Methylene Blue: Does it live up to the hype?

Methylene Blue is a fascinating chemical compound with a fascinating history and a wide array of applications. Known by its scientific name, “methylthioninium chloride”, this versatile dye has found its way into various fields, from medicine to chemistry, to photography and even biohacking.

In this article, we will delve into what makes Methylene Blue such a unique compound, and what its applications are in a biohacking context.

Quick history of Methylene Blue

Before explaining how Methylene Blue works and what it does to the body, I think it’s worth discovering where it comes from and what its historical uses have been.

Methylene Blue was originally synthesized in the late 19th century to be used as a dye for textiles due to its strong, deep blue color. A few decades later, in the early 20th century, its therapeutic properties were discovered and it was used to combat malaria and radiation as well as an antidote for various forms of poisoning.

In recent years, Methylene Blue has gained popularity among biohackers for its health and performance-enhancing properties.

Biohacking benefits of Methylene Blue

Improved mitochondrial function

Mitochondria, often referred to as the cellular powerhouses, are pivotal for energy production. One of the most captivating aspects of Methylene Blue is its ability to enhance mitochondrial function. It works by accepting and donating electrons, which helps improve the efficiency of the electron transport chain, a critical part of energy generation in cells.

By optimizing mitochondrial function, Methylene Blue can:

• Boost Energy Levels: Enhanced mitochondrial function leads to increased energy production in the form of ATP. Biohackers often use Methylene Blue to combat fatigue and enhance physical and mental stamina. Most users report an almost immediate rush of energy and focus after taking it, which can help in the gym, the workplace or any other environment that requires physical and/or mental effort.
• Improve Cellular Health: Healthy mitochondria are fundamental to overall cellular health. Methylene Blue plays a role in preserving and revitalizing mitochondria and contributes to cellular longevity and anti-aging by increasing NAD+ levels.

Antioxidant properties

Methylene Blue also exhibits robust antioxidant properties. It can counteract oxidative stress, a condition where an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants can lead to cellular damage and aging. In the context of biohacking, this is particularly significant because oxidative stress can impair cognitive function and accelerate the aging process.

Methylene Blue’s antioxidant capabilities offer biohackers the following advantages:

• Cognitive Enhancement: By reducing oxidative stress, Methylene Blue may support cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity. This can be crucial for individuals seeking peak mental performance.
• Anti-Aging Benefits: Slowing down the aging process is a core goal in biohacking. Methylene Blue’s antioxidant properties contribute to cellular longevity and may help combat the effects of aging.
• Organ Protection: The antioxidant effects of Methylene Blue can help protect organs like the liver and the kidneys from the toxicity of bodybuilding PEDs like Anabolic Steroids and SARMs.

Other benefits

Methylene Blue has also been shown to have significant anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, antidepressant and anti-infective properties. It truly is a swiss army knife of medicine that is still largely overlooked by the pharmaceutical industry (probably because it fixes a lot of the issues their expensive medicines are designed to “mask”).

Side-effects of Methylene Blue

Methylene Blue is extremely safe and rarely causes concerning side-effects. Some possible issues include:

• Bluish urine and skin, very rare.
• Digestive issues.
• Headaches and dizziness.
• Low blood pressure.

It is important not to mix it with SSRIs (antidepressants) as it can interact with them and cause unwanted mental health problems.

How to use it

Methylene Blue is typically dosed at 0.5 to 2mg per KG of bodyweight. Start low and work your way up to 4mg/kg. If you tolerate that dose well, you can try going as high as 4mg/kg (just titrate it up slowly).

It can be cycled during times where heightened energy and focus are necessary, or taken occasionally as needed.

In conclusion, Methylene Blue is a fascinating compound with incredible properties that, in my opinion, will become incredibly popular not just in biohacking circles, but also in society as a whole in the coming years.