Oct
Looking for a pre-workout with an active ingredient that helps with strength training? Well, geranium extract could be the way to go for you. But what is it, exactly? And how is it going to help you on your fitness journey?
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the Geranium plant, as well as all its benefits and side effects when using it in a pre-workout.
What Is Geranium?
Geranium is a species of plant belonging to the pelargonium genus native to South Africa that is known to have several health benefits. Geranium oil, to be exact, has been under the microscope for years, and experts have found that it has antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and astringent properties.
In dietary supplements of pre-workouts, for this matter, geranium is known to be a source of 1,3-dimethylamylamine (DMAA), which is often marketed in performance and weight loss supplements. DMAA is a stimulant similar to coffee. It helps athletes maintain intense focus while giving them more energy to boost exercise for longer periods of time.
Unlike caffeine, DMAA doesn’t make your energy levels dip suddenly when it works itself out of your system. Rather, it keeps you calm and relaxed while maintaining your focus. You can understand why it’s a much-loved ingredient in many pre-workouts these days. It’s helpful to keep in mind that DMAA is banned in performance sports by WADA and is only permissible for personal use. Certain countries may have more restrictions on the product, though.
What Are The Benefits Of Geranium In Pre-workout Supplements?
Geranium extract has several benefits in pre-workout supplements. Here are a few of them:
Increased Energy:
As a stimulant, geranium helps focus your mind and efforts on the exercise you are doing, which helps provide you with a quick burst of energy. This will help you feel more alert and in a state of what athletes call “optimal arousal”, where you perform at your best.
Improved Workout Performance:
Some people suggest that geranium in pre-workouts adds to enhancing the user’s overall performance by boosting endurance, strength and overall workout intensity. By helping individuals maintain extreme focus on their movements and exercises, they are able to perform at much higher levels and thus improve their overall performance.
Appetite Suppression:
It’s also suggested that geranium in pre-workouts or dietary supplements helps to suppress your appetite. This is especially helpful for individuals who are trying to lose weight or control their diets.
What Is The Recommended Dosage Of Geranium?
Dosage recommendations for geranium depend on the method you are taking it in. For the geranium oil, you should take a maximum of 15 drops of geranium per 6 spoons of carrier oil.
For a pre-workout, you should follow the dosage instructions given for that specific supplement. For example, in Jack3d Pre-Workout, you should mix 1-3 scoops with 150-350 ml of cold water and have it once a day before your workout
How Should You Take Geranium?
Geranium should be taken in a pre-workout mix with water or your favourite beverage. As the oil, it would need to be mixed with a carrier oil before use.
When Should You Take Geranium?
Geranium in a pre-workout should be taken before your daily workout. We suggest taking it 30-60 minutes before you hit the gym to give it time to process. That said, our bodies all work differently, so you’ll have to gauge when the best time is for you to take it.
Where Can I Buy Pre-Workout Supplements With Geranium In?
There are several great pre-workout supplements that have geranium as an ingredient which you can purchase. Take a look at the Power Supps site to find a few of them.
What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Geranium Supplementation?
Like any supplementation, there are always some potential side effects that we need to consider before taking it. It’s helpful to consult a healthcare professional or dietitian before using a supplement to understand how it’ll affect you. Here are some potential side effects of geranium in pre-workout supplements:
- Cardiovascular Issues: Several related heart issues are known to be common side effects of DMAA, like high blood pressure and tachycardia
- Overstimulation of the central nervous system: because DMAA is a stimulant, it can lead to overstimulation of the nervous system, which can cause anxiety or jitteriness
- Headaches
- Insomnia: It could disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to insomnia
- Overheating: In some cases, DMAA can increase your body temperature, which could make exercising uncomfortable
Final Thoughts On Geranium Do in Pre-workout Supplements
Geranium is added to pre-workouts because of its stimulating properties. It helps athletes maintain intense focus to optimise their performance. In pre-workouts, it’s the perfect ingredient to get you pumped and ready to give it your all.