Extract & Compound · Vitamin

Niacin (Flush / Immediate-Release)

Provisional Strong Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Niacin (nicotinic acid) is an immediate-release form of vitamin B3 that causes temporary skin flushing due to prostaglandin D2 release. It significantly improves cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol up to 25% while increasing HDL cholesterol by 15-35%.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryExtract & Compound

GroupVitamin

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary Keywordniacin flush benefits

Niacin (Flush / Immediate-Release) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles, reducing LDL cholesterol by 15% and increasing HDL cholesterol. Niacin enhances blood flow and reduces arterial plaque. - Aids in energy metabolism by converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy, crucial for daily vitality. - Reduces inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines, which can lower the risk of chronic diseases. - Supports skin health by improving skin barrier function and reducing redness and irritation. - Enhances cognitive function by improving blood flow to the brain and supporting neurotransmitter synthesis. - Promotes detoxification by supporting liver function and reducing oxidative stress. - Supports joint health by reducing inflammation and improving mobility in conditions like arthritis.

Origin & History

Niacin (Flush / Immediate-Release) — origin

Natural habitat

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin found in foods like meat, fish, and grains. It is synthesized for supplements in immediate-release forms to manage cholesterol levels.

“Niacin was discovered in the early 20th century as a cure for pellagra, a disease caused by vitamin B3 deficiency.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Numerous RCTs have demonstrated niacin's efficacy in managing cholesterol and supporting cardiovascular health. Its role in energy metabolism is well-documented.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Essential vitamin for energy metabolism. - Found in high-protein foods and fortified grains. - Available in supplement form for targeted health benefits.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Niacin inhibits hormone-sensitive lipase in adipose tissue, reducing free fatty acid release and VLDL synthesis in the liver. It activates the GPR109A receptor (HCA2), triggering prostaglandin D2 and E2 release that causes vasodilation and the characteristic flush. Niacin also serves as a precursor to NAD+ cofactors essential for cellular energy metabolism.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Multiple randomized controlled trials demonstrate niacin's lipid-modifying effects, with studies showing 15-25% LDL reduction and 15-35% HDL increases at doses of 1-3g daily. The Coronary Drug Project (8,341 participants) found 11% reduction in all-cause mortality over 6 years. However, recent trials like HPS2-THRIVE questioned cardiovascular event reduction when combined with statins. Evidence is strongest for lipid modification rather than hard cardiovascular endpoints.

Also Known As

Nicotinic acidVitamin B3PP factorAnti-pellagra factor3-pyridinecarboxylic acidNiacinamide precursorPellagra-preventing factor

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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