Perfusia-SR® 120 Vegetarian Capsules

Perfusia-SR by Thorne Research is a sustained-release form of L-arganine, a semi-essential amino acid that has been shown to promote cardiovascular health. Thorne Research designed this L-arginine supplement to support wound healing, immune function and heart health. Possibly the most important feature of this amino acid is that is serves as a precursor to nitric oxide.

The Role of Nitric Oxide

Once L-arginine is converted by the vascular endothelium to nitric oxide, it starts helping the endothelial cells (inner layers of the arteries) to become more resistant to damage caused by oxidation. This reduces the chance of harmful substances sticking the endothelial wall. Many studies have shown that people who produce adequate amounts of nitric oxide are more likely to maintain good cardiovascular health than those who have low levels. In the absence of adequate L-arginine (and the subsequent nitric oxide), arteries may become restricted, which can prevent blood from flowing properly throughout the body – especially to organs and extremities.

Furthermore, a double-blind study illustrated that men with high nitric oxide metabolism are less likely to have reproductive health issues than those with low levels.

Adequate L-arginine intake promotes:

• Relaxed arteries which result in better blood flow and normalized blood pressure
• Better overall heart health
• Erections that occur naturally in the normal course of intimacy

Like many other amino acids, L-arginine is a building block of protein, but unlike the others, L-arginine has also been shown to expedite wound healing. Studies have shown that supplementing with L-arginine shortens healing time and strengthens the damaged tissue. In addition to cardiovascular health and wound healing, L-arginine is involved in many areas of metabolism and physiology. It helps regulate the flow of neurotransmitter chemicals growth hormone, insulin and glucagon (which raises blood sugar) and has an impact on endocrine function.

The Thorne Research Difference

Generally, L-arganine is absorbed and metabolized very quickly, which means that you would need to take many capsules throughout the day to keep your levels steady. However, Thorne Research has formulated its L-arginine to be released slowly so that optimal levels are maintained for hours. With Thorne’s Perfusia-SR product, you only need to take a dose two times per day to achieve the best potency.

In addition to the studies done on L-arganine and nitric oxide, studies on Perfusia-SR have illustrated an increased flow of blood to the heart and extremities. Similar studies show that Perfusia-SR is effective at normalizing blood pressure and improving elasticity of the arteries. One study showed an improvement in the blood flow of heart patients taking Perfusia-SR, so it is not only preventative, it can also have an impact on a less than healthy heart.