A well-known energy powerhouse, the Hordenine PEA stack is widely used to increase both physical and mental stamina.
Hordenine, a natural alkaloid produced by plants, is the perfect complement to the psychoactive chemical Phenylethylamine (PEA).
PEA’s cognitive enhancing effects are strong but short-lived, as MAOs in the body naturally erode PEA quickly. Hordenine inhibits MAOs and allow PEA to produce very potent effects.
Does stacking Hordenine and PEA have any side effects or significant drawbacks? Read on to find out the science behind this popular combo.



- Natural MAO inhibitor for enhanced mood
- Stimulates metabolism for weight loss
- Boosts focus, energy & motivation
Energy Boosting Effects of Hordenine
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Hordenine is found in many plants, but is more often developed for supplement use from barley seeds.
It is a bioavailable compound able to cross the blood brain barrier, where it has strong effects upon the adrenal system.
Similar to Tyramine, Hordenine acts as an MAO B inhibitor. MAOs, or monamine oxsidase, are aminos which curtail dopamine production, among other natural hormones.
By blocking MAOs, Hordenine increases the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, firing up cellular metabolism and boosting responses of the nervous system, while at the same time slightly raising blood pressure through vasocontraction.
In addition to creating a feeling of natural mental energy, Hordenine suppresses appetite and burns off excess fatty acids. Together, the energetic fat-burning combo is the perfect complement to intense exercise.
PEA Effects
Phenylethylamine (PEA) is another natural alkaloid found in plants which acts as a neurotransmitter once it’s in the brain. PEA stimulates the release of several endorphins like norepinephrine resulting in feelings of intense euphoria. These sensations are similar to what one feels when falling in love.
In addition to this mood lift, it can help create greater mental focus and dramatically improve nerve communication. PEA is very effective and its benefits are highly pronounced, but they are somewhat short-lasting, as PEA is metabolized quickly by natural MAOs.
Hordenine PEA Stack Effects
Hordenine’s MAO inhibiting power combines perfectly with PEA, protecting it from being degraded quickly. Overall, the two potentiate one another and increase the duration of effects very significantly.
Norepinephrine levels in the body remain strong and balanced for hours. Users report feeling strong euphoria and confidence. Mood remains positive and stressful situations like work or social events do not produce anxiety. Mental acuity is heightened for hours.
When taken in preparation for intense physical exercise, the Hordenine PEA Stack is known to boost athletic performance by delivering strong but not jittery energy. Fat burning is maximized during the workout and long afterwards. In fact, fat burning is accelerated even if no exercise is performed at all.
The lack of irritability or jittery muscles is one of the main advantages of this stack over heavy caffeine use, though there are some similarities to the effects. Taking the stack with a morning cup of coffee is also common, though this pairing might be too intense for more sensitive systems and cause irregular heart rhythm or sleeplessness.
Most people find that it’s not necessary to add the coffee. PEA and Hordenine provide strong, clear energy and mental focus that can last for at least several hours when used together.
Dosage for a Hordenine PEA stack
What’s the best dosage for your Hordenine PEA stack? Finding the exact right balance can be challenging, and is different for different people. The goal is to maximize mental alertness, natural energy, and metabolism to peak levels, without taking so much that the energy becomes overwhelming.
A good starting dose is 15 mg of Hordenine, combined with 300 mg of PEA. If this does not produce the desired effects, dosage can be increased to 30 mg of Hordenine and 500 mg of PEA. This dosage brings on several hours of strong energy and euphoria for most people.
Side Effects and Warnings
As with any supplement that stimulates energy, too high of a dosage could cause issues with circulation and blood pressure.
If you experience a rapid heart rate or arrhythmia, that’s a good indication that dosage is too high and needs to be reduced.
However, the PEA Hordenine stack does not produce this effect in most people and is considered as safe as a cup of coffee. Still, most people wouldn’t enjoy the effects of drinking 10 cups of coffee a day, so proceed cautiously and take note of any unusual reactions.
If you are currently taking any blood pressure medication, such as alpha or beta blockers, you should not take Hordenine or PEA. Nor should you take this stack while taking any other strong stimulants, like dextroamphetamines or pseudoephedrine/ephedrine.
Overall, a Hordenine PEA stack is an effective way to boost natural energy levels while firing up your metabolism. It can replace or enhance daily coffee drinking, and provides an excellent basis for effective fitness regimens.
Cognitive focus is improved, while adrenal hormones are balanced, resulting in a great mood and the mental stamina to attack your day. This stack is best reserved for short-term as opposed to long-term use.
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Article last updated on: March 25th, 2018 by Nootriment