Get To Know Fulvic Acid, A Supplement Believed To Stimulate Immune And Brain Health

Illustration about the functions and benefits of fulvic acid for health (Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich)

YOGYAKARTA – Since last year, fulvic acid has been widely discussed on social media. This is because Hollywood celebrity Kelly Jenner is taking certain supplements that contain fulvic acid.

Fulvic acid is popular for many reasons, it is believed to stimulate immunity and brain health. Quoting Healthline, Friday, June 17, fulvic acid is a product of decomposition and is formed through geochemical and biological reactions, such as the breakdown of food in a compost heap. This acid can be extracted from compost, soil, and other substances for processing into supplements.

Another supplement that both contains fulvic acid is called shilajit. The difference is, shilajit supplements are secreted by rocks in certain mountains around the world, including the Himalayas, which are very high in fulvic acid. Commonly also known as mineral pitch, mumie, mumijo, and vegetable asphalt. Shilajit is dark brown in color and contains 15-20 percent fulvic acid. It also contains small amounts of minerals and metabolites of fungal origin.

Supplements containing fulvic acid, such as shilajit, have been used therapeutically for centuries. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and digestive and nervous disorders. They also use this supplement to stimulate the immune system and improve body performance.

Illustration about the functions and benefits of fulvic acid for health (Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich)

Fulvic acid is believed to be responsible for many properties. Usually, these supplements are produced in liquid or capsule form in combination with other minerals such as magnesium and amino acids.

In a number of studies, fulvic acid can reduce inflammation due to its antioxidant properties. This research shows that the body can increase its defense against disease. Although new laboratory testing has been carried out on animals, it has shown antioxidant activity to work effectively in increasing immunity.

Another study involved 20 people living with HIV. Found that taking supplements containing varying doses of fulvic acid, in combination with traditional antiretroviral drugs, could improve health compared to antiretroviral drugs alone.

However, it should be noted clinically that the positive effects will vary. So it is necessary to conduct further studies regarding the use, dosage, and types. It is also important to understand that taking one supplement does not cure or prevent disease. Well, to maintain immunity, it is still necessary to have a healthy lifestyle and prevent other factors that can help the body survive attacks from viruses, bacteria, pathogens, and toxins.