Hordenine Benefits: Top 3 Effects of the Supplement Derived from Bitter Orange

Benefits of Hordenine are not very well researched at this point. It is definitely an underrated supplement in terms of how little it is talked about and the clear lack of scientific research into its effects in humans. Hordenine was originally derived from the Bitter Orange plant. Today, Hordenine supplements can be purchased online to improve energy and focus, and to boost mood. Hordenine also has a synergistic relationship with Phenylethylamine (PEA). In this article, we explore the top 3 benefits of Hordenine that have been discovered by researchers today. Hordenine HCl benefits may even include Hordenine euphoria! [caption id=""attachment_2254"" align=""alignright"" width=""847""] Hordenine is known to improve mood and boost energy![/caption]

1.   Top Hordenine Benefits: Increased Mood and Brain Protection

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a class of compounds that prevent the activity of the MAO enzymes. MAO enzymes are divided into two subclasses: MAO-As and MAO-Bs. The purpose of MAO enzymes is to degrade excess serotonin, dopamine, and phenylethylamine (PEA) in your brain. [1] MAOIs have been studied extensively for their effects on Parkinson’s Disease as well as in research for mood. However, MAOI compounds are rarely prescribed in modern-day psychiatry due to their well-known potential to cause adverse effects. [2] Although synthetic MAOIs have been largely replaced in psychiatry, there is still solid evidence pointing to their ability to improve mood. It is theorized that MAOIs are able to increase the levels of dopamine in your brain, resulting in an increased mood.[3]   Today, synthetic MAOIs are used to address symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. Not only this, but MAO-B inhibitors are able to help protect your brain. These effects are known as neuroprotective effects and are especially important when your brain is put under stressful conditions. [4] Scientists have shown that Hordenine may have the potential to act as a potent mood-booster and neuroprotector. This is considered to be one of the top Hordenine benefits. It is a powerful MAO substrate, specifically for the MAO-B subtypes. A 1989 study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology noted that Hordenine is deaminated in the liver, specifically by MAO-B subtypes. [5]  

2.     Increased focus and energy

Norepinephrine is a vital component of the flight-or-fight response. It is referred to as a ‘stress hormone’ because it is released when your body is under acute stress. It specifically affects parts of the brain where attention and response actions are controlled. Norepinephrine is known to produce a number of effects on your body, including: [caption id=""attachment_2257"" align=""alignright"" width=""300""] Norepinephrine increases your heart rate![/caption]

• Produces flight-or-flight response
• Increases heart rate
• Triggers the release of glucose from energy stores
• Increases blood flow to muscles
• Suppresses neuroinflammation [6]

Hordenine has the potential to improve focus and energy through its indirect effects on the adrenergic system. Studies have indicated that Hordenine has the ability to boost norepinephrine levels by preventing the breakdown of this focusing neurotransmitter.   Furthermore, studies have shown that Hordenine produces effects that are similar to those seen when norepinephrine levels are increased:

• Increases heart rate
• Increases blood pressure
• Improves blood flow
• Reduces gut movements [7]

Although there is a distinct lack of research into the effects of Hordenine on humans, animal and cellular in vitro studies have shown that it may have the potential to improve focus and attention through its effects on norepinephrine.  

3.    Synergy with Phenylethylamine

Phenylethylamine (PEA) is another great energizing supplement. It is a trace monoamine substance found in all animals and plant species. PEA acts as a powerful release of catecholamines – epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. As a result, PEA causes an intense stimulating feeling along with improved focus and attention, and a potent mood boost. [8] [caption id=""attachment_702"" align=""alignright"" width=""300""] Liftmode Hordenine: 98%+ purity, goes well with PEA[/caption] Phenylethylamine is thought to be the compound behind the ‘runner’s high’ as it is released after high-intensity exercise. It is also found in high quantities in chocolate and red wine. The characteristics of the ‘runner’s high’ include feelings of euphoria and improved focus. [9] Some people who take Phenylethylamine complain that the effects are short-lived. Phenylethylamine has a very short half-life, and the effects generally do not last much longer than around 1-2 hours. [10]   Like Hordenine, Phenylethylamine is also degraded by the MAO-B enzyme in your liver. This means that the two substances - if taken together - ‘compete’ at the MAO-B binding sites. The result is that the effects of both substances are both exacerbated and prolonged. This is why there is thought to be a synergistic relationship between PEA and Hordenine, and also why people online are searching for the ‘Hordenine high’. [11] *Please note: If you are taking a PEA and Hordenine stack, it is important to use lower dosages of both the supplements. Begin by using around half the usual dosage for both supplements. The effects are longer lasting when combining the two, and it is better to use a lower dosage to avoid potential adverse effects.  

Safety Ratings and How to Take

WebMD lists Hordenine as “Possibly Unsafe” when taken by mouth. This is due to its potential for increased heart rate and blood pressure at high doses. Hordenine may work in a similar way to many stimulants, causing increased heart rate. This can be unsafe for people with preexisting heart disease or cardiovascular issues. Hordenine might increase the risk of developing kidney stones and may interfere with medication given during surgery. [12] There is not enough reliable information to evaluate the safety of Hordenine for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use Hordenine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The selective deamination by MAO-B enzymes instead of MAO-A subtypes makes Hordenine relatively safe. Numerous studies have shown that MAO-B inhibitors are far safer than MAO-A inhibitors, by preventing the so-called “cheese effect”. [13]   Hordenine has also been shown to interact with morphine on drug tests. It is possible that Hordenine supplements could produce a false-positive for opioids. [14] While there is a clear lack of research into the human dosages for Hordenine, various sources suggest that the recommended Hordenine dosage is around 30 – 50mg, two to three times daily. This powerful supplement need not be taken at any higher dosage. [caption id=""attachment_2258"" align=""alignright"" width=""847""] Hordenine is known to produce a powerful energy boost![/caption]

Conclusion: Hordenine Benefits and Review

In conclusion, Hordenine is a powerful compound with many great benefits. It has the potential to improve mood and boost focus and attention. Furthermore, Hordenine can be used for its neuroprotective effects and as a synergist to go with Phenylethylamine (PEA). Hordenine’s effects do not generally last very long. Taking Hordenine with PEA may lengthen the effects of both these supplements, but you should be careful to use lower dosages when starting on a Hordenine with PEA stack. There is still a lack of data on the effects of Hordenine supplements in humans. Hordenine is rated possible unsafe due to its effects on heart rate and blood pressure. Use this supplement responsibly. Not for use by people under the age of 18 years. Do not take Hordenine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.          

References:

[1] JC Shih et al., “Role of MAO A and B in neurotransmitter metabolism and behavior”, Pol J Pharmacol. 1999 Jan-Feb;51(1):25-9.ggest that the recommended dosagdosage. werful supplement  ges for Hordenine, various sources suggest that the recommended dosag [2] JG. Fiedorowicz, KL. Swartz, “The Role of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors in Current Psychiatric Practice”, J Psychiatr Pract. 2004 Jul; 10(4): 239–248. [3] Z Fisar et al., “Inhibition of monoamine oxidase activity by antidepressants and mood stabilizers”, Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2010;31(5):645-56. [4] P Kong et al., “Neuroprotection of MAO-B inhibitor and dopamine agonist in Parkinson disease”, Int J Clin Exp Med. 2015; 8(1): 431–439. [5] CJ Barwell et al., “Deamination of hordenine by monoamine oxidase and its action on vasa deferentia of the rat”, J Pharm Pharmacol. 1989 Jun;41(6):421-3. [6] “Norepinephrine”, online notes, Department of Computational and Applied Mathematics, Rice Univeristy, accessed May 23, 2017 [7] HJ Hapke, W Strathmann, “[Pharmacological effects of hordenine]”, Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr. 1995 Jun;102(6):228-32. [8] M Irsfeld et al., “β-phenylethylamine, a small molecule with a large impact”, Webmedcentral. 2013 Sep 30; 4(9): 4409. [9] H Boecker et al., “The runner's high: opioidergic mechanisms in the human brain”, Cereb Cortex. 2008 Nov;18(11):2523-31. [10] “Phenylethylamine”, Examine.com, accessed May 23, 2017 [11] OE Ukponmwan et al., “MAO-B inhibitor deprenyl and beta-phenylethylamine potentiate [D-ALA2]-Met-enkephalinamide-induced seizures”, Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 1983 Feb;322(1):38-41. [12] “Hordenine”, WebMD.com, accessed May 23, 2017 [13] Finberg JP, Gillman K. “Selective inhibitors of monoamine oxidase type B and the ""cheese effect""”, Int Rev Neurobiol. 2011;100:169-90 [14] AK Singh et al., “Screening and confirmation of drugs in urine: interference of hordenine with the immunoassays and thin layer chromatography methods”, Forensic Sci Int. 1992 Apr;54(1):9-22.