The transcript mentions that there are studies using methylene blue in animals for stroke, but it does not go into detail about the results or specifics of these studies. The speaker only states that there is research in this area.
This video features a conversation between Thomas DeLauer and Dr. Scott Sher, a leading expert on methylene blue. They discuss the uses, benefits, potential risks, and proper dosing of methylene blue, addressing common misconceptions and concerns surrounding its recent surge in popularity.
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1. Origins and History of Methylene Blue: The discussion begins with methylene blue's origin as a textile dye in the 1870s, used to dye blue jeans. Its early medicinal use stemmed from its antimicrobial properties, particularly effective against malaria. It was even termed a "magic bullet" for its ability to kill pathogens without harming the human host. After the 1950s, the advent of antibiotics diminished its use as an antimicrobial, though its unique properties led to further research and applications.
2. Methylene Blue's Effect on the Electron Transport Chain: Methylene blue's primary mechanism involves its role in the electron transport chain within the mitochondria. It acts as both an electron donor and acceptor, compensating for dysfunction in the protein complexes (complexes 1, 2, 3, and 4) of the electron transport chain. This action helps improve energy production (ATP synthesis) and reduces oxidative stress by acting as an antioxidant, neutralizing reactive oxygen species (free radicals).
3. Dosing and Titration of Methylene Blue: The speakers emphasize the importance of starting with low doses (4-8 milligrams) and gradually increasing the dose every 3-5 days until the desired effects are achieved. The optimal dose varies significantly between individuals, typically ranging from 8 to 25 milligrams for mitochondrial optimization. Higher doses (up to 75 milligrams or more) may be used in acute situations or for specific medical conditions under a doctor's supervision. The speakers caution against the high doses often found in some commercially available liquid products, which may lead to negative side effects.
4. Safety Concerns and Side Effects: The primary safety concern revolves around the potential for organ discoloration at extremely high doses. This is seen only in severe medical situations where IV administration of very high doses is used as a last-resort treatment. At the lower doses typically used for mitochondrial support or mood enhancement, methylene blue is considered safe. However, starting low and gradually increasing the dose (titration) is recommended to minimize the possibility of side effects, such as feeling "funny" or slightly disoriented, which can occur as the neurotransmitter levels adjust.
5. Methylene Blue's Use in Enhancing Physical Performance: Methylene Blue is shown to improve aerobic capacity by acting as an alternative final electron acceptor in the mitochondria, compensating for oxygen deficiency. This translates to enhanced endurance, enabling athletes to maintain higher heart rates and work for longer periods. Post-anaerobic activity, it can aid in faster recovery. The speakers discuss its use by endurance athletes, including a 100-mile ultramarathoner who reduced his race time by three hours.
6. Methylene Blue and Mental Health: Methylene blue acts as a mild, short-acting MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor), increasing levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. This contributes to its mood-boosting effects. It is being studied for its potential benefits in treating depression and bipolar disorder, also stemming from its impact on mitochondrial function, as many mental health disorders involve mitochondrial dysfunction.
7. Methylene Blue for Alzheimer's Disease: Studies show methylene blue's potential in treating Alzheimer's, potentially by improving blood flow and helping to clear amyloid proteins. A specific study mentioned shows promising results with low doses of 8 milligrams twice daily compared to higher doses.
8. Selecting a Methylene Blue Product: Choosing a high-quality product is critical due to potential contamination with heavy metals. The speakers strongly advise against purchasing methylene blue supplements from Amazon due to the prevalence of counterfeit or low-quality products. They recommend checking for a certificate of analysis from the manufacturer, verifying purity and potency. Liquid forms of methylene blue are discouraged due to inconsistencies in potency.
9. Other Uses and Considerations: The discussion includes methylene blue's potential use as an adaptogen, adjusting to the body's needs for energy or detoxification. Its usage during the menstrual cycle is discussed due to increased stress and oxidative stress during that time. The speakers also touch upon jet lag, where higher doses of methylene blue are recommended before and during travel to mitigate the various stress factors associated with travel.
The transcript mentions the following diseases:
The video also discusses insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction as underlying contributors to various health problems, though these are not diseases in themselves but rather metabolic conditions.
