The importance of the amino acid histidine lies in the fact that the body uses it to manufacture histamine, and histamine is responsible for a wide range of physiological processes. It is common knowledge that histamines cause the swelling and reddening in many inflammations and allergic reactions. Doctors therefore often prescribe antihistamines in the treatment of inflammations and infections, as well as allergies.

Less known is the important role, histamines play in sexual functions. By and large it is histamines that regulate ejaculations and orgasms. Men suffering from premature ejaculations often show increased histamine activity. They may be helped by an amino acid which counteracts the formation of histamine from histidine, or the activity of histamine, namely methionine.

Contrarily, men and women having difficulties achieving orgasms may be helped by histidine supplementation, as this may result in increased histamine levels in the sexual tract, which in turn may make orgasms and ejaculations easier. Older men who experience a slow down in sexual response may also ask their doctors about histidine supplementation.

An additional pro-sexual effect of histidine may lay in its vasodilating effect, thus making blood flow to the sex organs easier.

Apart from its sexual functions, histidine is involved in many other physiological processes. It is necessary for the production of red and white blood cells and supports the activity of suppressor T cells.

Histidine is used as a supplement for sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis, since it has been shown that in these patients, histidine levels are low. And last not least, histidine is, like many other amino acids, important for growth and general tissue repair.