Humic Acid Background

Humic acid, a naturally occurring organic substance, has a rich history dating back to ancient agricultural practices[9].

Its scientific discovery can be traced to 1786 when German chemist Achard first described the existence of humic substances[9].

By the mid-19th century, chemists like Berzelius and Sprengel had begun to study these complex molecules more thoroughly[9].

In the early 20th century, a young Soviet scientist named Lydia Khristeva made an important discovery, demonstrating the biological activity of soluble humates for the first time[1].

Over the years, research on humic acids has expanded globally, with scientists from various countries contributing to our understanding of its properties and potential applications[1].

Humic Acid Systemic Applications

Humic acid demonstrates remarkable versatility in systemic applications, ranging from agricultural uses to environmental remediation[10].

In soil applications, humic acids make nutrients more available to plants, enhancing root development and overall plant growth[2].

They also play a crucial role in environmental applications by interacting with various ecotoxicants, including heavy metals, petroleum and chlorinated hydrocarbons, pesticides, and more[10].

Humic acids have shown potential in treating various viral diseases, including HIV, herpes, influenza, and even SARS-CoV-2, due to their antiviral properties[6].

Their ability to form stable complexes with heavy metals and adsorb onto mineral surfaces makes them valuable in environmental cleanup efforts[10].

Humic Acid for Brain and Cognition

Humic acid has shown promising effects on cognitive function, particularly in enhancing nutrient absorption and detoxification[3].

By improving the bioavailability of essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and vitamins B12 and D, humic acid supports optimal brain function and neurotransmitter production[3].

Its detoxifying properties help remove heavy metals and toxins, potentially reducing the risk of neurotoxicity and supporting cognitive health[3].

A study revealed that humic acid treatment significantly attenuated anxiety, depression-like behavior, and cognitive impairment triggered by colitis, suggesting neuroprotective effects[7].

Humic Acid for Eye and Vision

Humic acid has demonstrated potential benefits for eye health, particularly in the treatment of cataracts.

A study using an in vitro model assessed the protective effect of humic acid against diabetic cataract, given the paucity of available research in this area[8].

While specific results were not provided in the search results, the investigation into humic acid's potential for cataract treatment suggests promising avenues for future research.

More studies are needed to fully understand the extent of humic acid's benefits for eye health and vision.

Relevant quotes:

"No other phase of chemistry has been so much confused as that of humus..." - Waksman, from his 1938 book "Humus"[5].

"Humic acids are an excellent natural and organic way to provide plants and soil with a concentrated dose of essential nutrients, vitamins and trace elements." - HUMINTECH[10].

Relevant NCBI article quotes:

"This clinical review presents what is known about the antiviral features of humic substances (HS) to the benefit of the clinical healthcare provider." - From "Clinical review of humic acid as an antiviral: Leadup to translational applications" (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9875298/)[6].

"Findings revealed that treatment with humic acid significantly attenuated anxiety, depression-like behavior, and cognitive impairment triggered by colitis, with via modulations on the brain enzymatic antioxidants and neurochemicals." - From "The Modulatory Influence of Humic Acid on Cognitive Impairment" (https://ouci.dntb.gov.ua/en/works/4M0ArjP7/)[7].

Functions supported or stimulated:

1. Nutrient availability enhancement[2]

2. Antiviral activity[6]

3. Detoxification[3]

4. Anti-inflammatory effects[3]

5. Soil improvement[2]

Related benefits:

1. Improved plant growth and root development[2]

2. Enhanced cognitive function[3]

3. Potential treatment for viral diseases[6]

4. Environmental remediation[10]

5. Possible cataract prevention[8]

Source Information:

Humic acid is not derived from a single plant species but is found in soil, peat, coal, and many upland streams, dystrophic lakes, and ocean water[9]. The best source of humic acids is Leonardite, which are sedimentation layers of soft brown coal[10].

Common names:

1. Humic substances

2. Humates

3. Soil organic matter

Citations:

[1] https://www.humicacidinc.com/history-of-humic-acids/

[2] http://www.earthgreen.com/benefitsofhumicacid

[3] https://fulvicxcell.com/blogs/news/understanding-the-effects-of-humic-acids-on-people

[4] https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2015/11/176886/eye-drops-could-clear-cataracts-using-newly-identified-chemical

[5] https://humicacid.wordpress.com/a-history-of-humic-acid-research/

[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9875298/

[7] https://ouci.dntb.gov.ua/en/works/4M0ArjP7/

[8] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387342695_The_anti-cataract_properties_of_humic_acid_on_glucose-induced_cataracts_in_goat_eye_lenses

[9] https://www.codeage.com/blogs/education/exploring-humic-acid-history-uses-and-interesting-facts

[10] https://www.humintech.com/environment/information/what-are-humic-acids

[11] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4463654/

[12] https://www.wilburellisagribusiness.com/growers-can-reap-the-benefits-of-healthy-soils-with-humic-acid/