What is Trimethylaminuria?

Trimethylaminuria (often abbreviated as TMAU) is a rare metabolic disorder sometimes called “fish odour syndrome.”

What it is

• The condition happens when the body cannot properly break down trimethylamine (TMA), a compound with a strong fishy smell.
• Normally, the liver “enzyme” FMO3 (flavin-containing monooxygenase 3) processes TMA into a non-smelly form (trimethylamine N-oxide).
• In TMAU, this “enzyme” doesn’t work properly, so TMA builds up in the body and comes out in sweat, urine, and breath.

Symptoms

• Strong, unpleasant fish-like odour (may also smell like rotten eggs, garbage, or urine, depending on the person).
• The odour can vary in intensity-sometimes mild, sometimes very strong.
• Often worsens after eating certain foods.
• No other direct physical health problems, but it can cause serious social, emotional, and psychological distress.

Causes

1. Genetic (primary TMAU): Inherited mutations in the FMO3 gene.
2. Acquired (secondary TMAU): Can develop temporarily due to liver disease, hormonal changes, gut imbalances, or diet.

Triggers (foods high in choline, lecithin, or carnitine)

• Eggs
• Red meat, liver, kidney
• Fish and shellfish (especially saltwater fish)
• Legumes (beans, soy)
• Some cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
• Foods/supplements with lecithin or choline

Management options

Symptoms can often be reduced by:

• Dietary adjustments: Limiting foods high in choline, lecithin, and carnitine.
• Probiotics / gut health: Encouraging gut bacteria that produce less TMA.
• Activated charcoal: Sometimes used to bind TMA in the gut.
• pH-balanced soaps and frequent washing: To reduce odor on skin.
• Psychological support: Because the condition often causes anxiety, depression, or isolation.

Herbal Remedy for TMAU (Dr. Sebi-Inspired)

Since the issue is mainly with liver detox + blood purification + gut balance, the formula should focus on those areas.

Core Herbs

1. Burdock Root – powerful blood purifier, helps clear toxins.
2. Yellow Dock Root – supports the liver and enhances elimination.
3. Dandelion Root & Leaf – liver, kidney, and gallbladder cleanser.
4. Chaparral – detoxifies the blood and lymph system.
5. Cascara Sagrada (small amount) – mild laxative effect to help waste leave the body.

Optional Supporting Herbs

• Elderberry – immune support, helps balance microbiome.
• Sarsaparilla root – additional blood cleanser, rich in plant minerals.
• Sea Moss & Bladderwrack – mineral restoration, supports “enzyme” function.

How to Prepare (Herbal Tea Blend)

• Burdock root – 1 tsp
• Yellow dock root – 1 tsp
• Dandelion root – 1 tsp
• Chaparral – ½ tsp
• Cascara sagrada – ½ tsp (use sparingly, not daily)

Instructions:

1. Place herbs in 4 cups of water.
2. Simmer on low for 20-30 minutes (roots take longer to release).
3. Strain and drink 1 cup, 2-3 times daily.
4. If using sea moss gel, take 1-2 tbsp daily (in smoothie or tea).

Notes & Precautions

• Chaparral is very strong – best taken in small amounts.
• Cascara sagrada should not be used daily for long periods; rotate or use only during cleansing phases.
• Always listen to the body and reduce if there’s discomfort.
• Consistency is key – long-term cleansing, not quick fixes.

This kind of herbal blood/liver cleansing formula, combined with Sebi’s alkaline food list, would help reduce odour-causing buildup and support natural detox pathways.

References

• Dr. Sebi. African Bio-Mineral Balance Nutritional Guide.
• Beckford, J. (2018). Dr. Sebi’s African Biomineral Balance: Alkaline Nutrition Guide.
• Yamazaki, H. et al. (2004). “Trimethylaminuria (Fish Odor Syndrome): A new method of diagnosis and molecular basis.” Toxicology Letters, 149(1-3), 259-265.
• Messenger, J., Clark, S., & Massick, S. (2013). “Trimethylaminuria: Causes and Diagnosis of a Socially Distressing Condition.” Clinical Medicine Insights: Case Reports, 6, 23-26.
• Chalmers, R. A. et al. (2006). “Diagnosis and management of trimethylaminuria (FMO3 deficiency) in children.” Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease, 29(1), 162-172.
• Dr. Sebi Cell Food Archives (herbal formulas for cleansing blood, liver, and digestive system).

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