DMHA or dimethylhexylamine also commonly known as octridine, is a psychoactive stimulant of the central nervous system. It also goes by some other names such as 2-aminoisoheptane.
The stimulant has a similar molecular structure to other stimulants such as AMP citrate and ephedrine. There are two forms of DMHA based on the structure: 2-amino-6-methylheptane, which is the synthetic form, and 2-amino-5-methylheptane, which is naturally occurring.
The natural version of DMHA is more costly to produce than the synthetic form. However, the natural version is thought to be more potent in its mechanism of action than the synthetic version.
The natural version, 2-amino-5-methylheptane, can be found in Kigelia Africana Extract and Juglans Regia Extract. Dimethylhexylamine is new to the market, and it is commonly found in pre-workout and thermogenic fat burner supplements.
What Is The Source Of DMHA?
The common source of DMHA is a fruit known as Kigela Africana. Some products may label DMHA as aconitum kusnezoffi or aconite extract since there are claims that the stimulant is obtained from the Aconitum plant family.
These claims could be false, as the Aconitum plant family is toxic. DMHA contained in supplements is most probably not obtained from the Aconitum plant family since plant has poisonous to human health.
How Does DMHA Work?
DMHA has a similar molecular structure to other sympathomimetic stimulants such as DMAA and the AMP citrate. Due to the similarity in molecular structure, some experts claim that the mechanism of action is similar.
DMHA, DMAA, and AMP citrate all have a methyl group on the alpha carbon. The methyl group inhibits the activity of the monoamine oxidase enzyme. The enzyme is responsible for the degradation of monoamines in the body. The methyl group also enhances the amphiphilic nature of DMHA.
The amphiphilic property makes the compound both hydrophilic and hydrophobic. The increase in lipid solubility of DMHA improves its absorption through the blood brain barrier. The methyl group also increases the stimulants affinity for the catecholamine transporters. The increase in affinity for these transporters reduces the reuptake of epinephrine and norepinephrine.
An increase in the interaction between catecholamines and the target transporter leads to a greater stimulant effect. An increase in the reuptake of catecholamines results in a decrease in the stimulant effect.
Health Benefits Of DMHA
DMHA Aids Bodybuilders
The ability of DMHA to boost energy levels in the body and enhance attention makes it the best stimulant for bodybuilders. DMHA is capable of increasing the levels of monoamine such as dopamine and norepinephrine in the body.
The monoamines have been shown to increase the desire to train. Animal studies have shown that DMHA can increase the pain threshold. The increase in pain threshold can help support more intense workouts and reduce the rate of perceived exertion.
Aids Weight Loss
DMHA has been shown to be an excellent appetite suppressant. Its ability to suppress appetite can be used to promote fat loss by reducing the urge to snack. It is important to remember that the stimulant has been banned in sports due to its structural similarity to other banned substances. It should not be taken during a sports competition.
Elevates Mood
DMHA is beneficial to individuals who are suffering from mild depression and mental fatigue. The ingredient has been shown to elevate mood, increase mental alertness, and reduce mental fatigue among people who feel anxious.
Improves Memory
The stimulant may also improve cognitive functions – mainly memory, motivation, and creativity. The ability of DMHA to enhance memory can be used to manage cognitive function difficulties that arise due to disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease. However, there is a need for further research in this area.
Enhances Thermogenesis
Thermogenisis is the ability of the body to produce heat. Thermogenesis is beneficial to bodybuilders as it helps them burn more excess fats in the body. Thermogenics also help increase the basal metabolic rate by raising the body's energy expenditure.
Nasal Decongestion
DMHA can be used to relieve nasal congestion. A stuffy nose is a common sign of colds and allergies. Nasal congestion arises when the membranes that line the nose become swollen. Stimulants decongest the nose by narrowing the blood vessels that supply the nostrils. The narrowing of the blood vessels reduces blood supply to the swollen membranes, causing the layers to relax.
Possible Side Effects Associated With DMHA
There is no sufficient evidence on how DMHA acts in the body and the possible adverse effects that may result from its activity. Based on the structure similarity to DMAA and AMP citrate, it is thought that DMHA could lead to similar side effects such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and shortness of breath.
It is advisable to start with a very moderate amount of the stimulant before increasing the dose. For athletes, it is best to avoid the use of DMHA.
DMHA Recommended Dose
There is no official dose recommended for the stimulant. Based on animal studies, most experts recommend a conservative dose of 1mg/kg. The best time to take DMHA is 30-60 minutes prior to a workout session.
The stimulant helps increase the energy levels in the body. It can be taken throughout the day as an appetite suppressant. The ability to suppress appetite helps to trim excess fats in the body.
Top Products Containing DMHA
1. .30-06 Nitric Oxide Booster With DMHA By Micronamin
The product is recommended for bodybuilders. It improves blood circulation in the body which helps lower muscle soreness and fatigue in bodybuilders. It also reduces the muscle recovery time, enabling bodybuilders to perform longer workouts and get faster results. The nitric oxide also accelerates the fat burning process in the abs, thighs, and arms.
The ingredients contained in the supplement include DMHA, L-Citrulline Malate, L-Arginine, and Arginine AAKG, among others. It has an overall rating of 4.4 stars out of a possible five stars on Amazon. Its price is $26.55.
2. AAN's Pre-Workout EXTREME DMHA Nitric Oxide Booster
The product contains pre-workout ingredients that help boost energy levels, endurance, and focus in bodybuilders. The supplement is vegetarian-friendly, and it does not include proprietary blends. It has premium quality ingredients that support the motivation and desire to train. The product has an overall rating of 4.2 stars out of a possible five stars on Amazon. Its price is $34.97.
DMHA Final Thoughts
DMHA has numerous health benefits to bodybuilders. The stimulant can be used along with a variety of other supplements.
It can be combined with creatinine, BCAA, and proteins to further boost training results. More research work needs to be performed to find out the possible side effects of DMHA in the body.
