Fulvic acid is a humic substance that has been used for approximately 3000 years in traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda). The substance called Shilajit, a tarry secretion from the Himalayas, contains about 15-20% fulvic acid and is used for medicinal purposes. (1,2) According to ancient texts, Shilajit has immunomodulatory, antioxidant, diuretic, blood pressure-lowering, and hypoglycemic effects. When applied externally, it exhibits antiseptic and analgesic properties. (3,4)
Fulvic acids are formed during the millennial decomposition processes of plants and contain important minerals in a readily absorbable and biologically available form for our bodies. These plant-derived macromolecules can be extracted from carbonaceous peat formed from ancient plant remains. They have potent immunostimulatory effects and help enhance the body’s defense mechanisms. (5,6) Their molecular structure allows them to exert positive effects exactly where and how they are needed. Fulvic acids can act as antioxidants and electrolytes, facilitate nutrient transport, moisturize the skin, catalyze enzymes, stimulate metabolism, improve absorption, and bind to heavy metals. They assist in the uptake of trace elements in plants by converting them into soluble forms (fulvates) that are easily accessible to organic organisms, including our bodies. Fulvic acid chelates can transport numerous active substances, and their main advantage lies in initiating various beneficial reactions. When encountering free radicals, pollutants, or toxins in the body, fulvic acid chelates bind to these harmful substances and release vitamins or trace elements in their place, neutralizing the detrimental effects. (7,8,9,10)
Most fulvic acids are found in an ionized form, meaning they conduct electricity excellently and improve the absorption of other compounds they interact with. Moreover, due to the presence of ionic minerals, fulvic acids contribute to their enhanced bioavailability in plants. (11)
Thanks to their structure and chelating properties, fulvic acids can aid in the delivery of certain nutrients, especially minerals, into cells and the removal of deeply embedded toxins from the body. Currently, the food market shows increasing interest in fulvic acids.
Recent studies highlight their interesting medical applications for regulating age-related cognitive disorders and cognitive stimulation. Fulvic acid not only demonstrates a reduction in cognitive decline but also has the potential to act as a cognitive enhancer (a “pro-cognitive” substance). It enhances cognitive functions and reduces the risk of age-related cognitive diseases. (12,13,14,15) Some studies indicate that fulvic acid possesses nootropic properties, which can help increase markers of intelligence and cognitive performance, such as working memory and the ability to learn and retain information.
Fulvic acid has been proven to increase energy levels through various mechanisms. The increase in energy starts with the mitochondria, small cell organelles that fuel our energy levels. Mitochondria are present in the nervous system, muscle tissues, brain, gastrointestinal tract, heart, and many other areas of the body. They uptake oxygen and other nutrients and convert them into energy. (16)
It has been demonstrated that fulvic acid delivers several key nutrients to mitochondria and enhances oxygen uptake. Fulvic acid helps maintain a healthy electrolyte balance within cells, promoting an increased flow of electrons used by mitochondria for energy production. (17) Fulvic acid helps prepare the body to produce more energy effectively, minimizing fatigue and leading to increased mental sharpness, physical performance, and endurance. (18)
Research has also shown that fulvic acid has antimicrobial effects, which can further aid the body’s defense against infectious diseases (19). A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in 2011 concluded that fulvic acid possesses numerous antioxidant properties (20, 21, 22). It enhances the absorption of nutrients and supplements by increasing the permeability of cell membranes. For cells to effectively take up nutrients, they require electrolytes to facilitate the flow of ions, and fulvic acid is high in electrolyte content.
Research suggests that fulvic acids, composed of very small molecules, are composed of highly active hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen molecules that can easily penetrate cell membranes. The strong charge of fulvic acid promotes the absorption of key nutrients and vitamins, both from consumed foods and dietary supplements (23, 24).
Fulvic acid has a very high ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) rating. ORAC measures the ability to absorb free radicals, and the higher the ORAC score, the greater the antioxidant capacity (25).
Studies have shown that fulvic acids potentially reduce the absorption of toxic metals, as demonstrated by the reduction of toxic heavy metals in water. One reason why fulvic acid is effective for digestion and energy levels is its ability to detoxify the body. Consumption of humic acids helps to bind and break down toxins and metals that enter the body through the diet (26).
Numerous studies have shown that fulvic acid acts as an anti-inflammatory by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory mediators from cells. Chronic inflammation is a major driving force behind many diseases. Chronic inflammation simply refers to a series of conditions that cause inflammation and persist for a long time (27).
While inflammation is a natural and healthy process in the body during acute flare-ups, chronic inflammation causes pain, discomfort, and, worst of all, increases the risk of developing a range of life-threatening diseases.
Since fulvic acid helps alleviate inflammation, it is likely to help reduce inflammation-related pains such as joint pain, arthritis, headaches, migraines, and other muscle pains as well (28, 29, 30, 31, 32).
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