Yohimbine is a weight loss supplement, extracted from the bark of the Yohimbe tree found in parts of central and western Africa. Yohimbine has been shown to raise metabolic rate, which in turn helps with weight loss, controls appetite, and may ward off fatigue especially during periods of high activity.
Yohimbine works by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system to release catecholamines such as adrenaline and noradrenaline. These hormones bind to adrenergic receptors found within adipose (fat) cells to boost lipolysis, or the breakdown of fat. However, fat cells with alpha-2 receptors are less likely to mobilize fatty acids from the cell, and this anti-lipolytic effect produces that stubborn fat many struggle to lose. By blocking the alpha2 receptor with Yohimbine, the anti-lipolytic effect caused by noradrenaline binding to the alpha-2 receptors is inhibited and fatty acid liberation is increased. This means there is a boost in targeted fat-burning capabilities, especially from hard to lose areas.
While Yohimbine may still have fat burning potential when taken in isolation, it works best when implemented with a proper diet and exercise routine.