Health Guide

Nordihydrocapsaicinguaiaretic acid

Nordihydrocapsaicinguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a powerful natural compound found primarily in the creosote bush (*Larrea tridentata*). Historically used by Native American tribes for healing, NDGA is a polyphenol antioxidant that acts as a natural defense mechanism for the plant. For humans, it is a fascinating supplement studied for its ability to combat oxidative stress and support metabolic health. Think of it as nature's internal 'rust protector,' helping your cells stay resilient against daily wear and tear.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

NDGA Potency vs. Common Antioxidants

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Antioxidant Activity (Relative)

Compound →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Powerful Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals that cause cellular aging.
Metabolic Support: May help regulate fat metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Viral Defense: Shows potential activity against certain viruses in preliminary studies.

Deep Dive

NDGA is chemically classified as a lignan. Its primary superpower is inhibiting specific enzymes (like lipoxygenase) that drive inflammation and oxidation in the body. By keeping these enzymes in check, NDGA helps reduce the cellular damage linked to aging and metabolic imbalance. While research is ongoing, it is currently popular in the fitness community for its potential to support healthy fat oxidation and maintain cellular energy efficiency.

Natural Food Sources

NDGA is not found in common produce like apples or spinach; it is specific to the Larrea genus of plants.

Food	Amount	% DV
Creosote Bush Leaves	~500mg	N/A
Chaparral (Dried)	~400mg	N/A
Larrea Tridentata Extract	Concentrated	N/A

Supplementation

Dosage: There is no official RDA. Standard supplements typically offer 250mg to 500mg daily. Usage: Because natural food sources are limited to specific desert plants, supplementation is the most viable way to consume NDGA. Always choose a reputable brand that standardizes the extract.

Top Food Sources

Creosote Bush Leaves

Primary natural source, not typically eaten raw

Chaparral Tea

Traditional use, carries safety risks

NDGA Supplement

Safest method of consumption

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Chaparral is the raw plant, which carries a higher risk of liver toxicity. NDGA is the isolated, purified compound often found in refined supplements.

Likely not. It is found almost exclusively in the creosote bush, which is not a standard food item. You would need to take a supplement.

It may support metabolic health and fat oxidation, but it is not a magic weight loss pill. It should be combined with diet and exercise.

Due to potential liver strain, it is recommended to cycle NDGA (e.g., 8 weeks on, 2 weeks off) rather than taking it continuously every day.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety First

CRITICAL WARNING: While NDGA is a natural compound, 'Natural' does not always mean 'Safe.'

Liver Toxicity: High doses or prolonged use of Chaparral (the plant source) have been linked to liver damage. Stick to purified NDGA extracts rather than raw herb.
Kidney Irritation: Can act as a diuretic; ensure adequate water intake.
Who Should Avoid: Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals with liver or kidney conditions should avoid NDGA unless prescribed by a doctor.

Scientific References

[1]Larrea tridentata: A review of its botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology.
[2]Antioxidant properties of Nordihydrocapsaicinguaiaretic acid in lipid peroxidation.
[3]NDGA and its effects on insulin signaling pathways.