What Are The Health Benefits of Fulvic Acid?
The natural world is one big recycling bin. When plants and animals die, microscopic organisms help the matter decompose and, in the process, produce many beneficial byproducts. When this happens in nature, these byproducts are just absorbed back into the soil and, due to their organic composition, end up providing the high energy properties normally associated with healthy soil. One of the most beneficial of these byproducts is fulvic acid.
The Positive Energy of Fulvic Acid
Fulvic acid is beneficial in part because as plants and other living things absorb high levels of fulvic acid, their biochemical reactions are sped up and become more efficient. Enzyme activity increases and cell membranes become more permeable. [1] Water is able to enter cells at an above-normal rate. This is beneficial for both plants and animals by promoting balanced hydration and allowing the body to pass unwanted toxic substances. [2]
Fulvic Acid and Toxic Metals
Ingestion of fulvic acid is known to increase the ability of a cell to release toxic metals. Australia’s Ecotoxicology Program found that when fish swam in water with fulvic acid, their aluminum toxicity levels were up to six times lower than otherwise. [3]
Fulvic Acid Supports Brain Health
Responsible dietary habits and proper nutritional supplementation are measures generally believed to support good brain health. According to the University of Chile’s International Center for Biomedicine, fulvic acid has properties that may help protect against cognitive impairment. [4]
An amazing example of this is a substance called Shilajit. Shilajit is found in the Himalayan Mountains and produced by the gradual decomposition of certain plants. Shilajit is composed mainly fulvic acid and has been identified as a compound that supports healthy brain function. [5] [6]
Sources of Fulvic Acid
Fulvic acid occurs naturally in humus, composting plant material used by nature as a way to retain moisture for the soil. For this reason, it is often called humic acid. Foods don't provide a significant source of fulvic acid, making it an important supplement you may want to include in your daily routine. Some supplements, like Global Healing's Ultimate Probiotic, include fulvic acid in an effort to help individuals receive enough through their diet.
Supplementing with Fulvic Acid
References (6)
- Strathmann TJ, Myneni SC. Effect of soil fulvic acid on nickel(II) sorption and bonding at the aqueous-boehmite (gamma-AIOOH) interface. Environ Sci Technol. 2005 Jun 1;39(11):4027-34. .
- Yang J, Jia J, Liao J, Wang Y. Removal of fulvic acid from water electrochemically using active carbon fiber electrode. Water Res. 2004 Dec;38(20):4353-60.
- Trenfield MA, Markich SJ, Ng JC, Noller B, van Dam RA. Dissolved organic carbon reduces the toxicity of aluminum to three tropical freshwater organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem. 2012 Feb;31(2):427-36. doi: 10.1002/etc.1704.
- Cornejo A, Jiménez JM, Caballero L, Melo F, Maccioni RB. Fulvic acid inhibits aggregation and promotes disassembly of tau fibrils associated with Alzheimer's disease. J Alzheimers Dis. 2011;27(1):143-53. doi: 10.3233/JAD-2011-110623.
- Carlos Carrasco-Gallardo, Leonardo Guzmán, and Ricardo B. Maccioni Shilajit: A Natural Phytocomplex with Potential Procognitive Activity. Int J Alzheimers Dis. 2012; 2012: 674142.
- Carrasco-Gallardo C, Farías GA, Fuentes P, Crespo F, Maccioni RB. Can nutraceuticals prevent Alzheimer's disease? Potential therapeutic role of a formulation containing shilajit and complex B vitamins. Arch Med Res. 2012 Nov;43(8):699-704. doi: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2012.10.010. Epub 2012 Nov 3.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
