Improving cognitive function has become a focus point for many people trying to reach their full potential, as well as for those who are aging by trying to maintain the mental prowess they have always had. Methylene blue is a chemical compound that research shows may help improve mental functioning. Keep reading to learn more about methylene blue and how it may influence cognitive function.
Methylene Blue 101
Methylene blue is most commonly used to treat the blood disease, methemoglobinemia. This condition decreases the ability of the hemoglobin in your blood to carry oxygen. Symptoms vary but can include skin discoloration, breathing problems, weakness, fatigue, headache, and in some cases these symptoms can be life threatening.
Methylene blue was originally synthesized in 1876 as an aniline-based dye for the textile industry, but scientists such as Robert Koch and Paul Ehrlich were quick to realize its potential for use in microscopy stains. The use of methylene blue for staining led to it being tested against tropical diseases, which led to methylene blue being used as a treatment for malaria.
Research on methylene blue and its possible benefits to health have been widely researched. Methylene blue has emerged as a subject of interest in the realm of cognitive enhancement due to its unique pharmacological properties and potential cognitive-improving effects.
Cognitive Function & Methylene Blue
There are many lifestyle, as well as biological, factors that affect cognitive function in adults. These factors include age, education, drinking, smoking, depression, social activity, history of disease, and overall health including obesity. Those are a lot of different areas that may work against maintaining or improving your cognitive function which is why boosting cognitive ability has been researched and studied so much!
Of course eating a healthy diet, staying active, and nurturing a network of family and friends may help with brain health, supplements may also be effective. The global brain health supplement market is valued at over $8 billion, so the interest in bettering brain health is definitely strong.
During early research on methylene blue, it was discovered that it could easily cross the blood-brain barrier and selectively stain nerve cells. This showed a unique interaction between methylene blue and brain tissue, which led to further research to explore its effects on brain function. Through this research, it was ultimately found that methylene blue enhances mitochondrial function and may potentially protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
Why is mitochondrial function important? Mitochondria are basically the “power plants” of the cells and they play an important role in creating energy to drive cellular function and all of our biological processes. Methylene blue improves mitochondrial function by limiting cell damage and improving the chain of electrons which ultimately improves the function of the mitochondria in the cells.
Methylene blue supplementation has been linked to improvements in memory recall and recognition. In some animal studies, methylene blue has shown to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein associated with synaptic plasticity and cognitive function.
The research surrounding methylene blue and its potentially positive effects on brain function are ongoing. Methylene blue may prove to be a giant step forward in improving and maintaining cognitive function.
Methylene Blue Supplementation
Although methylene blue is an old medication, it’s one of the most sought after supplements on the market today. Its various potential benefits are not limited to improving cognitive function, other possible benefits include: anti-aging properties, antiinflammatory attributes, antioxidant properties, mood stabilization abilities, and antimicrobial agents.
Methylene blue supplements are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making them an option for many people. However, there are some people who should not take methylene blue. These people include pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people who have a G6PD deficiency. People taking antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication also need to speak with a healthcare professional, as side effects with methylene blue may be serious.
Supplementing methylene blue is safe; however, before starting any supplement, speaking with a healthcare professional to discuss dosing and side effects is important. Knowing the source of supplements is also important as non-pharmaceutical-grade products can have fillers in them.
10X Health 10X Methylene Blue Drops
10X Health is excited to add 10x Methylene Blue Drops to its list of high quality supplements. This unique blend of methylene blue, mineral oxide, and black pepper extract is designed to support your energy levels, cognitive function, and overall wellness. If coupled with red-light therapy, you may experience an even greater boost in potential benefits.
Red light therapy (RLT) increases the effects of methylene blue because both RLT and methylene blue interact with the mitochondria within cells by boosting energy production. RLT basically enhances the effects of methylene blue when it is present in the cells.
10X Methylene Blue Drops are made like all 10X supplements, with only the best ingredients on the market. Also, they do not include any fillers or additives to dilute the supplement.
Reach out to 10X Health today to order your 10X Methylene Blue Drops!
