Ornithine is involved in the production of polyamines (growth hormone) and other compounds that promote the growth of all body tissues by including muscle.  Ornithine can be used for wounds and other conditions that require repair of tissue.  By stimulating growth hormone, ornithine promotes the metabolism of body fat.  Thus ornithine has become a popular supplement for individuals who wish to lose weight.  Ornithine enhances the activity of the thymus; the gland that produces T cells for the immune system.  T cells are important for anti-viral (like HIV) and anti-cancer activity.

Ornithine can be used for many health conditions in addition to the ones mentioned above.  They include high cholesterol, liver detoxification, aging and skin damage.  Ornithine, arginine and carnitine are used by those who wish to increase their athletic performance.

The biologically active form of ornithine is L-ornithine.  It is commonly found as a powder or in capsules.  It is often combined with arginine and carnitine for increasing the production of growth hormone and metabolizing fats.  All amino acids are best taken on an empty stomach.   If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, take it with an amino acid complex to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids.

Pregnant or nursing women and children should not use ornithine.  Do not use ornithine if you have schizophrenia.