Phosphorus

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Other names for phosphorus

Phosphate
Phosphoric Acid
Dicalcium Phosphate
Monopotassium Phosphate

Synopsis of phosphorus

Phosphorus is a vital macromineral and the second most abundant mineral in the human body, after calcium. It plays a central role in energy production, bone and tooth structure, acid-base balance, and cellular signaling. About 85% of the body’s phosphorus is stored in bones and teeth as calcium phosphate, while the rest circulates in soft tissues and cells as phosphate ions.

Phosphorus is essential for the formation of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency. It is also a core structural element in DNA and RNA, cell membranes (phospholipids), and enzymes. Dietary phosphorus is widely available in foods such as meat, dairy, nuts, legumes, grains, and some vegetables. In supplements, it appears as phosphate salts or in forms like sodium phosphate, calcium phosphate, and potassium phosphate.

In medical practice, phosphorus is used to treat or manage:

  • Hypophosphatemia (low phosphate levels), often due to malnutrition, alcoholism, or refeeding syndrome
  • Osteomalacia and rickets, when associated with phosphorus deficiency
  • Bone support in specific metabolic disorders
  • Kidney conditions, where phosphorus intake is carefully monitored due to risks of hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease
  • Fatigue and weakness, especially in high-demand energy states, due to its role in ATP synthesis

However, excess phosphorus—especially from food additives and soft drinks—can contribute to mineral imbalances, vascular calcification, and bone demineralization, particularly in those with impaired kidney function.

Historical Use in Medicine
Phosphorus was first discovered in 1669 by German alchemist Hennig Brand, who extracted it from urine while searching for the philosopher's stone. Its name, meaning "light-bearer," refers to its natural luminescence when exposed to oxygen. Initially a scientific curiosity, elemental phosphorus later found use in matches, fertilizers, and explosives—but also in early medicine.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, small doses of white phosphorus were used (with caution) as a stimulant, aphrodisiac, and tonic, particularly in homeopathy and eclectic medicine. However, the toxicity of elemental phosphorus, particularly its corrosive effects and potential for organ damage, made its use risky and eventually obsolete in favor of inorganic phosphate salts.

Modern nutritional science established phosphorus as a dietary essential by the early 20th century, and it became a core element in clinical nutrition, parenteral feeding, and bone support protocols. Its roles in energy metabolism, acid-base buffering, and mineral homeostasis made it indispensable in both conventional and integrative approaches to health.

Phosphorus is used for these health conditions

Osteoporosis (Scientific)

phosphorus is used to support these body systems

Blood (Scientific)
Muscles (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Skeletal System (Bones) (Scientific)
Structural System (Scientific)
Teeth (Scientific)