: Produced in the adrenal glands and hypothalamus, it circulates in the blood at very low levels. Levels naturally rise during physical exercise or times of high salt intake. Modern Research & Potential Uses
: It is extracted from the seeds of Strophanthus gratus and the bark of the Acocanthera ouabaio tree.
Na+/K+cap N a raised to the positive power / cap K raised to the positive power QUABAIN
: Recent studies suggest low doses might protect neurons and improve cognitive function in models of Alzheimer’s disease .
While once thought to be exclusively plant-based, scientists discovered that humans and other mammals produce an version of ouabain. : Produced in the adrenal glands and hypothalamus,
: Experimental work has looked at ouabain's potential to "switch off" pain signals in peripheral neurons.
: High doses have shown an ability to inhibit the growth of certain tumor cells, including thyroid and lung cancers. Na+/K+cap N a raised to the positive power
: This sodium buildup forces the cell to retain more calcium. In heart muscle cells, this extra calcium strengthens contractions.