Introduction
Methylene blue has gained notoriety as new research demonstrates its nootropic properties. A nootropic is a medicinal substance that improves memory, learning, and has neuroprotective properties. This is a game changer in brain health and shows promise for an ageing population.1 Remarkably these noteworthy benefits can be achieved at low doses. Methylene blue is a biohacker’s ultimate dream come true as it supports added “brain power.” One of its most unique properties is its’ ability to cross the blood brain barrier.
In this blog I discuss the history, uses, and benefits of low dose methylene blue. Additionally, I describe how it works to improve brain function, its actions on the mitochondria, and finally important precautions and potential side effects.
The History of Methylene Blue
Methylene blue was first synthesized as textile dye in the 1800s. Its first medical indication was for malaria treatment. It was also extensively used as an antifungal, an antibacterial and an anti-viral agent before antibiotics became available in the 1950s. Then, in the mid-twentieth century it was discovered to have antipsychotic and mood enhancing properties.1 The first anti-psychotic drug, chlorpromazine, was derived from methylene blue. Methylene blue is FDA approved to treat methemoglobinemia, a rare blood disorder which impairs oxygen delivering in the body. Off-label uses include ischemia, septic shock, and cyanide poisoning. It is currently used as an indicator dye for surgical procedures and in laboratories. Methylene blue imparts much of its benefits by acting on the mitochondria, the special organelles within cells where energy is generated. Here’s a mechanistic overview of what Methylene blue does.
Mitochondrial Actions of Methylene Blue
- Functions as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor by preventing monoamine neurotransmitter breakdown (dopamine, melatonin, and serotonin). This directly increases availability of these neurotransmitters.
- Functions as a cholinesterase inhibitor, thereby increasing the amount of acetylcholine available.2 Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in the brain responsible for arousal, attention, memory, and motivation.
- Functions as a powerful antioxidant by scavenging the mitochondria and cellular space for free electrons to accept and neutralize. This property lends to methylene blue’s neuroprotective effects.
- Functions as an auto-oxidant, donating electrons to the electron transport chain and increases adenosine trisphosphate (ATP) production. ATP is the body’s currency for energy. Interestingly, methylene blue promotes ATP production in the presence or absence of oxygen.
What does all that really mean? That the benefits of taking methylene blue can be improved ATP production and cellular energy, neuroprotection, and support of various neurotransmitters that boost focus, mood and cognition in the brain. This is all accomplished at low dose.
High Risk of Contamination
Caution must be used when purchasing methylene blue as it carries a high risk of contamination. Industrial and chemical grade sources can have an 8-11% contamination rate. These risky sources of methylene blue can contain arsenic, aluminum, cadmium, lead, and mercury.3 For this reason only pharmaceutical grade methylene blue, proven and tested to be free of contamination, should be used.
Precautions and Side Effects of Methylene Blue
Side-effects of methylene blue can include headaches, elevated blood pressure and urine taking on a blue-green hue. Allergic reactions to thiazide dyes are possible also. Methylene blue is contraindicated in pregnancy and while breast feeding as it can harm the fetus and the newborn. Methylene blue can interfere with some antidepressant drug classes like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.4 Methylene blue is used with caution or not at all in those with a glucose-6-phosphate deficiency (G6PD). G6PD testing should be done before taking higher amounts of methylene blue.5
Summary of Methylene Blue’s Unique Benefits:
- Promotes a higher level of focus
- Promotes sustained energy
- Provides neuroprotection, and
- Improves mood
Whether used with other therapies or as a monotherapy, methylene blue is a game changer, working to boost brain function, to optimize health, and in support of healthy aging.
To learn more about how our comprehensive approach can help you achieve the health you deserve call 909-981-9200 to schedule your FREE DISCOVERY CALL.
Dr. Sasha Blissett is a California State licensed Naturopathic Doctor who found her passion for naturopathic medicine while battling her own health and skin issues. She specializes in women’s health and takes the time to listen to her patient’s health concerns so she can understand and address the root cause of illnesses. Dr. Blissett is a member of the American Academy of Anti-aging Medicine, Association for the Advancement of Restorative Medicine, the Integrative Dermatology Learnskin, and California Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
References:
1. Bruchey AK, Gonzalez-Lima F, Behavioral, Physiological and Biochemical Hormetic Responses to the Autoxidizable Dye Methylene Blue.
2. Oz M, Lorke DE, Hasan M, Petroianu GA. Cellular and molecular actions of Methylene Blue in the nervous system.
3. Rojas JC, Bruchey AK, Gonzalez-Lima F, Neurometabolic mechanisms for memory enhancement and neuroprotection of methylene blue.
4. Gillman PK, CNS toxicity involving methylene blue: the exemplar for understanding and predicting drug interactions that precipitate serotonin toxicity.
5. Mandi G, Witte S, Meissner P, Coulibaly B, Mansmann U, Rengelshausen J, Schiek W, Jahn A, Sanon M, Wüst K, Walter-Sack I, Mikus G, Burhenne J, Riedel KD, Schirmer H, Kouyaté B, Müller O, Safety of the combination of chloroquine and methylene blue in healthy adult men with G6PD deficiency from rural Burkina Faso.