Recently I introduced Methylene Blue into my regimen to give it a fair shot at either impressing or disappointing me, due to the recent re-hype I’ve been hearing.
It was hot for a minute, lost steam, then started sparking rave reviews again of late. So being the self experiment Ive commissioned ever since i was 15 years old, i said to me- let’s give this crazy dye a chance for revival in my health medicine cabinet.
The results were insane in regards to performance. I added 15-20% to my major lifts and my output has been the same. Like a jet fuel cocktail for PR Day.
I’ve had a few others ask more about it so decided to provide a quick chat gtp review (don’t be a hater!-) I’m busy!
For those interested Here it is. Benefits and cautions: Methylene Blue
Methylene blue (MB) is a synthetic compound with a long history in medicine and science. Originally developed as a dye, it’s now gaining attention for a wide variety of health-related uses—from neuroprotection to mitochondrial support and even nootropic potential. However, it’s not without risks. Here’s a comprehensive deep dive into methylene blue’s benefits and cautions, including the science behind it.
🧠
Potential Benefits of Methylene Blue
1.
Mitochondrial Function and Energy Support
- Mechanism: MB acts as an electron cycler in the electron transport chain, bypassing damaged segments and improving cellular respiration.
- Potential Benefits: May enhance energy production, especially in cells under oxidative stress (e.g., neurons).
- Uses: Fatigue, brain fog, neurodegenerative conditions.
2.
Cognitive Enhancement and Nootropic Use
- Research: Low-dose MB has shown improvements in memory retention, learning, and increased cerebral blood flow in animal models and some human studies.
- Mechanism: Enhances mitochondrial efficiency and has antioxidant properties that protect neurons.
- Typical Use: Doses under 1mg/kg in nootropic contexts.
3.
Neuroprotective Effects
- Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s: MB inhibits tau protein aggregation (a hallmark of Alzheimer’s) and supports dopamine neurons, which may be beneficial in Parkinson’s.
- Stroke and TBI: May reduce infarct size and preserve brain function by improving mitochondrial metabolism during ischemic events.
4.
Anti-Microbial and Anti-Viral Effects
- Broad-spectrum action: Originally used to treat malaria; also effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Use in blood safety: Still used to sterilize blood products against pathogens.
- Viruses: Shown to inactivate some viruses when combined with light (photodynamic therapy).
5.
Mood and Depression
- MAO Inhibition: MB at low doses acts as a weak monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which can increase serotonin and dopamine levels.
- Clinical Potential: Early studies suggest it could help with treatment-resistant depression.
6.
Urinary and Blood Disorders
- Methemoglobinemia Treatment: MB converts methemoglobin back to hemoglobin, restoring its oxygen-carrying capacity.
- Urinary Tract: Has been used as a urinary antiseptic and bladder analgesic.
⚠️
Cautions, Side Effects, and Interactions
1.
Serotonin Syndrome
- High Risk with SSRIs or SNRIs: MB’s MAOI properties can lead to dangerous serotonin accumulation.
- Avoid Combining With: SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, MDMA, or other serotonergic agents.
2.
Dose-Dependent Toxicity
- Low Doses (e.g., <1 mg/kg): Generally safe in healthy individuals.
- High Doses (>2 mg/kg): Can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion, hemolysis (especially in G6PD deficiency), or neurotoxicity.
- Overdose: May turn urine blue, cause chest pain, dizziness, or hemolytic anemia.
3.
Photosensitivity
- UV and Blue Light: MB can increase sensitivity to sunlight and other light sources, especially when used topically or intravenously.
4.
G6PD Deficiency Warning
- Hemolytic Anemia Risk: Individuals with G6PD deficiency should avoid MB due to risk of red blood cell destruction.
5.
Staining
- MB stains bodily fluids (urine, saliva, feces) blue or greenish.
- It can stain teeth, clothing, and skin—important for topical or oral use.
6.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Not advised: Limited data, but animal studies suggest developmental toxicity; avoid unless under strict medical supervision.
🔬
Forms and Dosage Guidelines
Form
Common Use
Notes
Oral Capsules
Nootropic, mitochondrial support
Ensure it’s USP-grade or pharmaceutical purity
Intravenous
Medical use (e.g., methemoglobinemia)
Only under medical supervision
Sublingual
Faster absorption
May stain mouth and teeth
Topical
Photodynamic therapy, wounds
Can stain skin blue
Low Dose Nootropic Range:
👉 0.5–1 mg/kg/day (generally regarded as safe)
Therapeutic Dose (Medical):
👉 1–2 mg/kg IV for methemoglobinemia (doctor administered)
🔬
Research Highlights
- Neuroimaging Studies: fMRI shows increased brain activity and blood flow with MB.
- Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials: Mixed results—some early promise, but larger trials have been inconclusive.
- Longevity Research: MB reduces oxidative damage and extends lifespan in C. elegans and other animal models.
✅
Best Practices
- Start with very low doses and cycle (e.g., 5 days on, 2 off).
- Ensure pharmaceutical grade MB, free from heavy metals or contaminants (not aquarium-grade).
- Combine with antioxidants like Vitamin C if you’re prone to oxidative stress.
- Avoid use with psychiatric meds, especially SSRIs or MAOIs.
🧾 Summary Table
Benefit
Evidence
Notes
Mitochondrial Support
✅ Strong (animal/human)
Bypasses damaged ETC components
Cognitive Function
✅ Moderate
Low-dose MB shows promise
Depression/Mood
⚠️ Mixed
Watch out for drug interactions
Neurodegeneration
✅ Promising
Inhibits tau, protects neurons
Antimicrobial
✅ Strong
Even used in blood sterilization
Methemoglobinemia
✅ FDA Approved
Gold-standard treatment
If you’re considering methylene blue for a specific health goal (e.g. energy, memory, post-viral fatigue, etc.), we now carry it at Grounded Strength in both capsule and sublingual form.
I can help customize the research or provide protocols depending on your needs. Would you like a tailored dosing or supplement plan based on your goals? Just hit me with up, and we’ll can discuss.