IngredientesHumic acid (HA) belongs to the broader class of compounds known as humic substances (HS), which also include fulvic acid (FA) and humin. Humic substances are a complex, dispersed, and heterogeneous mixture of various organic compounds synthesized from organic matter residues, decomposed by microorganisms. Most scientists indicate that humic substances are a supramolecular association of small heterogeneous molecules stabilized by weak intermolecular bonds.
Humic acid may be defined by the internationally recognized CAS number 1415-93-6. In some literature, humic acid may also be referred to as ulmic acid. CAS numbers 68514-28-3 and 68131-04-4 are also known for the potassium and sodium salts of humic acid, respectively. The potassium salt form (potassium humate) is one of the most commercially prevalent forms for both agricultural and supplemental applications.
Humic acid does not have a single, fixed chemical formula; it is a supramolecular mixture, meaning it is a large, complex assembly of many different organic molecules. The chemical signature of the pyrolysates is highly variable, with major chemical groups including carbohydrates, phenols, benzenes, and lignin phenols together accounting for 62–96% of all quantified pyrolysis products.
Several functional groups are present in humic substances, such as carboxylic, hydroxyl (phenolic and alcoholic), carbonyl, and amino groups. The substances identified in humic extracts include mono-, di- and trihydroxy acids, fatty acids, dicarboxylic acids, linear alcohols, phenolic acids, terpenoids, steroid compounds, carbohydrates, and amino acids. The functional groups that contribute most to the surface charge and reactivity of humic substances are phenolic and carboxylic groups. Humic acids behave as mixtures of dibasic acids, with a pKa value around 4 for protonation of carboxylate groups and around 8 for protonation of phenolic groups.
Humic acid is a natural resource formed by the decomposition of plants and animals, found in oceans, soils, and streams. In rivers, streams, and lakes, about 50% of the dissolved organic materials are humic acids, which affect their pH; the physical and chemical properties of water are altered and they act as natural neutralizing components by stimulating biotransformation of xenobiotics.
In terms of commercially exploited geological deposits, the richest sources of extractable humic acid are:
Humic substances include a variety of chromogenic, or pigmented, organic molecules primarily distributed in soils, rivers, oceans, and iterations of coal. They are also found in small quantities in Chaga (Inonotus obliquus), though this iteration contains almost no nitrogen in contrast to primary reservoirs of humic substances.
Such acid radicals are collectively termed "humic acids," having individual fractions named humin, humic acid, ulmic acid, and fulvic acid. Humic acids are soluble in high pH conditions with a dark brown color and can be stored for longer periods. They have high molecular weight compared to the others. Fulvic acids have a low molecular weight and appear yellow or yellowish-brown in color. Fulvic acid is the smaller, more water-soluble fraction and is frequently marketed on its own for "energy" or "detox." Shilajit is a traditional Ayurvedic material that naturally contains fulvic acids plus minerals and dibenzo-α-pyrones.
Humic substances have found a special place in traditional systems of medicine for roughly 3,000 years in many countries, particularly India and China. Transcripts from the 'Ayurveda' and 'Siddha' systems of medicine strongly refer to the use of humic substances in treatment of various ailments. Sanskrit texts over 3,000 years old refer to shilajit, the "destroyer of weakness" (shilajit being a Sanskrit word meaning "rock-invincible"). Shilajit has likely been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Shilajit, a traditional exudate from the Himalayas in India, occurs in the form of a naturally occurring mineral substance. It has proven stimulatory, rejuvenatory, revitalizing, anti-ageing, and anti-inflammatory properties. Topical application of shilajit has proven antiseptic and analgesic properties.
The Chinese Materia Medica pharmacological compendium, the medical text of the 15th-century Ming Dynasty, reports the use of humic substances in traditional medicine. Owing to their numerous benefits, humic substances were referred to as "Wujinsan," meaning "golden medicine" in China. In Chinese traditional medicine, humic acids have been called "WU-JIN-SAN" (乌金散) since 1786. While documentation is scarce, humic acid was probably also used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for many centuries. A 16th-century Chinese physician, Li Shih-chen, described over sixty uses for humic-containing natural products such as clays and muds.
European folk healers valued peat and mud therapies for their ability to alleviate joint pain, inflammation, and skin conditions, attributing these benefits to the humic and fulvic acids present. Peat extracts have been used in therapeutic baths for the treatment of various conditions for many years. The antiseptic properties of peat were first recognized during World War I when it was applied directly onto battle wounds to prevent infection.
In 1786, the German chemist Achard first described the existence of humic substances, and by the mid-19th century, chemists like Berzelius and Sprengel had begun to study these complex molecules more thoroughly. Humic acids have also been used as anti-inflammatory agents because of their local anti-inflammatory, hyperaemic, and analgesic properties, and as a systemic treatment for anaemia and hypercholesterolaemia.
Because humic acid is a heterogeneous macromolecule rather than a single compound, its bioactivity is attributed to a constellation of structural features and functional groups rather than any single molecule. Structurally diverse, they feature groups like carboxyl, phenolic hydroxyl, quinones, ketonic carbonyls, amino, and sulfhydryl, contributing to their stability and amphiphilic nature.
The antioxidant activity of humic acids can be attributed to the abundance of phenolic hydroxyl, quinoid, and other chemical groups having a highly delocalized molecular orbital. As a result, they can donate protons, catch free radicals, and chelate reactive ions under normal physiological conditions. Moreover, being potent antioxidant and free radical catcher substances, they do not display any specific toxic activity toward cells, tissues, or organisms.
The complex structures of humic substances, rich in various functional groups, provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties. Recent studies demonstrate that humic substances can scavenge reactive oxygen species, modulate cytokine production, inhibit viral fusion, promote wound healing, and enhance gut microbiota balance. In animal models, changes in bacterial community resulting from humic acid treatment result in lower amounts of lipopolysaccharides in mouse sera, as well as lower levels of inflammatory cytokines through the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)–NF-κB pathway.
The potential of humic acid as an antiviral is intrinsic to humic substances as a functional molecular class. These negatively charged polyanionic supramolecules rely on their net negative charge to bind positively charged viral glycoproteins, which ultimately inhibits viral fusion with susceptible cell membrane receptors via a competitive inhibition mechanism. Other studies have illuminated an intracellular antiviral contribution, particularly with hepatitis B virus (HBV), HIV, and influenza A.
The main benefits in the gastrointestinal tract stem from the formation of protective barriers on the epithelial mucosa due to humic substances' colloidal properties and stimulation of mucin production. As a result, a cascade of benefits is derived within the body, reinforcing antioxidant protection responses, immunomodulation, and anti-inflammation mechanisms, as well as improving nutrient utilization efficiency. Humic acids also promoted the expression of tight junction proteins, which protect the intestinal barrier from DSS damage.
Their chelating capacity underlies detoxifying activity and heavy metal binding effects. Despite promising research, variability in composition and potential cytotoxicity under certain conditions emphasize the need for standardized extraction methods. Humic acids, by ways of fixation or solution of trace elements or change of their own toxicological parameters, may exercise influence on ecological circulation, depending on both pH and ion strength of the medium concerned. While the detoxicating action of humic acids is likely to play the major role in natural ecosystems, their effects on heavy metal ion toxicity to experimental animals were found to depend on the technique of application.
Humic substances have demonstrated positive effects on the immune system in both animals and humans. Humic acids (HAs) from oligotrophic Sphagnum magellanicum peat were found to suppress mitogen-induced production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and to stimulate the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Moreover, repeated administration of humic acids in mice was found to stimulate humoral immune responses, as indicated by a higher number of antibody-producing spleen cells and increased serum antibody titers after immunization.
Numerous in vitro studies have established the antiviral capacity of humic acid molecules to influence Human Immunodeficiency Virus Types 1 and 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2), Herpes Simplex Virus Types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), Influenza A, Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), human Cytomegalovirus (hCMV), SARS-CoV-2, and other viruses through an extracellular mechanism of action. Within the humic substance family, humic acid exhibits the greatest antiviral potential relative to its smaller sister molecule, fulvic acid, and shilajit.
Regarding SARS-CoV-2, the antiviral activity of a humic substance containing ascorbic acid, selenium, and zinc ions intended as a nutritional supplement was investigated against SARS-CoV-2 virus B1.1.7 Variant of Concern ("Alpha Variant") in a VeroE6 cell line. This combination has a significant in vitro antiviral effect at a very low concentration range of its intended active ingredients. Even picomolar concentration ranges of humic substances, Vitamin C, and Zn/Se ions in the given composition were enough to achieve 50% viral replication inhibition in the applied SARS-CoV-2 virus inhibition test.
While multiple studies conclude that humic substances exhibit no toxic features in vitro, others contend that preclinical studies are warranted to transition historical research into clinical practice. Evidence strength: Primarily preclinical (in vitro). The antiviral findings are mechanistically consistent across multiple studies, but robust human clinical trials remain absent.
Preparations of humic acids extracted from different soils by various methods and model humus substances obtained synthetically by oxidation of hydroquinone and pyrocatechin were tested for growth inhibition of representative strains of human pathogenic microorganisms using a micro serial dilution technique. Within the concentration range of ≤2,500 μg/ml, 57 of 81 natural and also the two synthetic humic acids showed antimicrobial activity with differing spectra. These substances inhibit S. epidermidis, S. aureus, Str. pyogenes, S. typhimurium, Prot. vulgaris, Ent. cloacae, Ps. aeruginosa, and C. albicans, but not Str. faecalis and E. coli. The degree of activity amounts to 2,500–1,250 μg/ml predominantly, partially 625–312 μg/ml, and can reach values of up to 39 μg/ml with synthetic hydroquinone humic acid.
Evidence strength: Primarily in vitro. Studies show selective antimicrobial spectra; the effective concentrations in some preparations are relatively high and the clinical implications in humans have not been tested in randomized trials.
Humic acids have been used to treat various diseases including diarrhea, gastritis, gastric ulcers, and colitis. In a preclinical mouse model of colitis, humic acids facilitated a regain of body weight and restoration of intestinal morphology after DSS-induced colitis; treatment altered the community of gut microbiota with more Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium; changes in bacterial community resulted in lower amounts of lipopolysaccharides in mouse sera, as well as lower levels of inflammatory cytokines through the TLR4–NF-κB pathway; and humic acids also promoted the expression of tight junction proteins, which protect the intestinal barrier.
At the human clinical level, the WH67®-R-2012 study was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial comparing the effect of humic acids (WH67®, derived from lignite) versus placebo in patients with diarrhoea-predominant IBS (IBS-D). The primary endpoint was an improvement of IBS symptoms measured with the irritable bowel syndrome severity scoring system (IBS-SSS). Secondary endpoints were improvements in quality of life (IBS-QOL), the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), and the Short Form 36 (SF-36). There was no main effect for treatment (F=1.56, p=0.221). A response to treatment was defined as an improvement of at least 50 points on the IBS-SSS: 57.9% of patients responded to humic acids and 36.8% to placebo (p=0.194, not statistically significant). In patients receiving humic acids, women were more likely to be responders than men (71.4% vs. 20.0%, p=0.045). No adverse events were reported, reflecting the very good tolerability of humic acids. Forty-six patients were recruited to participate in the study.
These findings are constrained by small sample sizes, short duration, and a focus on acute rather than chronic toxicity. Evidence strength: One small RCT in IBS-D (n=46); the primary outcome did not reach statistical significance, though a sex-stratified signal emerged. Larger confirmatory trials are needed.
Direct clinical evidence for digestive symptom improvement is thin. One preliminary study tested fulvic acid combined with probiotics for gastrointestinal disorders and found no improvement in quality-of-life scores or symptom ratings across any group, including those taking fulvic acid. The study did, however, confirm that fulvic acid intake was safe over a 12-week period.
The pharmacological properties of humic substances and products derived from them have been systematically reviewed. A positive approach has been documented through well-designed studies for the treatment of various rheumatological and other musculoskeletal diseases. Humic acids have also been used as anti-inflammatory agents because of their local anti-inflammatory, hyperaemic, and analgesic properties, and as a systemic treatment for anaemia and hypercholesterolaemia.
In cellular models, humic acid (especially when sonicated) helped preserve epithelial barrier integrity and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine production under LPS challenge. Fulvic acid has shown anti-inflammatory activity in several research settings. In human immune cells, it reduces the production of TNF-alpha, a key protein that drives inflammation, after exposure to bacterial toxins. It also lowers the output of inflammatory signaling molecules involved in pain and swelling.
Evidence strength: Preclinical (animal and in vitro) evidence is consistent. Human clinical evidence for specific inflammatory or rheumatological conditions remains limited and largely indirect.
Wound-healing percentage was significantly higher in the humic acid gel treatment group at all time points (P < 0.05). The mean number of inflammatory cells was significantly lower in the humic acid gel group than in the other groups (P < 0.001). Moreover, the number of new vascular cells and fibroblasts were significantly increased in the humic acid gel compared to the control (P < 0.001). These data confirmed that 0.5% humic acid gel accelerates wound healing, probably by anti-inflammatory effects, as well as by promoting vascular and fibroblast proliferation. Therefore, the humic acid gel may be used to improve wound care.
Evidence strength: Animal studies with some in vitro support. Topical humic acid gel (0.5%) has been studied in preclinical wound healing models; controlled human trials are lacking.
Humic acid and fulvic acid also exhibit anticancer activity by inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, while protecting healthy tissues from oxidative stress. Despite promising research, variability in composition and potential cytotoxicity under certain conditions emphasize the need for standardized extraction methods and rigorous preclinical evaluation.
Evidence strength: Entirely preclinical (in vitro and animal studies). No human clinical trial data exist for cancer treatment or prevention with humic acid as of available literature.
Their chelating capacity underlies detoxifying activity and heavy metal binding effects. The binding order of metals to humic acid in soil follows a consistent pattern: lead binds most strongly, followed by zinc and copper (roughly equal), then cadmium. This strong affinity for heavy metals is a double-edged sword — it explains both the potential detoxification benefits and the contamination risks.
Evidence strength: The chelation chemistry is well-established in environmental and materials science. Clinical evidence that oral humic acid meaningfully reduces human body burden of heavy metals is currently lacking.
Fulvic acid (one component of humic substances) comes from humic substances produced by microorganisms in soil. Traditional medicine and modern research claim it can modulate the immune system, influence the oxidative state of cells, and improve gastrointestinal function. Such discordant effects seem to result from variances in therapeutic dosages and/or the origin of the preparation. It is essential to establish safe dosing for preparations depending on their source in order to treat or prevent immune-modulatory disorders.
Evidence strength: Animal and in vitro data are suggestive; dose-dependent and source-dependent variability is a significant confounding factor. Human immunomodulatory trials are preliminary.
Humic acid is available in various forms, including leonardite-based, peat-based, compost-based, lignite-based products, and liquid solutions. These different forms offer distinct characteristics and applications. Concentrated extracts of humic acid obtained from various organic sources such as leonardite, peat, and compost constitute liquid humic acid solutions. Manufacturers typically extract these products using alkaline methods, followed by concentrating and diluting them to create liquid formulations with specific concentrations of humic acid.
For human dietary supplementation, products are sold as:
Many "humic" supplements are blends (e.g., 65% HA, 35% FA) or standardized to "total humic acids." When evaluating evidence, it is important to note whether a study used purified humic acid, fulvic acid, carbohydrate-derived fulvic acid (a standardized, synthetic analogue), or shilajit, as these are not interchangeable.
Toxicological evaluations of the blk. 333 preparation (a fulvic and humic acid combination) according to OECD guidelines were negative. The preparation was not mutagenic in vitro and showed no in vivo genotoxic activity. The NOAEL of the 90-day study was 2,000 mg/kg body weight/day — the highest dose tested. No target organs or treatment-related toxicological effects were identified.
When taken by mouth, there isn't enough reliable information to know if humic acid is safe or what the side effects might be. There isn't enough reliable information to know if humic acid is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding.
Low molecular weight, nitrogen-rich contaminants trapped in wastewater humic acid samples were found to be potentially responsible for observed mutagenicity in one study. On the other hand, peat-derived samples were not mutagenic under any tested conditions, while soil-derived samples showed mutagenicity only under specific conditions of ozonation. The soil HA had a high content of metal ions known to generate mutagenic reactive oxygen species when ozonated. Thus, overall, source-specific components of humic acids contribute to different toxicological potentials.
The big variable in supplement quality is purity. Raw humic material can contain heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury), polyaromatic hydrocarbons, or microbial contaminants depending on the deposit and processing. This is particularly important given that the binding order of metals to humic acid follows a consistent pattern (lead > zinc and copper > cadmium), and this strong affinity for heavy metals is a double-edged sword — it explains both the potential detoxification benefits and the contamination risks.
Because humic acids are strong chelators and bind ions, interactions with co-administered substances are a practical concern:
There is not enough reliable information to know if humic acid is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding.
The truly molecular mechanisms of action of humic substances in the intestine and throughout the body remain unknown. Despite promising research, variability in composition and potential cytotoxicity under certain conditions emphasize the need for standardized extraction methods and rigorous preclinical evaluation. The heterogeneous, source-dependent chemical composition of humic acid preparations makes direct comparison across studies difficult and complicates the establishment of universal dosing standards.
Condiciones de salud que Ácido húmico puede ayudar a apoyar.
Humic acid is a large-molecular-weight fraction of humic substances that binds environmental toxins including heavy metals and mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract, primarily preventing their absorption and facilitating fecal excretion. Laboratory and animal studies document this binding capacity; human clinical data remain limited.
Humic acid is a natural product of organic matter decomposition with documented heavy metal binding capacity, particularly for lead, cadmium, and copper, via its carboxyl, phenol, and quinone functional groups. Both in vitro binding studies and some animal research support its use as a GI-phase metal binder in detox protocols.
Humic acid, a complex organic substance from decomposed plant matter, has been studied for adsorption of aflatoxin B1 in both in vitro and in vivo models, with research demonstrating it can efficiently remove AFB1 and ameliorate AFB1-induced hepatic injury through enhanced gut barrier function. It is used in commercial mycotoxin binder formulas as a general-purpose mycotoxin adsorbent, particularly for Aspergillus aflatoxins.
Sistemas corporales que Ácido húmico puede ayudar a apoyar.
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