Arginine malate is a compound formed from the amino acid L-arginine and malic acid. Its use for supporting or treating lack of energy primarily stems from the physiological roles of its two components. L-arginine is known as a precursor to nitric oxide (NO), which can promote vasodilation and potentially improve blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles. Malic acid is an intermediate in the citric acid (Krebs) cycle, which is central to cellular energy production (ATP synthesis).

There is some scientific evidence—mostly from small-scale studies and animal models—suggesting that arginine supplementation may acutely enhance exercise performance in some individuals by improving blood flow and reducing perceived exertion. Similarly, malic acid is sometimes supplemented for muscle fatigue (notably in fibromyalgia), though evidence is limited and often inconclusive.

However, direct studies on arginine malate specifically for energy enhancement in humans are sparse. Most clinical trials investigate L-arginine alone or in combination with other compounds, and the synergy with malic acid is not well established. Overall, the evidence supporting arginine malate for increasing energy is modest, with limited high-quality human data. Thus, while the rationale is grounded in biochemistry and preliminary research, robust clinical validation is lacking.