Caffeine
Synopsis of caffeine
Caffeine is a naturally occurring alkaloid stimulant found in over 60 plant species, including coffee beans (Coffea arabica), tea leaves (Camellia sinensis), cacao beans (Theobroma cacao), guarana, kola nuts, and yerba mate. It is best known for its central nervous system–stimulating effects, improving alertness, focus, and physical endurance. Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world and is found in beverages, medications, weight-loss products, and sports supplements.
Caffeine’s primary actions include:
- Blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, reducing drowsiness and promoting wakefulness
- Increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity, enhancing mood and mental performance
- Stimulating the release of adrenaline, raising heart rate, metabolism, and physical energy
- Enhancing lipolysis (fat breakdown), making it popular in fat-burning and endurance supplements
Health benefits associated with caffeine include:
- Improved cognitive function, concentration, and reaction time
- Enhanced physical performance and stamina, particularly in endurance sports
- Temporary relief from headaches and migraines, especially in combination with other analgesics
- Thermogenic and appetite-suppressing effects, helpful in weight management
- Potential protection against neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s in long-term moderate use
Caffeine is commonly consumed in:
- Coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate
- Capsule or powdered supplements, often with other performance-enhancing ingredients
- OTC medications for headaches and drowsiness
Historical Use:
Caffeine-rich plants have been used for thousands of years in various cultures:
- Coffee originated in Ethiopia and spread through the Islamic world in the 15th century before reaching Europe.
- Tea has been consumed in China for over 2,000 years as a tonic, stimulant, and digestive aid.
- Guarana and yerba mate were used by Amazonian and South American tribes for energy, endurance, and ritual purposes.
- Cacao was sacred to the Aztecs and Mayans, valued for both its stimulant and mood-enhancing properties.
Today, caffeine is recognized as both a functional food ingredient and therapeutic compound, used to combat fatigue, improve performance, and support mental clarity. While generally safe in moderate doses (100–400 mg/day), high intake can lead to insomnia, jitteriness, heart palpitations, and dependency, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Caffeine is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Asthma (Scientific)
Athletic and Exercise Aids (Scientific)
Attention Deficit Disorder (Scientific)
Body Building (Scientific)
Bronchitis (Scientific)
Cellulite (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Scientific)
Circulation (to the brain) (Scientific)
Concentration (poor) (Scientific)
Congestion (bronchial) (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Scientific)
Fatigue (Scientific)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
caffeine is used to support these body systems
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Dopamine (Scientific)
Epinephrine (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Muscles (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Respiratory System (Scientific)
Senses (Scientific)
Specific Neurotransmitters (Scientific)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Scientific)
