L-arginine is an essential amino acid. Arginine, a semi-essential amino acid, is involved in numerous areas of human biochemistry, including ammonia detoxification, hormone secretion, and immune modulation. Arginine is also well known as a precursor to nitric oxide (NO), a key component of endothelial-derived relaxing factor, an endogenous messenger molecule involved in a variety of endothelium-dependent physiological effects in the cardiovascular system.
L-ornithine may be used as an alternative since it metabolizes to L-arginine in the body. L-arginine is required for the body to synthesize nitric oxide, which enables the arterial system to retain its youthful elasticity. Nitric oxide also helps to produce endothelial relaxation factor, which is needed by the arterial system to expand and contract with each heartbeat.54-68
L-arginine may also help stimulate the immune system.69-72 Surgical or traumatic injury greatly increases the body’s need for L-arginine, a key building block to maintaining healthy tissue and bone. L-ornithine may also be used for this purpose.73-84
Serving Size 1 level teaspoon (approx. 3 grams)
Servings Per Container 50
L-arginine hydrochloride
2.25 g
L-ornithine hydrochloride
750 mg
Other ingredients: none.
This product contains NO milk, egg, fish, peanuts, crustacean shellfish, soybeans, tree nuts, wheat, yeast, gluten, corn, or rice. Contains NO sugar, and no artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Studies suggest that low doses of L-arginine and/or L-ornithine are unlikely to effect GH release. A minimum dose of L-arginine to promote GH release is probably eight grams. At high doses, L-ornithine can stimulate GH release.
L-arginine free base powder can be mixed with water or juice. However, it is alkaline and some people find that mixing ascorbic acid with it produces a more pH neutral and palatable drink.
Start with about 25% of your target quantity and increase it gradually over a period of a few days to minimize the occurrence of minor side effects like nausea.
If you have diabetes or have ever been diagnosed with cancer or cardiovascular disease, consult your healthcare practitioner before using this product. L-arginine sometimes can reactivate latent herpes virus infections. Those with certain psychoses may experience worsened symptoms if they take L-arginine supplements. Always take antioxidants with L-arginine. Persons who have not completed their bone growth (children and teenagers) and pregnant or lactating women should not use GH releasers except under a physician’s supervision.
