Just something I ran across
Usnic Acid
1. What is usnic acid?
Usnic acid is a naturally occurring metabolite that can be found in specific lichen species and kombucha tea. It has been shown to uncouple oxidative phosphorylation similar to DNP. This process results in an inefficient use of energy by the body. In response the body steps up ATP production, increases its metabolism, and burns a tremendous amount of extra calories.
2. How long does it stay in my system?
Studies have been performed that show usnic acid has a half life of around 6-14 hours. This means that it stays present and active in your system for quite a while. Studies have also shown the bioavailability to be as high as 78%!
3. What are the side effects or risks involved?
There are over 61 published abstracts showing the safety of usnic acid use. All of the information currently known shows there are no irreversible side effects. Most usnic acid users report increase body heat and sweating. This makes sense as the body has increased ATP production and is burning more calories. Some people report increased tiredness or lethargy. A few users have reported developing a rash through usnic acid use. This generally came from using a dosage that exceeded recommendations. Furthermore, the rash subsided in all users within a few days to a week. As with anything, it is strongly recommended that you use caution when using a new supplement. Anyone with an existing medical condition should seek a doctors advice before using an unfamiliar substance including but not limited to: pregnant or lactating, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart condition, thyroid problems, liver disease. If any symptoms develop, discontinue use and seek the advice of a medical professional.
4. What is the recommended dosage and how often should I take it?
The recommended dosage is 250-500mg per day. Because the half-life of usnic acid is rather long, it need not be taken as frequently as an ECA or NYC for example. Many people like taking usnic acid in the morning and again in the evening. Because of the increased sweating generally found, others prefer to take the full amount in the evening or before bed. Some people choose to use an ECA in the morning/afternoon and usnic acid in the evening. This will help combat any fatigue generated from usnic acid use. Start with 250mg (1 pill) for 2-3 days to assess tolerance and then increase dosage. Note: some people have experimented with higher dosages of usnic acid with great success. Exercise caution when increasing the dosage. Make sure to wait at least 2-3 days before increasing dosage beyond 500mg. Follow this same procedure for each gradual increment.
5. How long should I cycle usnic acid for?
In theory, usnic acid is an herbal ingredient shown to increase chemical thermogenesis on a prolonged basis. In which case, it need not be cycled and thus could be used until desired fat loss is achieved. Even with that being said, we disagree with the literature and recommend cycles of 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off. This idea comes from the base premise that the body builds tolerance to nearly every form of stimuli.
6. Is there any other supplements I should take with usnic acid?
Usnic acid can be used alone with great success. Some people like to combine it with an ECA for an added energy boost and additional fat loss. In general, a healthy and balanced regiment should be used with any supplement. A good multivitamin should be used daily to ensure proper functionality throughout the body. In addition, it might be beneficial to combine usnic acid with an antioxidant such as ALA.
7. What sort of diet should I maintain while using usnic acid?
Usnic acid is used to aid the body in fat loss. One should always keep in mind that a supplement is intended to assist the body, not do all the work. In order to lose fat, one should always combine exercise (weight training and cardiovascular activity) with a strict diet. In generally, to lose fat, one should ingest around 10 calories per pound where 40% = carbohydrates, 40% = protein, and 20% = fat.
The following is from the Sigma Alderich Chemical company information page:
Synonyms: 2,6-Diacetyl-7,9-dihydroxy-8,9b-dimethyldibenzofuran-1,3(2H,9bH)-dione
(+)-Usnic acid Usnea dasypoga
MDL number: MFCD00016878
Molecular Formula: C18H16O7
Molecular Weight: 344.3
CAS Number: 7562-61-0
MDL Number: MFCD00016878
Assay: 98%
EC Number: 2314560
BRN: 96698
Merck Index: Merck13,9806
Beilstein Index: Beil.18,V,5,586
Comments:
98%
[a]25 +488°, c = 0.4 in CHCl3 (lit.)
as posted by Candian @ Massmonsters.com