The Facts on Methylene Blue
Methylene blue has been used throughout history in the medical community, but it didn’t start there. Surprisingly, it was first developed in the late 19th century by a German chemist as a textile dye. Its vibrant blue color gained a lot of attention, not only for its eye-catching hue, but for what it may provide the medical community with its distinct staining properties.
Surgeons realized its potential as a valuable tool in surgical procedures, particularly in enhancing visualization and precision. It was then used in techniques such as lymph node mapping, where it helped identify cancerous cells in lymph nodes. Methylene blue was studied further to identify its antimicrobial effects.
In the early 20th century, researchers discovered that when combined with antimalarial drugs, methylene blue exhibited strong anti-parasitic properties. Methylene blue was found to be particularly effective against the parasites responsible for malaria, and therefore helped reduce the effects of malaria and accelerate the recovery of patients with the disease.
One of the most popular uses of methylene blue is in the treatment of methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder whereby your red blood cells bind to oxygen in a different way resulting in less oxygen being delivered to your organs.
Methylene blue works by helping to convert red blood cells into a form that will properly carry and release oxygen. Basically it helps turn oxygen-containing red blood cells back into their normal state.
Methylene blue is only FDA approved for treatment of methemoglobinemia, however there has been a lot of research done on other off-label uses. Methylene blue may provide anti-aging effects, improve cognitive function, boost energy levels, reduce mortality and morbidity and more. Talking with your healthcare provider before starting methylene blue is the first step in using it for these potential off-label benefits.
How Methylene Blue Works
Methylene blue has some unique chemical properties that, when interacting with various cellular components, allow for potential beneficial effects. Methylene blue is known for enhancing mitochondrial functioning. Mitochondria are often referred to as the “powerhouses of the cell” whose main function is to generate the energy necessary to power cells. Methylene blue’s potential off-label benefits have a lot to do with its mitochondrial effects in cells.
Potential benefits of methylene blue include:
Mitochondrial function: Methylene blue enhances electron flow in cells which reduces oxidative stress. This improves mitochondrial function and promotes cellular energy production that may offer therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative conditions.
Antioxidant Boost: Methylene blue acts as an antioxidant, meaning it protects cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can contribute to aging and cell damage. Methylene blue may promote better skin quality and reduce oxidative stress which harms cells.
Cognitive Enhancement: Research indicates that methylene blue might enhance cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain and potentially improving memory and attention.
Nerve Protection: Some studies suggest that methylene blue may offer neuroprotective effects. It can help preserve nerve cells’ viability and function, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
Treatment for Chemotherapy effects: Small studies suggest that methylene blue-based mouth rinses may help reduce mouth sore-related pain (mucositis) caused by chemotherapy and radiation.
Methylene blue is being researched for even more potential benefits like treating lyme disease, Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular diseases.
Red Light Therapy & Methylene Blue
It is worth mentioning that the potential beneficial effects of methylene blue are enhanced when used in conjunction with red light therapy. There may be even more possible advantages uncovered by using these two in tandem.
Methylene blue and red light therapy have a synergistic relationship wherein methylene blue donates electrons and red light therapy contributes photons to the electron transport chain, resulting in an increase in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. The increase in mitochondrial and overall cellular activity, function, and respiration protects against neurodegeneration.
These two interventions share common cellular mechanisms such as enhanced energy production, low-dose hormetic dose responses, reduction in oxidative stress, and upregulation of brain-derived neotropic factors (BDNF). All of these mechanisms serve to protect neurons from degeneration.
10X Methylene Blue Drops
New to the 10X Health line of supplements are 10X Methylene Blue Drops. The formula combines methylene blue, mineral oxide, and black pepper extract to enhance your body’s energy production and promote optimal wellness. The addition of mineral oxide and black pepper extract provide added essential minerals that support biochemical processes in the body, and enhance the bioavailability (absorption) of methylene blue.
As with all 10X Health supplements, 10X Methylene Blue Drops are made using only the most high-quality ingredients on the market. There are no fillers or additives in the supplements.
Methylene blue has come a long way since its introduction as a textile dye. The medical and wellness industries continue to research the potential benefits and applications of what was once a simple substance.
Order your 10X Methylene Blue Drops from 10X Health today!
