Ornithine is not an essential amino acid. It belongs to the urea cycle group of amino acids and is a precursor to the other two in the group, namely citrulline and arginine. The effects of these amino acids are largely similar. They induce the formation of growth hormone and are therefore used as supplements in sport training programmes, diet programmes, and for encouraging growth in children.
Ornithine helps male infertility caused by sperm motility problems. Semen contains up to 80% of this amino acid. (The problem can also be caused by e.g. zinc deficiency).
Dosage before exercise and to encourage growth:
1.5 - 2.5 g. twice daily on an empty stomach at bedtime. Maximum duration of consumption: 3 months.
Therapeutic dosage
From 1 to 10 g. daily; high dosages have been administered under strict clinical supervision.
Attention
Ornithine supplements are thought to worsen schizophrenia.
Children, pregnant or nursing women and diabetics should not consume ornithine without medical supervision.
Also read about "Amino acids generally" and "Amino acid complexes - Protein supplements".
