Within the biohacking community, a new substance has become all the rage, and it’s boldly, unapologetically blue. Across social channels within this community of intrepid wellness pioneers and experimenters, people are showing their allegiance to the substance by sticking their tongues out, coated in blue dye. So what is methylene blue – this trendy, not-quite-mainstream thing?
Methylene blue is a long-existing substance in the medical community that’s now being touted by influencers like Dave Asprey (of Bulletproof coffee fame) as an anti-aging tool. Within medicine, methylene blue is used to treat a blood disorder in which, as Healthline explains, cells receive too little oxygen.
More recently, it’s become known for being used in everyday moisturizers, because it is absorbed through the skin and protects connective tissue cells from aging. MB, as it’s known among connoisseurs, protects mitochondria from aging oxidative stress.
Cited Benefits
A 2017 study showed that Methylene Blue was more effective in delaying the aging of skin more than other antioxidants in the research. Used in this context, MB increased skin hydration and boosted the production of elastin and collagen.
Off-label enthusiasts of MB claim it has myriad benefits beyond skin and veins.
Fans say the substance also helps with some of the following:
- Energy production
- Antioxidant properties
- Neuroprotective properties
- Mental performance
- Mood enhancement
As with every substance of purported benefit (especially those that, like MB, are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration), it’s key to do your own homework. Along with Healthline and pro-MB (but non-medical) proponents like Asprey, another resource to review is in this piece from Limitless Mindset and the MB purveyors, Troscriptions.
If you do try MB, be especially careful of the dosage. Like most things, taking too much or too frequently can be harmful.
Would you try methylene blue off-label? Why or why not?
