The amino acids that the body cannot produce, and need to be taken in through the diet, are called essential. Histidine is one of these essential amino acids. It is important for the growth and repair of several body tissues. In the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), this amino protects the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibres.

If this protective sheath degenerates a "shorting out" of the message occurs and the signal never gets to the appropriate part of the body. This is what happens in the disease of multiple sclerosis.

The Role of Histidine In Your Body

This amino acid helps to manufacture red and white blood cells in the bone marrow. Red blood cells are oxygen-carrying cells. The medical term for a lack of oxygen-carrying ability is anemia and it results in fatigue. White blood cells are part of your immune system. They protect your body from harmful microorganisms (infection) and monitor your cells to eliminate those that work improperly.

Health Benefits of Histidine

Histamine is a chemical that is derived from this amino acid. It is well known as the cause of allergic symptoms like a runny nose and itchy, watery eyes. However, histamine is necessary for certain bodily functions like the production of stomach acid and sexual arousal and pleasure. 

Histidine can be supplemented for the following conditions: 

  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Nerve degeneration
  • Anemia
  • Low immune functioning
  • Hypertension
  • Heavy metal toxicity
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Impotence
  • Low libido
  • Indigestion

Histidine Supplement Varieties

The biologically active form of this amino acid is L-histidine. It is found in capsules. To increase your production of histamine supplement with L-histidine, vitamin B3 and vitamin B6. Take amino acid supplements at least 1/2 hour before or after a meal to maximize their absorption. If you take an individual amino acid supplement for longer than one month, add an amino acid complex to the protocol to prevent the deficiency of other amino acids.

Potential Side Effects & Contraindications

Methionine counteracts the effect of histidine. Individuals with schizophrenia, anxiety or bipolar disorder should not use histidine.