Overview

Acacia rigidula is a shrub that grows in southwest and west Texas, as well as in the northern states of Mexico. The chemicals in Acacia rigidula might have stimulant effects, which is why it is used in some weight loss and athletic performance supplements.

Many dietary supplements that list Acacia rigidula as an ingredient have been shown to contain large amounts of the chemical phenethylamine. While phenethylamine is found in Acacia rigidula leaves naturally, the amounts found in these supplements is often greater than would be expected from the plant parts alone.

In addition to phenethylamine, many supplements listing Acacia rigidula as an ingredient have been found to contain another unlisted ingredient called beta-methylphenethylamine (BMPEA). This ingredient is a stimulant similar to amphetamine. But unlike phenethylamine, it is not found naturally in Acacia rigidula or any other known plants. In April 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that BMPEA does not meet the definition of a dietary ingredient. Therefore, any products containing BMPEA are considered misbranded.

How does it work ?

Acacia rigidula contains many different chemicals that have stimulant effects. Because of this, it is often promoted for weight loss and athletic performance. But many products listing Acacia rigidula as an ingredient also contain an amphetamine-like chemical called beta-methylphenethylamine (BMPEA).

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© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.