Fulvic acid is the primary component of many products you may have found on social media, health stores, and herbal websites. These products have gained significant popularity over recent years for several reasons. This article discusses this acid, its uses, benefits, side effects, and dosage. What is Fulvic Acid? The primary question most people ask is: What is fulvic acid? This acid is a complex humic substance that naturally occurs when compounds in soils, marine sediments, sewage, and compost decompose. Its formation occurs through biological and geochemical reactions, including the breakdown of waste food in a compost pit. Experts extract it from various substances, including soil and compost, to make a fulvic acid supplement. How Does It Differ from Shilajit? Shilajit fulvic acid is also popular in many supplements on the current market. This acid comes from shilajit, which some mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, secrete. Other names for it include vegetable asphalt, mumijo, mineral pitch, and mumie. So, this acid differs from shilajit because the former is the latter’s component. Some people believe that the acid is the reason for numerous shilajit health and medical benefits. It forms 15-20 percent of the blackish-brown shilajit. People have used shilajit therapeutically for many years, and it’s a critical component of Ayurvedic medicine. Some illnesses it treats include altitude sickness, diabetes, heart ailments, asthma, and nervous and digestive disorders. How Does It Work? The next question you’ll likely ask is, What is fulvic acid used for? Over the years, humans have benefited from various fulvic acid uses due to its medicinal properties. This acid can prevent body reactions that may cause allergy symptoms and interrupt steps that worsen brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Also, it may slow down or prevent swelling and cancer growth. Humic and fulvic acid helps the body absorb and use nutrients better. For instance, it enables the body to absorb and utilize antioxidants, probiotics, minerals, and fatty acids. It improves how the cells take up electrolytes and antioxidants. Both substances stimulate the immune system and can treat viral infections, including swine flu, avian flu, and influenza. Medical experts use these substances to make medicine. Uses & Effectiveness Although people have used humic fulvic acid for centuries, there’s insufficient evidence to conclude its effectiveness. Here are some of the ways people use this acid. Detoxication Some people believe this acid binds to some toxins, facilitating body detoxification. Combining fulvic with other detoxification substances enables the body to remove toxins, including heavy metals. Enhancing Brain Health While further research is necessary, some researchers suggest this acid has neuroprotective benefits. It supports the overall brain health and memory. That’s why it helps with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Hay Fever Early studies reveal that taking this acid for seven days can reduce allergic reactions in people with pollen allergy. Eczema Some studies reveal that applying this acid to the skin twice daily for four weeks can improve eczema symptoms. Cancer Early research indicates this acid may slow down or prevent swelling and cancer growth. It optimizes cellular functions, enhancing optimal cell function and waste removal. Supporting Gut Health This acid supports the microbiome while nourishing the gut. Therefore, people experience less bloating and improved digestion when they take it. Moreover, it facilitates the absorption of minerals like magnesium and potassium, improving digestion and helping the muscles to relax and contract to facilitate efficient food movement in the digestive tract. Improving the Immune Function The gut forms more than 70% of the human’s immune system. Taking this acid strengthens the gut and immunity. Thus, it improves the body’s natural defense against diseases. Also, it has immune modulator effects, enabling the body to balance the functions of the immune system. Side Effects So, what are the dangers of fulvic acid? Although research is underway, moderate doses of this acid are safe. Early research shows that taking 0.5 ounces or 15 mL has no side effects. However, higher doses have mild adverse effects, including sore throat, headaches, and diarrhea. Potential benefits of Fulvic Acid Besides the above uses, people have reported the following benefits after using this acid. Lowering bad cholesterol level Improving muscle strength Fighting free radicals Reducing inflammation Slowing down aging While people associate this acid with many benefits, further research is necessary to prove them. Precautions This acid might increase the immune system’s activity. Therefore, it may worsen autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Also, there is insufficient information to determine whether using it when pregnant and breastfeeding is safe. Therefore, experts recommend avoiding it when pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from an autoimmune disease. Conclusion People take fulvic acid foods and supplements to treat various conditions. Preliminary research shows that this acid may have numerous benefits. However, further human studies are necessary to determine its effectiveness, correct dosage, and safety. Therefore, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider before using it for any condition.