The Promising Health Benefits of Higenamine from Custard Apples and Its Growing Medical Applications

Medical News: Ancient Remedy with Modern Potential
Higenamine, a plant-derived phytochemical compound with deep roots in traditional Chinese medicine, is gaining attention for its wide range of health benefits. Found in plants such as Annona squamosa (Custard Apple) and Aconitum and, it has been used historically to treat heart conditions like bradycardia, arrhythmia, and heart failure. Now, modern research is shedding light on its potential in cardiovascular health, respiratory conditions, and even weight loss.


The Promising Health Benefits of Higenamine from Custard Apples and Its Growing
Medical Applications

This Medical News report explores the latest findings on higenamine, particularly its ability to activate beta-adrenergic receptors, which influence heart rate, muscle function, and fat metabolism. Researchers from Shanghai University of Sport, Jiangnan University, Russian Sports University, and Beijing Sport University conducted a comprehensive review on its pharmacological properties and clinical applications. Their findings highlight its potential as a therapeutic agent while also raising concerns about its safety and regulatory status.
 
How Higenamine Works in the Body
Higenamine acts as a non-selective β-agonist, meaning it can activate both β1- and β2-adrenergic receptors. This activation leads to increased heart rate, improved heart contractions, and even bronchodilation, making it a promising compound for cardiovascular and respiratory health. Researchers have also found that higenamine plays a role in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant processes, which may contribute to its effectiveness in treating various conditions.
 
Its pharmacological benefits extend beyond the heart and lungs. The study highlights higenamine's ability to boost metabolism and promote fat breakdown, making it a common ingredient in weight loss supplements. However, its inclusion in dietary products has raised concerns, as higenamine is classified as a banned substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) due to its stimulant-like effects.
 
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Benefits
Higenamine’s cardiovascular effects are among the most extensively studied. The review cites research demonstrating that higenamine can:
 
-Increase heart rate and myocardial contractility, which could be beneficial for patients with heart failure or bradycardia
 
-Reduce blood pressure, particularly through its effects on α1-adrenaline receptors
 
-Prevent blood clot formation, which may have implications for stroke prevention
 
In addition to heart health, higenamine’s bronchodilator properties make it an interesting candidate for treating asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies have shown that it can relax airway muscles, similar to conventional bronchodilators like salbutamol and terbutaline, making breathing easier for patients with respiratory disorders.
 
Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective Effects
Inflammation and oxidative stress are key contributors to numerous diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
 
Higenamine has been found to reduce inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, which play a role in chronic diseases.
 
One significant finding from the study suggests that higenamine protects brain cells from ischemic injury, which is commonly seen in stroke patients. In rat models, it was shown to reduce oxidative damage, prevent neuron death, and promote brain cell survival, indicating potential applications in treating stroke and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
 
Weight Loss and Metabolism Boost
Higenamine’s ability to stimulate β-adrenergic receptors makes it a popular addition to weight loss supplements. Research has found that it can increase fat metabolism and energy expenditure, potentially aiding in weight management. However, there are concerns about its long-term safety, as high doses have been linked to heart palpitations and increased blood pressure.
 
Safety and Regulation Concerns
Despite its medical potential, higenamine is not without controversy. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) banned it in 2017, listing it as a β2-agonist, which means athletes should avoid supplements containing it. In the United States, the U.S. FDA has warned against higenamine in dietary supplements, classifying it as an unsafe food additive due to concerns about cardiovascular risks.
 
Animal studies have shown that high doses of higenamine can cause severe side effects, including tachycardia, respiratory distress, and even death. While moderate doses appear to be well-tolerated in some human studies, more research is needed to determine the optimal and safe dosage for medical use.
 
Future Research and Clinical Applications
The research team emphasizes that while higenamine shows great promise in treating heart disease, respiratory conditions, and obesity, its long-term safety, pharmacokinetics, and potential drug interactions remain unclear. Future studies should focus on optimizing its clinical use while ensuring it does not pose health risks to patients.
 
With its powerful effects on the cardiovascular system, metabolism, and inflammation, higenamine could become a valuable therapeutic agent in modern medicine. However, until more safety data is available, its use should be approached with caution - especially by athletes and individuals with existing heart conditions.
 
Thailand Medical News strongly advises that no one should initiate taking any higenamine supplements till they had had a comprehensive health screening and have discussed taking the phytochemical with a licensed medical doctor.
 
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Nutrients.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/6/1030
 
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