• Soymeal
• Parsley

Eating these foods will improve physical fitness when they are consumed over longer time periods.

Alanine plays a major role in the different metabolic processes that take place in the body, and does a great job in regulating blood sugar levels. The supplement has been used regularly to treat against low sugar shocks, since it is able to increase insulin excretion from the pancreas, thereby enhancing glucose metabolism in the body. Alanine is also known to contain uncontrolled growth of the pancreatic tissue, which can lead to cancer, and is therefore used effectively to treat prostate cancer in the body as well.

Summary: Alanine supplements are well known to improve strength and muscle mass, which is why it is extremely popular amongst athletes who are looking for a considerable increase in their performance in a short period of time.

http://bodynutrition.org/alanine/

The benefits and side effects of calamus (acorus calamus)

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Acorus calamus is an herb that is used in ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine and is known to enhance the cognitive abilities of a human being. Some studies also suggest that the herb has ability to treat neuropathic pain.

The basic mechanism behind the plant revolves around the interaction of the GABAA receptors. In addition to this, β-asarone is also one of the ingredients that are responsible for the mechanism behind the plant.

Studies suggest that the ingredient can be removed from the plant but it will also take away the good properties away from the plant that will render it useless.

The plant is known as bach, calamus oil, golomi, sweet flag, ugragandha, vacha, and vekhanda but is different than acorus gramineus, which is known as Japanese or dwarf sweet flag.

Health benefits of acorus calamus

The acorus calamus has a number of health benefits that can be attributed to the makeup of the plant. It has a number of antibiotic, cephalic, circulatory, memory boosting, tranquilizing substance, anti-rheumatic, nervine, stimulant anti-spasmodic, circulatory, and memory boosting properties. (1)

The health benefits include:

• Cures psychological disorders like depression
• Gives relief from arthritis, gout, and rheumatism
• Hormone secretion in the body
• Prevents epileptic fits
• Prevents hysteric attacks
• Relieve from nervous spasms
• Stimulation of blood circulation
• Stimulation of metabolism
• Treatment of headache
• Treatment of insomnia

The medical uses consist of:

• Sore Throat
• Headache/Migraine
• Congestion
• Colds
• Ayurvedic
• Asthma
• Aphrodisiac
• Amenorrhea

The properties of the plant are:

• Uterine Tonic
• Sedative
• Psychedelic
• Nervine
• Emmenagogue
• Diuretic
• Carminative
• Bitter
• Aromatic
• Antirheumatic
• Antioxidant
• Antibacterial
• Analgesic
• Abortifacient

Acorus calamus has a number of properties that can deal with a number of physical and psychological disorders. However, it is advised that pregnant and breastfeeding women avoid it since it can cause hallucinations and convulsions.

Other than this, even low doses of β-asarone in rats caused organ damage and led to a higher prevalence of intestinal tumor. (2)

Calamus has been in use since ancient times. Earlier on, the plant was used for the benefits that it provided the lungs and the digestive system. It was seen that the plant cleared up the congestion and phlegm, while calming mind.

Other uses involved the treatment of tinnitus, insomnia, heart palpitations, chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, and amnesia.

Generally, the oil extracted from the root is used that has a very strong fragrance and tastes bitter. The active ingredients are extracted by boiling water. However, it is reported by several resources that the thick yellow paste is extremely toxic in nature.

In certain parts of Europe, calamus was used as a digestive aid because it helped with conditions like dyspepsia, acidity, and heartburn. The root of the plant was used to cure toothache. (3)

In traditional Chinese medicine, the plant was used to treat problems like dizziness, deafness, epilepsy, abdominal pain, dysentery, and diarrhea. (4)

Ayurvedic medicine used the plant for awareness, circulation to the brain, and to sharpen the memory.

The acorus calamus was taken as tea by people in ancient time. However, consuming the plant for internal use is not recommended, although it can be used externally for circulation and sore muscles.

Side effects of calamus

Prolonged use of acorus calamus has a number of side effects and subjects that took the herb for more than one year, even in low dosage, experienced problems like intestinal tumor and organ damage.

A carcinogenic substance in the plant that is known as β-asarone, has been found to be responsible for these issues.

One case study reported that the intake of the root of the plant with water caused a visit to the emergency room where the subject had yellow liquid like vomit, was in a diaphoric state, and had mild leucocytosis.

The subject was treated with promethazine. (5)

It is recommended that one avoid using calamus due to its toxic content and carcinogenic nature. It can be used externally but it’s best not to consume the plant.

Dosage instructions

Do make it a point to peruse the toxicology information that is available for this product before you take. (6)

Finding from some studies suggest that the herb is not suitable for human consumption because of the presence of β-asarone, an active ingredient that is a known carcinogen and is toxic in nature.

There are studies that show that the plant’s ethyl acetate extraction does not contain any β-asarone. The extraction can be safely taken within the range of 100 to 200 mg per kilogram of one’s body weight. Taking this into account an approximate human dose would consist of:

• 1,100-2,200 mg for a person with a total weight of approximately 68 kilograms.
• 1,500-2,900 mg for a person with a total weight of approximately 91 kilograms.
• 1,800-3,600 mg for a person with a total weight of approximately 113 kilograms.

It is important you know that β-asarone is a known pesticide that is famous for its toxic content. The Council of Europe Committee of Experts in Flavoring Substances evaluated the use of the substance in food flavoring and it was found that the quantity was limited to 0.5mg/kg for beverages with alcohol and 05mg/kg for food. The council determined that the plant was not safe for human consumption because of the nature of β-asarone. Furthermore, it was established by the council that there is no given intake level of the dose.

Summary: There are several sources that suggest that the recommended daily consumption of the drug is 0.115mg (115µg) a day. It has been seem that usage of β-asarone for more than two years results in very high in toxicity levels, which makes it unfit for consumption.

http://bodynutrition.org/calamus/

Agmatine benefits and side effects

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Agmatine is a well known neurotransmitter. It also works as a neuromodulator in certain processes in the body. Current research shows that agmatine has the potential to be used to treat drug addiction and reduce neuropathic pain. It can also protect the brain from the effect of toxins (1).

Agmatine was discovered over 100 years ago in 1910 by Kossel. Its mechanisms of action on different body functions though, have just been discovered. It is prepared through the removal of a carboxylic group from L-Arginine. It is naturally stored in the neurons and is therefore used in the nervous system whenever required (2).

The direct use of agmatine is not suitable for pain relief as it can elevate pain symptoms in people. The drug has an excellent synergy with most opioids and therefore, works best when combined with a painkiller like morphine (3).

Agmatine affects various processes in animal neurology. It is found to inhibit the enzyme that produces nitric oxide, therefore decreasing its levels. It can also stop receptors such as N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) and others (4).

Agmatine also has the ability to inhibit calcium channels in neurons and stop the production of specific serotonin receptors. Currently, more research is required in order to find further information on how agmatine acts within the body (5).

Agmatine’s metabolism is still not understood clearly with multiple pathways discussed to provide an explanation.

Agmatine may be handled by the Diamine Oxidase (DAO) enzyme, which is responsible for metabolizing histamine. DAO converts agmatine into 4-guanidinobutyrate (6).

This mechanism is suggested to dissolve around half of the plasma agmatine, because the inhibition of the DAO enzyme doubles the plasma concentration of the chemical.

This means that agmatine removes quickly from tissues that have high DAO levels, such as in the kidney, epithelial tissues and smooth muscle cells. They remain for a long period in the brain, liver and skeletal tissues due to the naturally lower levels of DAO (7).

10% of the agmatine can also convert into polyamines such as putrescine through different mechanisms. One mechanism produces urea as a byproduct while the other produces ammonia during the indirect conversion (8).

The current research on animals suggests that agmatine has a wide potential for use as a supplement. Some studies on humans have now appeared on the topic, but all of these employ the use of agmatine injections. It needs to be thoroughly tested for ingestion first before being termed suitable for supplement use.

Due to lack of human testing, it is not possible to discuss the toxic nature of agmatine in finer detail. It is therefore best to remain with the current dose of 2670 mg which was used in human experiments (9).

Agmatine benefits

Some studies show that agmatine does not have a significant impact in providing long term pain relief. This can be a result of the short half life of agmatine in some parts of the body.

Agmatine is not effective against heat pain, and has a weak activity against visceral pain. Agmatine however, can provide pain relief in the case of neuropathic and inflammatory pain (10).

Agmatine also showed signification pain relief in a double blind study using patients that have lumbosacral spine degenerative pathologies. More research is needed in this case, because the relief continued even after discontinuing agmatine sulfate (11).

Agmatine is also known to be useful when withdrawing from alcohol. It is suggested that it helps alcohol withdrawal through a mechanism of NMDA antagonism (12).

Research shows that agmatine is very effective in protecting the body against strokes as the inhibition of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the body reduces the amount of toxic nitric oxide levels (13).

Agmatine can also reduce edema which is often associated with the occurrence of a stroke. Edema refers to the condition in which fluid is lost from the arteries into the capillaries and surrounding tissues (14).

Agmatine can increase the activity of NF-kB which in turn increases the concentration of survivin inhibitor. This can save cells from hypoxia and works in contrast to apoptosis or programmed death of the cells (15).

The enzyme that produces agmatine in the body increases during stressful times. This means that it is the natural response of the body to protect it from anxiety. Agmatine increases the activity of neurons in the areas of the brain associated with the handling of stress, anxiety and depression.

Agmatine side effects

There are no general studies on the use of agmatine in humans that can be used to warrant its side effects.

Although research shows that agmatine can protect cells from acidity in the stomach, it is known to increase the chances of developing an ulcer in patients suffering from alcohol withdrawal symptoms (16).

Agmatine can increase the appetite of the person using the drug. This can be helpful for people looking to gain weight but not beneficial for obese people.

The main problem with agmatine is that sufficient research has not been carried out yet, which decreases the potential for widespread use as a health supplement.

Agmatine causes vasodilatation, therefore reducing blood pressure. It should not be used by people who are being treated for hypotension or low blood pressure (17).

Dosage

There is only a single study that describes the human dosage of agmatine for the treatment of neuropathic pain as employed for daily doses of the people taking part in the experiment. The study used around 1300 to 2670 mgs of agmatine during the research phase.

The current oral dosage value is based on an experiment on rats, which gives an approximation of using 2-6.4 mg/Kg of body weight for humans (18).

One thing to remember though is that agmatine does not absorb well when taken with proteins. This leaves room for research to decide if the oral supplementation of agmatine is possible and carries the same benefits as its delivery through injection.

Summary: Agmatine has great potential for use in the treatment of several adverse health conditions, such as hypertension, anxiety, stress, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It can also be a great pain reliever, especially when used with opioids. You should always take care when taking agmatine supplements as its effects are yet to be clearly understood by research.

http://bodynutrition.org/agmatine/

The benefits and side effects of aniracetam

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Aniracetam is one of several substances of the nootropic drug family and it is used to boost brain function and improve several cognitive processes. Developed around the 1970’s as a nootropic supplement in Belgium, it has grown in popularity as the demand for such drugs has increased.

Aniracetam is a drug belonging to a class of drugs known as nootropics. There are other drugs, such as piracetam, in the category as well. However, Aniracetam is the most potent and therefore has remained the most popular throughout the years.

Widely renowned as one of the most effective brain boosting drugs, the usage of Aniracetam is now fairly widespread, with a comparatively smaller number of side effects. It also contains very low toxicity levels, making it tolerable for almost all users.

As mentioned earlier, Aniracetam is one of a class of drugs that improves brain function, sharpens cognitive skills and generally improves all areas of brain activity.

Mental performance is increased with an adequate dosage of the drug, with significant improvements in a wide variety of cognitive functions such as mental endurance, memorization and memory function, concentration, focus and visual perception.

Along with the improvements in mental alertness, Aniracetam also results in an increase in creativity that comes with improved mental function. The mood enhancement properties of Aniracetam are less known, although they do exist.

Aniracetam, as a drug and supplement, is and has been used to improve a wide variety of brain-related functions. In addition to that, Aniracetam has also been used sometimes to address several issues such as anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, motion sickness, sleep disorders as well as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Its usage to improve brain function and cognition is widely documented. It is known to positively affect parts of the mind related to memory and thought, while improving judgment capabilities.

The foremost benefits of using Aniracetam are related to mental functioning. However, it may benefit users suffering from other issues as well.

Benefits of Aniracetam

The most common benefits of Aniracetam are what have made it such a popular drug among the vast majority of users. It has been a relatively inexpensive and comparatively safer alternative to some of the other alternative brain boosting medications out there. Although its effects last for a relatively short period of time within the body, with continued usage, it has been proven to gradually improve brain functioning for the long run as well.

The most major benefits of Aniracetam are as follows:

Improvements in Memory: This is by far one of the most famous benefits of using Aniracetam. There have been various studies related to this specific aspect of the drug, all proving that Aniracetam not only makes an improvement on short-term memory but also increases long-term memory. Along with the improvements in memory, Aniracetam has also been proven to significantly improve recall, which is an active part of the human memory function. Recall speed is also improved by regular usage of this drug. (1, 3)

Improvements in cognitive function and performance: Aniracetam is widely popular for its improvements to healthy cognitive functioning. It has also shown a potential for improving conditions in people with any sort of cognitive impairment. (2)

An increase in awareness and attention: Aniracetam can cause a significant increase in attention which is particularly useful in treating mild ADHD and other attention disorders. The user is gradually more aware of their surroundings which in turn, broadens their attention span.

Reduces anxiety and improves mood: Another very positive benefit of the drug is its anti-depressant and mood enhancement quality. This in turn, makes for a relaxed state of mind and with continued usage, reduces the chances of anxiety or stress in the future. It has also been known to positively affect some of the most common symptoms of depression.

Improved focus: This is caused from the attention improving qualities of the drug. With greater attention, comes a heightened focus, which can significantly ease any task at hand that requires mental focus.

May improve sleep patterns: Although there are few reports of Aniracetam improving sleep patterns in users, there are indications that its continued use may address this issue as well. This is in direct relation to the anti-depressant qualities of the drugs, which help to calm the user’s mind and alleviate stress.

Side effects of Aniracetam

Although the side effects of Aniracetam are very few, to the point of being almost nonexistent, there have been some reports of Aniracetam adversely affecting some users. Even in the cases where Aniracetam has shown side effects, the discomforts have been fairly mild and not enough to discredit the usage of the drug to any significant degree. (4)

The most commonly reported side effects of the drug are as follows:

It may cause headaches: Aniracetam can cause headaches, because of the direct relation to the brain, and the neural pathways. However, this has only been reported in cases when the dosage consumed was significantly higher than recommended.

Increased nervousness and anxiety: Similar to the aforementioned side effect, Aniracetam’s direct relation to brain functioning might cause an increase in nervous energy and anxiety. Although the drug is known to reduce the latter, a higher than recommended dosage can cause a slight increase in anxiety and jitters.

Causes fatigue, nausea and general distress in some cases:  Aniracetam could also cause fatigue in some individuals as well as nausea and a generally distressed feeling, unless taken in appropriate doses.

Dosage

The ideal dosage for Aniracetam has been deemed at 1000-1500mg, depending on individual needs, daily. Smaller doses of 400mg have also been found to be effective however the recommended dosage is 1000-1500mg, broken down into 2 doses of 500-750mg per day. Always consult with your doctor before consumption of supplements like Aniracetam.

Summary: Aniracetam is a highly effective brain stimulant with a vast array of positive effects on brain functioning and almost zero side effects. It helps in holistic and collective thinking by increasing activity and blood flow in certain areas in the brain. It is a powerful AMPA modulator and has been studied for combating against depression and other CNS disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.

http://bodynutrition.org/aniracetam/

The benefits and side effects of DNP (2,4-Dinitrophenol)

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The 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) is a highly toxic yet highly effective solution for weight loss. The primary function of DNP is to increase heat production in the body cells to make them less efficient with energy.

Although DNP has yielded proven results when it comes to weight loss, even small overdoses have been reported to result in death.

Just like our body has various organs designed to perform specialized functions, each of our cells have sub-cellular organelles which function on the same basic principle. One of these organelles is the mitochondrion.

One of the most important sub-cellular organelles, the mitochondria are responsible for producing energy. They do that by producing a co-enzyme known as Adenosine Tri-Phosphate (ATP). You can imagine ATP as the unit of currency when it comes to the production and transfer of energy at the molecular level.

DNP functions by entering the body cells and ceasing the production of ATP in the mitochondria. When cells produce less ATP, the body increases the metabolism to meet its daily energy requirement. A higher metabolic rate, then, leads to weight loss.

But the heat production function of Dinitrophenol is highly dangerous. This is why DNP is one of the very few chemical compounds which are causatively linked to death. (1) Excessive heat production in the body, caused by an overdose of Dinitrophenol, can cause toxicity. DNP may also cause irregular heart rate, irregular breathing, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Dinitrophenol was originally used as a key ingredient in explosives, pesticides, and dyes.

The substance began gaining popularity in the 1930s when scientific studies showed that a daily dosage of around 300-400 mg for 2 weeks could result in a 36-95 percent increase in the metabolic rate of an individual. (2)

The popularity of DNP increased as it was discovered that it led to weight loss. It then became a highly sought-after treatment for obesity. And as a remedy, it was an effective one. Some reports even suggested that it led to the loss of 1.5 kg per week.

However, certain side effects were discovered. In 1938, DNP was declared unfit for human consumption according to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938. It was taken off the market soon after, due to the side effects. These included liver failure, cataracts, and death.

But its use for weight loss purposes was not eliminated. In 1981, a physician produced a product containing Dinitrophenol. It was named Mitcal. The second resurgence of DNP died out as the use of Mitcal resulted in one reported death and many other side effects.

In recent years, it has resurfaced on the internet and ill-advised use associated with illegal purchases is the potential contributing factor in the death of some users. It’s still available illegally on some websites and is used by body builders for rapid weight loss purposes. This results in various reported side effects. The use of DNP is prohibited by the FDA.

The health benefits of Dinitrophenol

Despite the potentially disastrous consequences resulting from the use of Dinitrophenol, it is surprisingly effective when it comes to weight loss. This effectiveness is the one of the reasons why it is still in use.

There are reported cases testifying the value of Dinitrophenol in curing obesity and providing therapeutic value in any other condition which can be solved through an increased metabolic rate.

Many conventional means of rapid weight loss carry significant risk of damage to some of the key organs. This is not the case with DNP. The primary advantage of the use of Dinitrophenol is that it can lead to an increase in metabolism to very high levels without any kind of damage to the vital organs or biological functions.

Granted, the risk of other forms of damage is still great. But serious harm only occurs as a result of the consumption of the drug in doses much higher than recommended. Higher doses may cause over-simulation of the metabolic process.

However, when the dosage is kept low and within the recommended limits, the metabolism can increase by a factor of 50 percent or even more, without the manifestation of any kind of adverse symptoms or toxicity. Those looking for solutions for obesity can benefit from these increased metabolism rates to help in weight loss.

All of the aforementioned claims are scientifically backed and are based on the controlled study of 113 cases of obesity treatment through the use of DNP under strictly observed conditions. (3)

Potential side effects of Dinitrophenol

The biggest potential side effect of the use of DNP is death. And there are numerous scientific research reports that identify a causative link between the use of Dinitrophenol and death. (4, 5, 6)

In some cases, patients develop a hyper-metabolic state. The heat generation function of Dinitrophenol can induce fever and cause respiratory failure which can cause death in a few hours. Other causes of death associated with the use of Dinitrophenol include irregular heartbeat combined with excessive sweating and irregular breathing.

Dosage

The exact dosage which causes death is not currently known. Although some estimates suggest that the lethal dosage range is around 2,500 mg or higher, there has been at least one reported case of a 46-year-old woman who died as a result of DNP consumption which was within the recommended 300 mg dosage range. (7)

There have been more than 60 reported cases of deaths resulting from the use of Dinitrophenol. Out of these, 12 cases occurred within the last decade alone. Half of these consumers were body builders and two were deliberate suicides. (8)

Due to the dangerous nature of the substance and devastating potential side effects, it is better not to take the risk despite the fact that there are reported benefits. It is a banned substance and any purchase or trade in it is highly illegal. Instead of DNP, you can turn to numerous safer alternatives for weight loss.

Summary: Dinitrophenol is a highly dangerous, albeit effective, substance. It is banned due to its potential side effects which include death. Although it can lead to rapid weight loss by increasing metabolism, safer alternatives are available.

http://bodynutrition.org/dnp/

The benefits and side effects of mugwort (artemisia iwayomogi)

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Mugwort is an herb that is known for its medicinal benefits and is also known as artemisia iwayomogi. The herb is typically found in Asia, Northern Europe and North America. It is mostly taken as a tonic, to increase energy levels in the body and to aid fat loss. (1)

Mugwort is also taken by women who experience irregular periods and other issues related to the menstrual cycle.

The oil made from the extract of this herb can also be used to prevent early or untimely menopause. When it is ingested, it can cure a number of digestive disorders and help fight infections by preventing infections in the stomach.

A lotion made from the herb can be applied directly to the skin to relieve itchiness that can occur in burn scars.

Mugwort is also used as a dietary supplement as well as a homeopathic drug since it is safe to consume.

This is a detailed review of mugwort and its health benefits.

Health benefits of mugwort

There have been a number of studies done on this herb that have revealed that it has a number of health benefits.

It contains a number of beneficial components such as triterpenes, flavonoids and coumarin derivatives among others. (2), (3)

All of these offer digestive and relaxing properties to anyone who consumes the herb.

It can be taken with tea and tinctures and can also be mixed with other sweet herbs to enhance its effect.

Mugwort can be used to stimulate suppressed or irregular periods.

The herb is also known to ease menstrual cramps and stimulate the uterus to keep it functioning properly.

However, it can also cause miscarriages so pregnant women are not advised to take it.

On the other hand, mugwort is also considered a safer alternative for hormone replacement therapy for women. (4)

It is also considered a safer drug for abortions than traditional surgical methods but consuming it should not be considered without a doctor’s advice. (5)

Besides aiding menstruation, mugwort also has sedative properties, which makes it beneficial for those suffering from insomnia.

In fact, due to its hallucinogenic properties, it is commonly called a ‘dream herb.’

The herb is commonly used in sleep pillows to improve lucid dreaming.

Mugwort can also soothe the mind and keep stress at bay due to its sedative properties.

The properties of this herb are twofold. One the one hand, it soothes the mind and induces sleep and on the other, it can also stimulate the mind and make it more active.

Mugwort can also ease digestion, stomach cramps, acidity and indigestion. In fact, it can be used in place of Pepto-Bismol for the same effects.

The herb can also be applied to the skin to treat itchiness caused due to an injury or a burn.

It can also be used to treat parasitic infections and can effectively protect the body against ringworm, threadworm, and other parasites.

The roots of the mugwort plant can also be used with a number of other herbs to treat a number of conditions.

These include anxiety, depression, insomnia, hypochondira, mental fatigue and other ailments that can be eased with its sedative properties.

Since it is a relaxant and a stimulant at the same time, consuming mugwort does not cause dizziness or light headedness.

Under normal conditions, the herb stimulates the mind to keep the consumer active and alert.

Apart from the above-mentioned benefits, the herb can also be used to treat asthma, fever, kidney issues, liver issues, high blood sugar, gout etc. (6)

The herb can be taken over a longer term in small doses to enhance appetite, aid digestion, detoxify the liver and to aid in the absorption of nutrients as well.

What most people are unaware of is that it is often used as an alternative for tobacco for those who  wish to quit smoking.

Dosage

Although there is no established and proven dosage for mugwort, it can be measured according to cups of tea it is added in.

Some herbalists recommend 2 cups of tea infused with this herb for 5 to 10 minutes should be a daily dose.

In supplement form, no more than one or two capsules should be taken with water on a daily basis and the manufacturer’s instructions should not be ignored.

According to some studies, the estimated dose should be (7):

• Approximately 2000 mg for a person weighing 68 kilos
• Approximately 3000 mg for a person weighing 90 kilos
• Approximately 3500 mg for a person weighing 113 kilos

Side effects of mugwort

Since the preparation instructions for the herb and the drug have not be clearly defined, lactating and pregnant women are not advised its use. It can actually pass from mother to child from the milk that is breastfed to the infant.

The herb contains a chemical component called thujone which is responsible for many of its medicinal properties. (8) However, in large doses, this chemical can be toxic and it can cause miscarriages.

People who are allergic to pollen should not use it either.

In other words, this herb should not be used without explicit instructions from an experienced and trained physician.

It is also an effective herbal treatment to eliminate opium addiction in addicts.

Since it has a high toxicity level, mugwort should never be taken in high doses.

Continued consumption after a prescribed period is also not advisable and can cause serious side effects.

As a weight loss supplement, it should be taken in small doses and only at the recommendation of a trained and experienced doctor. Children should not be given mugwort unless absolutely necessary. Even if it is, it should be administered in very mild doses to prevent complications.

Summary: The efficacy of mugwort for energy levels and fat loss cannot be denied. However, it should be taken in very small doses since it has a high toxicity level and pregnant/lactating women should avoid it at all costs.

http://bodynutrition.org/mugwort/

The benefits and side effects of dill (anethum graveolens)

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Dill (anethum graveolens) is a plant of the celery family whose fruits are traditionally used for the treatment of intestine-related and female diseases.

This plant grows annually in rich and well- drained soil in full sunlight. Due to the strong aroma of its leaves, dill is used to flavor a number of dishes such as soup, pickles, and fish dishes. The dried leaves are used as herb and the seeds of the plant are used as spice and to extract essential oil.

Apart from its edible usage, anethum graveolens is used in medicinal purposes extensively, but the medical component of the plant is derived from the fruits of the plant, which are not edible.

Here is a complete guide about anethum graveolens and its various medicinal uses.

Both the leaves and the flowers of dill are filled with nutrients and vital medicinal compounds. Fresh leaves of anethum graveolens contain a myriad of vitamins such as Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B9, B12 and Vitamin C. In addition to this, it is also a good resource of fiber, calcium, potassium, iron, sodium, manganese, and copper.

Anethum graveolens is unique as it also contains two major groups of healing compounds:

• Monoterpenes: These have anti-bacterial uses and include limonene and carvone (1). They produce anti-carcinogenic effects in the body.
• Flavonoids: This is the largest group of nutrients up to date and they have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Moreover, they help regulate menstrual cycles. They include vicenin and kaempferol.

Both the healing compounds are the causes of great health benefits due to their anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties.

Recommended dosage

An appropriate dosage of anethum graveolens is dependent on a number of factors (2). Age, health and other such factors contribute to the difference in dosages for each group.

Benefits of anethum graveolens

Inflammation can be caused in many ways, such as injury or infection. The swelling and pain of the inflammation causes extreme distress to a patient. Research has shown that the usage of the oil of anethum graveolens results in the reduction of inflammation (1).

Vitamin C is a major component of the anethum graveolens. A 100 gm of dill includes 142% of Vitamin C, and this huge amount helps strengthen the bones and teeth and improve their overall health.

There is high potential in this herb to control the corticosteroid-induced diabetes. Research has shown that administering dill leaf extract reduced the concentrations of serum glucose and insulin, which can be helpful to combat this disease.

Chewing the seeds of anethum graveolens is the traditional alternative to chewing breath mints or gum. The difference is that there are no side effects to chewing dill seeds and it plays no part in destroying teeth, since it has properties of improving bone health.

The chemical compound monotrepenes that is present in anethum graveolens is an anti-carcinogenic compound. This compound secretes the enzyme glutathione-S-transferase, which successfully neutralizes the carcinogens like cyano-deratives, benzo-deratives and free radicals.

There are certain vitamins and flavonoids present in this herb that help speed up the production of hormones in the body and, as a result, produces a calming effect that fights insomnia and gives you a relaxing sleep.

Dill is known for its properties of anti-inflammation. This is why it is used for relieving the pain of diseases such as arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Ingesting the extracts of anethum graveolens triggers the secretion of the chemical progesterone, which is the chemical that helps remedy fertility related problems and regulates menstrual cycles.

In Indian traditional medicine, hiccups and headaches were treated by drinking tea made out of dill leaves, or drinking the dill pickle juice.

The essential oils of dill include flavonoids and monoterpenes which have anti-congestive and anti-histaminic properties. Using the dill essential oil will clear the congestion that occurs due to coughs, allergies or histamine.

The basic cause of dysentery is fungal infections. The essential oils extracted from the roots of anethum graveolens are disinfectant in nature, so they are excellent for hampering the growth of fungal infections.

There are various other benefits of using dill, such as easing heartburn, remedying cold and flu, helping in stomach ailments, protecting from free radicals, acting as a relaxant and increasing urination to wash away the toxins from the body.

Side Effects of anethum graveolens

Anethum graveolens is safe for internal use, but when applied externally, it may cause irritation and photosensitivity. This can put you at a greater risk for skin cancer. If you do use the dill extract and externally, wear sun block to protect yourself (2).

There have been a number of reports of allergies to anethum graveolens, and it seems that there is a cross reactivity between anethum graveolens and plants in the carrot family such as coriander, fennel, aniseed, caraway, asafetida and celery. If you happen to be allergic to any one of the aforementioned substances, you might be sensitive to anethum graveolens as well as its extracts, and it is advised that you do not use the Dill supplements.

If you have diabetes, you need to watch out for your blood sugar, as anethum graveolens tends to lower the blood sugar of diabetic patients.

Using dill during pregnancy should be avoided as it can lead to miscarriages.

It is important to regulate your blood sugar when you have a scheduled surgery. Dill has the effect of lowering the level of blood sugar, so it is advised that you stop taking the dill supplements at least a week before your surgery.

anethum graveolens is found in various forms. The leaves are easily available as spices, the seeds and the extract of the plant can be found in the market as well.

Summary: Dill has a number of benefits and incorporating it into a regular diet is essential to keep healthy. It helps fight various diseases such as cold, arthritis, dysentery and diarrhea. Especially for females, dill is a great natural source of regulating menstrual cycles.

http://bodynutrition.org/dill/