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Oxygold Fulvic Acid

Also known as: Fulvic acid, Oxifulvic acid, Carbohydrate-derived fulvic acid, CHD-FvA

Overview

Fulvic acid is a complex mixture of organic acids formed by the microbial degradation of plant matter, found in soil, peat, and aquatic environments. It is a fraction of humic substances and is used as a dietary supplement. It is purported to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and enhance antioxidant defenses. Fulvic acid acts as an immune modulator, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agent, with potential effects on redox balance and gut microbiota. Research is emerging but limited, with most studies being preclinical (in vitro and animal models) and only a few human clinical trials. Evidence includes pilot clinical trials and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with small sample sizes. Systematic reviews highlight promising but preliminary findings.

Benefits

Fulvic acid has several potential benefits. It exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, reducing proinflammatory markers and inflammation, comparable to low-dose hydrocortisone in human allergen challenge studies. It also modulates the immune system, enhancing immune defenses and potentially improving disease resistance, as shown in animal and in vitro studies. Topical application of carbohydrate-derived fulvic acid has significantly reduced eczema rash in a randomized clinical trial. Additionally, fulvic acid demonstrates antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress and potentially inducing apoptosis in hepatic cancer cell lines. It may also influence the microbiome and improve gut function, although human data are limited. In a small study of HIV patients, shilajit (rich in fulvic acid) combined with antiretroviral therapy improved symptoms and reduced side effects. Clinical trials are limited and small; one pilot study showed wheal and flare size reduction similar to 1% hydrocortisone. Effects have been observed in short-term studies (days to weeks), but long-term efficacy and safety are not well established.

How it works

Fulvic acid primarily works through immune modulation by decreasing proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha, and enhancing immune cell activity. It also exerts antioxidant effects through redox state modulation, scavenging free radicals. It interacts with the immune, inflammatory, and possibly gastrointestinal systems. Known molecular targets include proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress pathways, although specific molecular targets remain under investigation. Fulvic acid is water-soluble and has good bioavailability; however, detailed pharmacokinetics in humans are not well characterized.

Side effects

Fulvic acid is generally considered safe for short-term use and is well-tolerated in clinical studies up to 7 days orally and 4 weeks topically. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, may include mild diarrhea, headache, and sore throat. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, are not well documented. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, have no significant data available. Drug interactions include potential slowing of blood clotting, requiring caution with anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. It may also increase immune activity, potentially interfering with immunosuppressants. Fulvic acid can affect thyroid hormone levels and interfere with thyroid hormone therapy. Caution is advised in patients on blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or thyroid hormone replacement. Limited data are available for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or patients with chronic diseases.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose of fulvic acid is not well established. Pilot studies have used topical concentrations around 4.5% (w/w), and oral doses vary widely. There is no consensus on optimal dosage ranges, with doses in studies ranging from topical application to oral supplementation in grams (e.g., shilajit up to 9,000 mg/day). A maximum safe dose is not defined, and safety beyond short-term use is unclear. Short-term use appears safe, but long-term effects are unknown. Topical forms are used for skin conditions, while oral forms are used for systemic effects. Water solubility aids absorption, but co-administration with other nutrients or medications may affect bioavailability. No specific cofactors are required.

FAQs

Is fulvic acid safe for long-term use?

Current evidence supports short-term safety; however, long-term safety data are lacking. More research is needed to determine the safety of prolonged use.

Can fulvic acid cure or prevent diseases?

No, fulvic acid may support immune function and reduce inflammation but is not a cure or preventive for diseases. It should be used as a supplement, not a replacement for medical treatment.

When should fulvic acid be taken?

Timing is flexible; there are no specific recommendations due to limited data. It can be taken with or without food, depending on individual tolerance.

Are there any drug interactions?

Yes, particularly with blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and thyroid medications. Consult with a healthcare provider before use if taking any medications.

Does fulvic acid affect thyroid function?

Yes, it can alter thyroid hormone levels and may interfere with thyroid therapy. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended if taking fulvic acid.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6151376/ – This review highlights fulvic acid's immune modulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, supported by animal and limited human studies. A pilot clinical trial showed topical fulvic acid reduced eczema rash and allergen-induced skin inflammation comparable to hydrocortisone. The review calls for more rigorous clinical trials due to limited data.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fulvic-acid – This Healthline summary reviews evidence from test-tube, animal, and small human studies indicating fulvic acid's potential to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and improve symptoms in HIV patients when combined with standard therapy. It notes mixed results and the need for more research before clinical recommendations.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1320/fulvic-acid – This WebMD review provides a safety profile based on clinical use, noting mild side effects and important drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, and thyroid medications. It emphasizes caution and consultation with healthcare providers.
https://consensus.app/results/?q=Does+fulvic+acid+supplementation+affect+thyroid+hormone+levels%3F&pro=on – This source addresses the question of whether fulvic acid supplementation affects thyroid hormone levels. It indicates that fulvic acid can alter thyroid hormone levels and may interfere with thyroid therapy, suggesting that regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended if taking fulvic acid.