Hordenine is a natural phenylethylamine-related chemical that occurs in a number of different plants such as barley grass and bitter orange.
Also known as N,N-dimethyltyramine, this compound is a N-methyl derivative of the amino acid tyramine.
Hordenine is also increasingly being used as a Nootropic that works to improve cognitive function, stimulate higher energy levels and improve your mood.
This nootropic is used as an herbal MAO inhibitor to promote focus, concentration and even euphoric feelings. You will commonly see Hordenine being stacked with phenlyethylamine (PEA) for cognitive enhancement purposes.
The supplement is also used by bodybuilders, athletes and people trying to lose weight because it can increase metabolism while at the same time decreasing appetite.



- Natural MAO inhibitor for enhanced mood
- Stimulates metabolism for weight loss
- Boosts focus, energy & motivation
Hordenine Effects:
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Although the exact mechanisms of action for Hordenine are not fully understood, it does appear to work as an MAO-B inhibitor.
Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) is an enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitters phenylethylamine and dopamine among others.
By inhibiting the effects of this enzyme, you can prevent this breakdown from occurring and indirectly increase levels of these two mood-regulating hormones.
Typically, taking a Phenylethylamine HCL supplement on its own will only give a short-term boost to your mood since the MAO will metabolize this chemical quickly. If you stack Phenylethylamine with Hordenine, you can interfere with this process and effectively cause more positive feelings in the brain.
In addition to this, the stimulant-like effects of Hordenine are caused due to stimulation of the adregernic system. As it crosses over the blood-brain barrier and enters into the central nervous system it helps to increase the levels of Norepinephrine. This effect is caused primarily by blocking its removal from the synaptic cleft.
It is also thought to be a vasoconstrictor, meaning that it causes blood vessels and passageways to constrict. Additionally, it works as an anti-asthmatic and cardiotonic substance.
Another interesting mechanism of action is that Hordenine helps to release a number of fatty acids. As these acids are liberated and oxidized throughout the organism, body composition is changed.
At this point, the supplement is thought to realign the set point of the body. The idea behind this is also known as set point theory, arguing that the body prefers equilibrium and will resist changes in body mass.
Hordenine Benefits:
The primary effect of this supplement is to increase energy at the same time that it helps to control appetite and promote fat loss.
Although all of these effects are much more pronounced in athletes and those who are engaged in serious training (strength or otherwise), these effects can also be seen in those who are not actively engaged in any sort of physical activity.
This means that everyone may now have the potential for easy fat loss, due to more calories being burned even while at rest.
Hordenine also has the benefit of helping to slow the digestion of food. This is also largely responsible for the supplement acting as an apparent appetite suppressant, since it makes it possible to last more time between meals. This, in turn, lowers overall caloric intake, speeds satiation during eating, and eliminates hunger pains and other food cravings. This means huge potential for anyone on a diet.
Hordenine may also have a potential benefit as a bronchial dilator. In other words, it may have promise as an asthma treatment option. However, at this point, there needs to be more research in this area.
This supplement is also becoming increasingly well-known as having a number of cognitive benefits. Many users indicate that it helps to produce greater levels of cognitive energy and boosts their productivity, sometimes dramatically. Others find they have a lot more motivation – especially when it comes to sex drive.
Additional mental benefits include the lengthening of the attention span, reduction of brain fog, and lends itself to better concentration and focus to avoid distractions.
Some people think that taking this as part of a Nootropic stack may help to potentiate and synergize with many other supplements from Aniracetam to Noopept to Adrafinil. There is also evidence that Hordenine may help certain people work on mentally demanding tasks for extended periods of time.
Hordenine Dosage:
The most commonly recommended dosage for Hordenine is to take up to 30 mg two or three times per day.
In the Zoned Nootropic Stack, you will find 50 mg of Hordenine per serving. As a workout enhancer (for producing more intense bursts of energy), the best time to take would be about 45 minutes or so before exercise.
If you intend to use it as a fat burner and weight loss aid, than it would be best to take it in the morning on an empty stomach and then about six hours later. You would not want to take this later than the early or mid-afternoon due to the energy increase might be disruptive to sleeping patterns.
This is also a good supplement to stack with others. It goes well with caffeine, L-Carnitine, and PEA for fat reduction and energy enhancement. It can also be combined with a number of Nootropics for enhancing cognitive effects and productivity. This would include Piracetam, Aniracetam, and Choline.
Hordenine Side Effects:
This supplement does have a very strong safety profile and it is very well-tolerated in most healthy adults.
Of course, since it is technically a stimulant, it would not be a good idea for people with heart conditions or high blood pressure to use Hordenine unless clearing it with their doctor. You should also not be combining Hordenine with other MAO inhibitors or pharmaceutial drugs for depression and anxiety.
Most of the following side effects only occur at much higher than recommended doses: nausea, insomnia, dizziness, anxiety, upset stomach, mood swings, rapid heart rate, and possibly hallucinations. If any of these side effects are present, the best course of action is to discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Hordenine Review:
If you are currently taking Phenylethylamine, adding Hordenine to your nootropic stack can provide a significant boost to your mood and produce feelings of well-being. This natural compound can increase the effects and duration of activity for most stimulants and cognitive enhancers. It is also known to work well on its own for promoting energy, focus, motivation and drive.
Many users may further be interested in the claims that Hordenine can heighten fat loss and appetite control in both athletes and non-athletes. While Hordenine can cause negative side effects and needs to be used with certain precautions, it is a well-regarded nootropic that you might want to consider adding to your brain hacking routine.
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Article last updated on: March 13th, 2018 by Nootriment
3 Comments
Hordenine only has effect when injected
It’s true that most animal studies have looked at Hordenine effects following injection and there have been several studies that show now effect after oral dosages. However, there have also been animal studies that did show an effect following oral administration (Bourke et al.,1988, 2006). Either way, not enough human testing has been conducted yet to provide a definitive answer.
Is it doping free?