El Jefe Pre Workout Review (ASC Supplements)

Xtremis Cartel, formally ASC, is here to show everyone how it is done. This is the newest version of their hard-hitting El Jefe with even more extremeness. 

I recommend this to those looking for a hardcore, high-stimulant pre-workout that is the goat for being a jack of all trades!

Thank you, Xtremis Cartel, for sending this full product for review! 

Where to Buy El Jefe Soldado Series

You can buy El Jefe Soldado Series from the following retailers:

• Nutri Cartel
  • LIFTVAULT = 15% off
• Supps Central
  • LIFTVAULT15 = 15% off
• Supp Kingz
  • LIFTVAULT15 = 15% off 

Experience

After 8 minutes, the beta-alanine started to make its way to my ears and across my brow line. The intensity grew from a level of 3 to 6 in 30 minutes. After the first 5 minutes, I started feeling energy; I almost immediately thought I needed to take an extra breath. Afterward, my breathing improved. 20 minutes in, my heart rate increased slightly while I felt eager to work out. 

The tingling sensation worked its way down my back as it grew in intensity across my forehead and the crown of my head. At 25 minutes, a seemingly tail-light focus emerged. By 35 minutes, the two forms of yohimbine felt like they took center stage, causing activation across my chest but no jitters. Around 40 minutes, the whole package for energy, tingles, intensity, and focus came together. 

While doing any warm-up sets or cardio, I felt driven and without distractions. After warming up, I started hitting the weights, performing high intensity with every exercise and endurance. It was very thermogenic, with sweat over my entire body. A male genital sensation was also present, typically a sign of the real DMHA or other illicit ingredients. The pumps were complete and solid, with no skin splitting as expected due to the higher stimulants. The vascularity appeared under load, showing throughout the muscles being trained.

Mind-muscle connection, maximum contraction, mucus clearing, improved breathing, accelerated recovery from sets, strength, good focus, fullness of pumps, solid vascularity, and endurance are what El Jefe brought to my training. 

Side Effects

I didn’t experience any effects that were negative while using this product.

Flavor

“Sour Gummy Bear” was the flavor I was sent for review. It had an excellent, tasty flavor, smooth with some sourness. Flavor ratings are subjective and don’t impact the product’s rating, but I hope to help gauge how sour a taste might be. The flavor desirability was about 8/10. The suggested amount of water was 8-14 ounces, but less was more for me. I enjoyed around 10 ounces of water, as the flavor was perfect at this ratio. 

Dose/Scoop Size

The serving size is 11.35 grams for each serving/scoop, a level scoop flush with the middle of the handle below the lip. I shake my supplements before using them, especially the first time. This can cause aeration, making the powder fluff and causing scoops to measure slightly differently. 

Since this is a high-stimulant-based product, you should be weighing them out until you assess your tolerance. I used a full 2-scoop serving each use, which hit precisely how I needed it and adequately for this product review. We have 20 servings at max dosage, the current market standard. The mixability was good, with a small amount of sediment toward the end of the shaker, but a swirl and gulp will take care of it. 

Ingredients

This is an excellently stacked label and formulation, with no remarks from me. The effectiveness was excellent for the formulation being so efficiently dosed. The breakdown below is for two servings. 

Chloride – 300 mg

Chloride is often overlooked in electrolyte discussions, but it’s an essential member of the electrolyte family. Chloride is the body’s most abundant anion (negatively charged atom or molecule) and is critical in keeping us alive. 

Chloride is necessary for basic and complex breathing processes, digesting food, fighting disease, balancing cell fluid, and more. Chloride is crucial to any electrolyte mix because the body loses it through sweat.

Sodium – 180 mg

Sodium is the most critical electrolyte since it is readily lost through sweating. Sodium dosage depends on which source you look at, but all electrolyte products contain various amounts ranging from 50 mg to 1g (as seen in LMNT). The proper dosage depends on your unique needs, diet, exercise, and nutrition, which is affected by previous medical history (i.e., hypertension). This is a lower dosage, but I enjoy adding sodium to my pre-workouts when I am not reviewing them. However, sodium affects the taste and isn’t desired by all users.

L-Citrulline – 8 g

L-citrulline is one of the most common pre-workout ingredients. Extensive evidence supports its ability to increase nitric oxide production, power output, pumps, blood flow, and endurance. It is typical for this ingredient to contain malic acid mixed in a 2:1 ratio per the clinical studies if disclosed. Malic acid has some benefits similar to beta-alanine, and these ingredients aren’t in a chemical bond, some products may list malic acid as a separate ingredient. 

You want four to six grams of pure l-citrulline for proper clinical dosage. If the ratio on the label is 2:1, a 6-gram dose would contain close to 3.96 grams. Per the clinical trials, daily supplementation is required to obtain the full benefits.

Some critical points are amino acid precursors, enhanced nitric oxide production, improved endurance, reduced muscle fatigue, cardiovascular health, and erectile dysfunction.

Beta Alanine – 4 g

Beta-alanine has been shown to support muscular endurance and act as a lactic acid buffer. Depending on the source of this ingredient, you may feel the paresthesias tingling effect. This feeling is often desirable in the sports community, as it makes you feel the intensity after ingestion. This may be negated by diet and intake of beta-alanine. 

Beta-alanine requires regular intake to be effective, akin to creatine. Daily beta-alanine supplementation of 3-4 grams is recommended to become effective, with a three to five-week loading period. Three to four grams is the recommended daily dosage for beta-alanine, putting this in the standard clinical dose range. When you consume beta-alanine, it combines with another amino acid called histidine to form carnosine. 

Carnosine is found in high muscle concentrations and is a buffer against lactic acid buildup during intense exercise. This buffering effect can delay the onset of muscle fatigue and improve exercise capacity. By increasing carnosine levels in muscles, beta-alanine helps reduce the accumulation of hydrogen ions, contributing to muscle acidity and fatigue. This allows athletes to perform at a high intensity slightly longer before experiencing fatigue.

It is not abundantly found in typical dietary sources, so it’s challenging to obtain the required amounts solely through diet. However, it is naturally present in small quantities of animal products like meat and fish.

Betaine Anhydrous – 3 g

Betaine is included to help increase your power output. However, research needs to be more consistent around this claim. The typical range for betaine is between 1.5 g and 5 g, but generally, 2.5 grams is on the high end for what is in the market. If you ingest 2 g of betaine nitrate, it would yield 1308 mg of betaine and 692 mg of nitrate. Since the clinical dose of betaine is 2.5g, you must consume around 3.9g of betaine nitrate to get the full benefits. Per the clinical trials, daily supplementation is required to obtain the full benefits.

Betaine anhydrous, often called “betaine,” is a naturally occurring compound in various foods, including beets, spinach, and whole grains. It is also used as a dietary supplement for different purposes. Betaine serves several bodily functions and has been studied for its potential benefits.

Key points about betaine anhydrous include physical performance, enhanced muscular strength and power, cognitive function, and liver health with antioxidant effects. Betaine is naturally present in various foods: beets, spinach, quinoa, and whole grains. Read more about nitrates and comparisons here.

Pink Himalayan Salt – 500 mg

Salt helps retain water, enabling you to achieve fuller muscle bellies during your workout. This can help prevent muscle spasms like a “Charlie horse” and allow for a good contraction.

500 mg is an excellent dosage for this ingredient; however, it is diet-dependent as not everyone will need higher amounts (for comparison, FSU Dyehard has 300 mg, and Hooligan Bare Knuckle has 250 mg).

It also contains essential electrolytes! More info can be found at Supplements in Review.

L-Novaline – 300 mg

L-Norvaline is a unique amino acid and a form of the BCAA valine. It is an arginase inhibitor, which helps prevent the breakdown of arginine in the body. This makes the nitric oxide production of citrulline more effective. Some sources suggest that a standard dose of L-norvaline is between 100 mg and 200 mg, or even up to 400 mg, but I need to find out how well-supported this claim is (Source). At 300 mg, El Jefe is within the typical range in other pre-workouts.

L-Novaline, also known simply as Novaline, is a synthetic amino acid that does not occur naturally in biological systems. It is an isomer of L-valine, one of the 20 standard amino acids commonly found in proteins.

AmentoPump (Selaginella Tamariscina Extract) – 200 mg

This manufactured ingredient is trademarked, and only a little information is known. 

AmentoPump is the plant essence of Selaginella tamariscina containing amentoflavone, which enhances strength directly. It has some interesting properties, ranging from increased fat breakdown to vasodilation, which may also increase the body’s ability to get nutrients into muscle cells. AmentoPump is an incredibly potent and multifunctional ingredient. It has the added benefits of improving fat loss and insulin sensitivity, making it an optimal ingredient in any pre-workout or fat burner.

Choline L-Bitartrate – 1.5 g

Choline is a focus ingredient and chlorogenic source. Compared with alpha gpc, choline bitartrate may be less effective as a nootropic.

Dosages usually range between 500 mg and  2,000 mg, with 1.5 grams being on the higher end of the market standard and should be enough to experience the benefits of choline. However, since the bioavailability is less than alpha gpc or cdp, it may be less potent.

Dimethylaminoethanolmine (DMAE) – 500 mg

DMAE is a choline molecule used to treat cognitive decline in elderly patients. It is included in pre-workouts to promote focus and feelings of well-being. Dosing guidance for performance enhancement needs to be better understood.

For reference, Chemix pre-workout contains 400 mg of DMAE, while Dark Energy and Assassin V6 contain 750 mg.

EriaPuro (N-Phenethyldimethylamine Citrate) – 500 mg

Eria Jarensis is a stimulant frequently seen alongside DMHA in high-stim pre-workouts.

500 mg is a solid dosage for this ingredient; being an exotic stimulant, it isn’t clinically studied and isn’t currently the highest on the market. The most eria jarensis I’ve ever seen in a pre-workout is 500 mg with Flame pre-workout (which is fantastic).

Theobromine – 500 mg

Theobromine is a “caffeine light” stimulant ingredient found in chocolate, some tea plants, and the kola nut. Its name means “Food of the Gods.” Greek “theo” means gods, and “broma” means food.

Some anecdotal evidence suggests that theobromine can affect mood elevation, focus, and stimulation. Most doses range from 100 to 400 mg, leaving this on the low end. It is a bitter alkaloid compound naturally found in various plants, most notably in cocoa beans used to make chocolate products. On average, a 50 g piece of dark chocolate could contain 378 mg of theobromine. It is a chemical relative of caffeine and is classified as a xanthine alkaloid. 

It is known for its stimulant effects, although its impact is generally milder than caffeine. It stimulates the central nervous system and has diuretic effects, which means it can increase urine production. It also relaxes smooth muscles, which can lead to bronchodilation and relaxation of blood vessels.

Theobromine has been studied for its potential health benefits. Some research suggests that it positively affects cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. It has also been explored for its potential role in cognitive function and mood enhancement.

Caffeine Anhydrous – 300 mg

Caffeine anhydrous is the standard form of caffeine, known for increasing energy, alertness, motivation, and mood. The caffeine content varies for each product. The 350-450 range is the typical dosage for sports supplements, and some products may contain other forms or stimulants, such as below.

Less is more, as your dependency will lead to diminishing returns as you increase your intake. The overall combination of many factors, such as sleep, when you take caffeine, diet, and nutrition, affect how much you will need.

ThinFen (Beta Phenylethlamine HCl) – 200 mg

B-phenylethylamine (Beta PEA) is a neurotransmitter that inhibits uptake and efflux (i.e., removal) of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels (2008 study). It is included in Timecop to increase focus and motivation.

This ingredient needs to be better understood and requires additional research. 200 mg is a low dose, but it is very well-balanced based on effectiveness. It is important to note that WADA bans it.

Halostachine (Halostachys Caspica) – 150 mg

Halostachine or n-methylphenylethanolamine is an alkaloid with a very similar structure to ephedrine. It is also a phenylethylamine (PEA) metabolite, a compound found in cocoa beans known for its “feel-good effects.” Halostachine acts as a beta-adrenergic receptor agonist similar to ephedrine and DMAA but has a tone-down potency. 

That being said, you need to respect its power. It is adrenergic, meaning it causes brain cells to release the neurotransmitters epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). These neurotransmitters increase energy and focus and are part of the “fight-or-flight” response.

It is classified as a sympathomimetic amine with stimulant properties. It acts on the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and bronchodilation (widening of the airways). Halostachine is structurally similar to ephedrine, a powerful and decongestant stimulant.

Caffeine Citrate – 100 mg

Caffeine citrate is a faster-acting version of caffeine when compared to caffeine anhydrous. It’s not very common in supplements. Some popular pre-workouts, like Wrecked Extreme and M2, include this ingredient.

Caffeine Citrate is usually 50% Caffeine and 50% Citric Acid, meaning the 100 mg included yields 50 mg of actual caffeine. 

Infinergy™ Di-Caffeine Malate – 100 mg

Di-caffeine malate is the extended-release version of caffeine, which usually slowly releases and adds to energy/focus later in the workout, delaying or preventing a crash depending on the formulation of stimulants in the pre-workout. Typically, 75% caffeine anhydrous and 25% malic acid, meaning 100 mg, would yield 75 mg of actual caffeine, which brings the total caffeine content to a modest 425 mg. 

Infinergy™ represents a precise combination of Caffeine and Malic Acid into an ionic bonded compound. By combining the well-established properties of Caffeine and Malic Acid, Infinergy™ offers a multi-dimensional ingredient that not only optimizes energy levels but also stimulates thermogenesis while promoting mental focus.

Synephrine HCL – 80 mg

Synephrine, or isopropylnorsynephrine, is a well-researched ingredient shown to aid in weight loss. It is a common ingredient in many reputable weight loss supplements. It may also appear on ingredient labels as bitter orange extract. You may also see iso-norsynephrine, which is also a lipolytic agent and is generally considered to be a more robust version of synephrine.

“In general, bitter orange extract alone (p-synephrine) or in combination with other herbal ingredients did not produce significant adverse events as an increase in heart rate or blood pressure or alter electrocardiographic data, serum chemistry, blood cell counts or urinalysis. p-Synephrine alone and in combination products were shown to increase resting metabolic rate and energy expenditure, and modest increases in weight loss were observed with bitter orange extract/p-synephrine-containing products when given for six to 12 weeks.” Synephrine Meta-Analysis

Synephrine also increases energy and controls appetite. A standard dosage for this ingredient would be around 50mg, but we have a highly effective dosage that I haven’t seen in a product before.

Yohimbine HCl (98%) – 3 mg

This is a popular ingredient in many supplements. It has a variety of uses and can serve as an appetite suppressant, fat burner, aphrodisiac, mood elevator, and performance and focus ingredient. Yohimbe is a tree native to central and western Africa, and the bark of the tree produces an alkaloid called yohimbine. Depending on the quality of the extract, it can be very potent, so dosing varies with different products or brands. 

This isn’t to be confused with alpha yo (rauwolfia vomitoria extract). Some individuals are more susceptible to alpha yohimbine and avoid any pre-workout with it outright. Common adverse side effects include anxiety, headaches, sweating, frequent urination, and increased blood pressure.

Alpha Yohimbine (Rauwolscine Vomitoria) – 2 mg

“Alpha yo” is a “love it or hate it” stimulant. Some individuals are susceptible to alpha yohimbine and avoid any pre-workout with it outright. Common adverse side effects include anxiety, headaches, sweating, frequent urination, and increased blood pressure.

If you are sensitive to the effects of Alpha Yo, I’d suggest starting with a smaller serving size to assess if the results are too strong for you. Dosages can range from 0.5 to 3 mg, with the ladder being very potent.

Rauwolfia vomitoria is a plant native to West and Central Africa. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family and has a long history of traditional medicinal use by indigenous peoples in the regions where it grows. The plant is also known by various names, including “African serpentwood” and “kouayang.” 

The plant contains several alkaloids, including reserpine, ajmaline, and serpentine. Reserpine, in particular, is a well-known compound found in Rauwolfia vomitoria and has been used to treat high blood pressure and certain mental disorders. The alkaloids in Rauwolfia vomitoria have been investigated for their potential antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties, among other effects.

Bioperine – 10 mg

Black pepper extract, or bioperine, is a patented ingredient that increases the bioavailability of nutritional supplements. In other words, it helps your body absorb more of the ingredients in the product, which allows the effectiveness of the ingredients. As the serving size increases, so does the need for a digestion aid. Typically, you only find it dosed at 5 mg, but we are oddly given double the dosage, which can only be good.

Bioperine is a trademarked name for a patented extract of black pepper (Piper nigrum) standardized to contain a high concentration of piperine. Piperine is the active component responsible for black pepper’s intense and spicy flavor. It primarily enhances the body’s bioavailability of various nutrients and substances. It achieves this by inhibiting certain digestive and liver enzymes that break down these compounds, allowing them to remain in the bloodstream for extended periods and be more effectively absorbed.