Humic acids: what are they and how do they affect the body? Humic acids Functions of humic acids.

Humic acids: what are they and how do they affect the body?  Humic acids Functions of humic acids.

Humic acids are the missing link of the body in the food chain - literally all foreign researchers believe so.

Today we are, indeed, not in the best environmental conditions for life. Our body lacks many minerals, vitamins, microelements, we are attacked by allergens and microbes, we are poisoned by the air of a big city, not to mention our bad habits. Today we cannot even rely on food in stores and markets. This especially applies to fruits and vegetables. Even agricultural soils for growing various crops are completely depleted. Only ancient soils rich in minerals, which are still preserved in the depths of our earth’s crust in the form of humic substance, can ensure health and longevity for humans. And with the advent of the latest biotechnologies, such soil has become available to us.

What substances does humic acid consist of?

Humic acids are large, long chains of molecules that can be isolated in the form of humate from soil layers or coal. Its important component is also fulvic acid, its properties are discussed separately.

The complex of fulvic and humic acids is a powerful combination for the healing of your body. It also has a high level of bioavailability. It contains a full range of amino acids, minerals and trace elements. These include the following substances:

  • peptides,
  • natural polysaccharides,
  • vitamins,
  • more than 20 amino acids,
  • minerals,
  • hormones,
  • sterols,
  • fatty acid,
  • ketones and polyphenols with subgroups,
  • flavones,
  • catechins,
  • flavins,
  • tannins,
  • isoflavones,
  • tocopherols,
  • quinones and others. There are about 70 useful components in total.

This polymorphic, rich structure is determined by the variety of positive biological effects of humic acid.

Facts: It has been discovered that humic acid is capable of changing the structural structure of water, turning water into “melt”. It is known that melt water has healing properties when exposed to organisms. The water that is in the tissues of a living organism has the structure of melt water.

How does humic acid affect the body?

Humic complexes have pronounced abilities to maintain chemical balance in the body. Humic acid in various situations can behave as an acceptor of its electrons or as a donor. This makes the acid in question a powerful antioxidant and free radical scavenger. After all, it is free radicals that damage the DNA molecules of our cells and protein structures, and their genetic codes are disrupted. Free radicals make it possible to develop cancer. This aspect is especially important for residents of all of Russia, since epidemiological studies revealed a significant deficiency of many antioxidants in them.

Virus activity

Humic acid shows high virus activity. Humic acid molecules envelop viruses like a “coat,” blocking their entry into cells and preventing them from multiplying. In doing so, humic acids send a signal to your immune system when an invader appears. This is what pushes your immune system to fight viruses that are in vulnerable positions due to the binding of humic acid molecules. Thanks to this, the number of viruses is reduced, and your immune system copes better with all diseases.

The inhibitory effect of humic acid is directed against the replication of the early stage virus, therefore, when using humic acids, prophylactic use is possible, especially during influenza.

Hepatoprojector and detoxifier

Humic acid is a powerful complexing agent, removing and binding heavy metals (mercury, lead, copper, zinc, cobalt, cadmium and others) from the body. Entering the human body through food and air, they can accumulate in all tissues of the body. When a certain concentration is reached, cellular mutations and severe poisoning are caused.

Heavy metals are not eliminated from the body on their own if no therapeutic measures are taken. Humic acid is actively involved in liver metabolism and acts as a filter for metals. It captures and immobilizes toxic substances, preventing them from entering into chemical reactions. The toxin is then removed from the body very easily.

Long-term use of humic acid has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the liver. Breathing is stimulated, the level of all liver enzymes is normalized, and the regeneration of damaged liver cells is accelerated.

The effect of this acid on the basic properties of blood

Humic acid at a dose of 150-300 mg per kilogram of human body weight does not affect blood coagulation, bleeding, platelet aggregation or thrombin time. Hemoglobin and red cells in our blood remain at the required level. In the presence of humic acid, red blood cells supply a sufficiently large amount of oxygen to the tissues of our body.

Manifestations of antibacterial activity

Humic acid has an established antibacterial effect on pathogenic microorganisms: St. pyogenes, St. epidermidis, St. aureus, S. Typhimurium, Ps. Aeruginosa, Prot. Vulgaris, C. albicans. They accelerate the metabolism of bacteria significantly, which leads microbial cells to complete destruction. In the intestines, humic acid neutralizes pathogenic microflora. Toxins and associated bacteria are eliminated naturally.

Enterosorption

Adsorption by humic acid has its own peculiarity. This is a complexing agent, not a mechanical enterosorbent, which acts much more intensely compared to other conventional enterosorbents. Humic acid as a result is able to remove diarrhea and many other digestive disorders much faster. Thanks to the tanning effect, the intestinal mucosa is completely thickened, its excessive secretion of tissue fluids and permeability are reduced, which helps to avoid excessive water loss during diarrhea.

Humic acid has the property of forming a thin gel film on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, which protects the body from toxins and infections. If the villus of the intestinal epithelium is inflamed or destroyed, humic acid penetrates the subepithelial tissue and promotes recovery. This is precisely why they differ from other known physical adsorbents (the following substances should be included here: silicates, clay minerals and activated carbon), which will remain unchanged on the mucous membrane. Thanks to the protective gel films, all pathological impulses are reduced along with the peripheral nerve endings of the intestine, the pain syndrome goes away, tone and normal peristalsis are restored.

Humic acid exhibits several more important properties for the human body as an enterosorbent. There are a number of experimental data showing the selective removal of excess minerals and toxins from the body when humic acids are used. This means that as a result of taking humic acids, there is no loss of essential minerals. This means that, having enterosorbent properties, there is no negative effect of humic acids on the balance of necessary and beneficial substances inside the body.

Humic acids have a wide composition of acids of organic origin. This provides additional support to the digestive tract, because they, together with enzymes, help break down food. In addition, the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the digestive tract is inhibited, beneficial microflora in the gastrointestinal tract grows significantly, the digestion of protein substances and the absorption of calcium, nutrients and microelements improves.

The immune system

A positive effect on immune reactions is another effect of humic acids on the human body. With the help of humic compounds, the number of glycoprotectors in the body is regulated, which affect the balance of B and T lymphocytes.

They also activate the release of interleukins 1 and 2, the synthesis of gamma globulins, endogenous interferon, and all this leads to improved functions of the immune system. According to medical research, humic acids also exhibit anti-cancer properties, slowing down the process of tumor formation, and suppress the effects of viruses that can cause cancer.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Humic acid has anti-inflammatory effects. It accelerates the healing of all wounds and ulcerative defects due to increased fibroblast proliferation, and also activates water, protein and fat metabolism. It also has an inhibitory effect on the synthesis of mediators and inflammation of prostaglandins. Tissue activation occurs locally, which promotes rapid wound healing. The inhibitory effects of humic acid on damaging parts of the skin, vascular walls and proteolytic enzymes have been established.

Antiatherosclerotic effect

Due to the ability to bind and recognize substances that are in excess in the body, humic acid forms and removes complexes with lipoproteins and cholesterol outside of your body, which makes them effective in combating the consequences of atherosclerosis and atherosclerosis itself.

Antiallergic effects

Humic acid reduces the sensitization of your body by actively removing and binding allergens from the body. In this case, the allergy symptoms disappear, the number of eosinophils in the blood normalizes, and a stable remission is achieved.

Anti-stress effects of glutamic acid

Humic acid regulates the actions of stress hormones produced by the adrenal glands (norepinephrine, adrenaline). Elevated levels of norepinephrine and adrenaline indicate high levels of anxiety. Humic acids block excess hormones and prevent them from reaching their receptors located in cells. Humic acid also affects the oxygen saturation of red blood cells, improves well-being and promotes a surge of strength in humans.

Glutamic acid

Glutamic acid plays a leading role in nitrogen distribution processes. Glutamic acid makes up about 25% of the total amount of all (essential and non-essential) amino acids in the human body.

Although glutamic acids are considered non-essential amino acids, it has been found that glutamic acid is essential for certain human tissues and cannot be replaced by any other amino acid.

There is an original “stock” of glutamic acids in the human body. Glutamic acids are consumed first where they are most needed, thereby ensuring the body's maximum ability to withstand negative factors and excessive physical activity.

Let's try to determine the main functions of this glutamic acid in the human body.

The main effect of glutamic acid on the human body

The main functions of glutamic acid include the following:

  • Synthesis of n-aminobenzoic acids;
  • The ability to increase the permeability of their walls in muscle cells for the penetration of potassium ions into them, which leads to the accumulation of this substance in the cells;
  • Participates in the synthesis of serotonin (through tryptophan, indirectly);
  • Participates in the synthesis of various enzymes that carry out redox reactions in the cells of the body;
  • Participates in the synthesis of c-GMP, which are mediators of mediator and hormonal signals;
  • Participates in the process of c-AMP synthesis;
  • Has the ability to convert into aminobutyric acid;
  • Participates in the process of nucleic acid synthesis;
  • Neutralizes ammonia.

The synthesis of amino acid substitutes occurs with the participation of glutamic acid. However, according to recent research, glutamic acid has the ability to convert into a number of essential amino acids, in particular arginine and histidine.

The conversion of glutamic acid into glutamine occurs when an ammonia molecule is added to it. Ammonia is a highly toxic compound formed as a by-product during nitrogen metabolism. When ammonia is added to glutamic acid, it is converted into glutamine, which is a non-toxic substance. Glutamine is also involved in the process of amino acid metabolism. Sports nutrition, which is a complex complex of substances, uses both glutamine and glutamic acid. Which of these substances is more preferable for an athlete's nutrition?

The answer is, without a doubt, obvious. Having a detoxifying effect, glutamic acid is a more preferable substance for the human body, because if it is necessary to obtain glutamine, the body can attach an ammonia molecule to it. After all, ammonia is present in the human body in excess.

The process of biosynthesis of carbohydrates from glutamic acid represents a complex backup mechanism for supplying glucose to the brain. This is important for large amounts of physical activity and a lack of carbohydrates in the diet.

Glutamic acid is also a participant in the biosynthesis of pyrimidine and purine nucleotides, which take part in the process of constructing RNA and DNA molecules. These nucleotides have a pronounced anabolic effect, which is especially important for rapidly dividing cells. For this reason, they have the greatest influence on the process of hematopoiesis, since it is the hematopoietic cells that have a rapid division process. A weaker anabolic effect is manifested in the gastrointestinal tract, and the weakest anabolic effect is on skeletal muscles.

However, even in the case of its complete absence, pyrimidine and purine nucleotides have a positive effect on increasing muscle volume. This occurs due to an improvement in the digestive capacity of the gastrointestinal tract. The highest content of pyrimidine and purine nucleotides is found in brewer's and baker's yeast. They are currently available as a separate dietary supplement.

Glutamic acid is a compound that, together with glucose, is an excellent source of brain nutrition. This is due to its ability to oxidize in mitochondria when passing through the stage of formation of ketoglutaric acid. This also leads to the release of energy, which is stored in the form of ATP.

Glutamic acid is also classified as an independent neurotransmitter in some parts of the brain and spinal cord. This is manifested by the existence of large groups of nerve cells that use glutamic acid as the only substance that transmits nerve impulses between cells. She is the main assistant in the processes of excitation. But since inhibitory neurotransmitters are also formed from this amino acid, the stimulating effect is neutralized by the calming effect, as a result of which glutamic acid does not have a pronounced stimulating effect.

Glutamic acid in brain cells is converted into GABA - gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is one of the main inhibitory neurotransmitters. GABA has a pronounced anabolic effect on the muscle tissue of the body, reduces the need of cells for oxygen - this is ensured by the activation of oxygen-free oxidation in energy substrates.

GABA can be oxidized by oxygen and oxygen-free pathways, and a large amount of energy will be released. When a person finds himself in extreme conditions - mental and nervous stress, severe infection, physical overload, low or high temperature, the need for oxygen in the brain increases significantly. As a result, the so-called aminobutyrate shunt is triggered. In this case, large amounts of glutamic acid are converted into GABA, which is oxidized in nerve cells, providing the necessary amount of energy under extreme conditions. The body's resistance to extreme conditions is determined by the presence of the required amount of energy in the nerve cells. At the same time, the body’s need for glutamic acid increases. Glutamic acid has no pronounced inhibitory or stimulating effect, however, it exhibits a significant anti-stress effect on both the central nervous system and the body as a whole. In this case, glutamic acid manifests itself as a kind of adaptogen.

Glutamic acid is also an active participant in the synthesis of adenosine monophosphate (AMP), which is subsequently converted into cyclic adenosine monophosphate (c-AMP). Most neurotransmitters (catecholamines) and hormones (primarily insulin should be included here) are characterized by the inability to penetrate into the cell; their action is limited only to the receptors of the outer part of the cell membrane. Changes in metabolism inside the cell occur with the participation of an intracellular messenger that transmits the hormonal signal - c-AMP. When exposed to receptors, c-AMP is synthesized, which triggers a chain of metabolic reactions inside the cell. Heavy physical activity leads to the body adapting to it due to the release of a significant amount of neurotransmitters and hormones into the blood. Repeated physical activity leads to increased fitness of the body, while the release of hormones and neurotransmitters is reduced as the intracellular synthesis of c-AMP increases.

This reaction is more economical, helping to “save” the body’s transmitter and hormonal reserves, protecting it from exhaustion. Thus, the transformation of glutamic acid leads to an increase in the sensitivity of cells to mediator and hormonal signals, and this in turn leads to a more accurate and adequate response to significant physical activity.

C-AMP, being an intracellular mediator of hormonal signals transmitted indirectly, increases the level of sensitivity of cells to the action of sex hormones, while stimulating their release into the blood and an increase in the content of sex hormones in muscle tissue. In this case, muscle anabolism increases.

At a time when bodybuilding did not exist, glutamic acid was used in the treatment of hereditary muscle atrophies as an anabolic agent.

Glutamic acid is also a source of GMP (gluanidine monophosphate) in the body. This substance has the property of converting into c-GMP (cyclic gluanidine monophosphate). Like c-AMP, c-GMP serves as an intracellular mediator of neurotransmitter and hormonal signals that have other properties. For example, c-GMP is an intracellular mediator of the action of acetylcholine on muscle cells.

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in the nerve cells that make up the motor centers and conducts motor impulses into the muscles. By increasing the sensitivity of muscle and nerve cells to the action of acetylcholine, muscle strength increases, and the anabolic processes of the muscle itself are activated.

Since glutamic acid takes part in the process of NAD synthesis, its energizing properties are manifested. NAD (nicotinanide adenine dinucleotide) is a specific enzyme that takes part in the process of biological oxidation. This process takes place in mitochondria. During the redox reactions of NAD, hydrogen ions and electrons are transferred.

Glutamic acid also has the ability to convert into tryptophan, an essential amino acid. A lack of nicotinic acid in the body (this is vitamin PP) causes the conversion of tryptophan into nicotinic acid, which prevents the occurrence and development of vitamin deficiency. Tryptophan synthesizes serotonin - this is a neurotransmitter of the human nervous system, which has an anabolic effect, accelerates protein synthesis in the body, and also promotes activation of the adrenal cortex, the release of glucocorticoid hormones into the blood during intense physical activity.

The effect of glutamic acid on the body is also manifested in increasing the permeability of cells to potassium ions, which leads to its accumulation in the cells of the human body. This is of particular importance for skeletal muscles, since muscle contraction requires a high level of potassium in the cells, which is ensured by the action of glutamic acid.

Hippuric acid

Benzoylglycine is the second name for hippuric acid, has the formula C6H5CONH2CH2COOH and is a compound of glycine and benzoic acid residues. It is a colorless crystalline substance with a melting point of 187.5°C. Hippuric acid is formed in the liver in humans and animals. It is excreted along with urine. The biological significance of the synthesis of this acid in the body is the process of binding benzoic acid, which is released during the destruction of aromatic compounds. Aromatic compounds are found in various plant tissues. A test for the release of hippuric acid is an indicator of the liver’s ability to neutralize toxic substances. This is how the Quick test is performed.

General information about leucine

Leucine is an amino acid that is critical in the creation of structural new protein molecules. For this reason, leucine must be contained in sufficient quantities in the human diet. Valine, leucine and isoleucine are so-called branched chain amino acids. All three of these amino acids, due to the presence of branched side chains in them, can be used by the body to obtain energy.

Leucine - amino acid features

This amino acid plays an important role in the nutrition of athletes. According to some studies, leucine and its use can have significant results. With the participation of leucine, new muscle fibers and tissues are formed, and protein synthesis also increases. At the same time, leucine helps stop the destruction of protein molecules, and this is an important component of muscle growth. This means that it is possible to reduce the protein breakdown that occurs after intense exercise by consuming enough leucine. In this case, a significantly more positive establishment of nitrogen balance will occur than during the use of placebo. With the help of leucine, other reparative processes occurring in the human body also take place.

Leucine

This element is necessary for the body to obtain energy. With the help of leucine, glucose reserves are indirectly saved and their destruction is also suppressed. This amino acid prevents catabolism that occurs in the muscles. Valine and isoleucine, amino acids that, like leucine, have branched side chains, are substrates for glucogenesis, thus exhibiting their anti-catabolic properties. It is for this reason that the combined intake of the three listed amino acids is considered the most effective.

Oxidative processes should not be considered exclusively negative. The high speed of anabolic processes that occur in muscles during exercise is ensured precisely by the oxidation of amino acids in the body. This means that when leucine is metabolized, muscle enlargement and growth occur while suppressing muscle loss.

The anabolic properties of leucine also include its ability to stimulate insulin secretion. Compared to the other two amino acids (Valine and Isoleucine), leucine has the maximum insulinogenic effect. Insulin is considered one of the most important hormones for strength athletes and bodybuilders, because it ensures the transport of amino acids and glucose into the body’s cells. This means that when the required amount of amino acids is supplied, protein synthesis is enhanced and cell growth is stimulated. An increase in insulin levels in the blood leads to a decrease in the secretion of cortisol and catecholamines, which have a pronounced catabolic effect.

With the help of cortisol - and this is its difference from insulin - the accumulation and storage of nutrients occurs, the processes of destruction of these nutrients and the release of energy occur. Cortisol has a pronounced catabolic effect on muscles. However, over the long term, elevated cortisol levels can have a negative impact on muscle fiber count. This poses a particular risk for athletes who train intensely and frequently and are on a low-carbohydrate diet. You can counteract this harmful effect by taking leucine before and immediately after training.

Alanin

Being one of the main sources of energy in the body, alanine is also responsible for nourishing the brain and central nervous system, helps strengthen the immune system, and takes part in the metabolism of acids of organic origin and sugars. Alanine is synthesized from amino acids with a branched structure (Valine, leucine and isoleucine).

Alanine is also a raw material for the body's production of glucose. This property of alanine allows us to call it one of the most important sources of energy, a regulator of the amount of sugar in a person’s blood. With a lack of carbohydrates in food and a decrease in sugar levels, muscle protein is destroyed, and the liver converts alanine into another substance - glucose. This is called the process of gluconeogenesis. This occurs to stabilize a person's blood glucose levels.

A non-essential amino acid, alpha-alanine is involved in the metabolism of organic acids and carbohydrates, and its synthesis occurs with the help of pyruvic acid. Alpha-alanine is involved in the process of detoxifying ammonia that occurs during intense physical activity.

β-aminopropionic acid, or beta-alanine, is part of coenzyme A, as well as a certain number of peptides that have biological activity. It can be found in brain tissue, where beta-alanine is in an unbound free state.

Beta-alanine has a chemical structure that is completely different from that of sex hormones. Beta-alanine prevents the sudden release of histamine, while it does not interfere with the functioning of P1 receptors. With its help, peripheral vasodilation is eliminated (this mainly applies to skin vessels), which is the cause of various autonomic reactions such as hot flashes, headaches, fever, and a feeling of warmth.

The physiological mechanism for various vasomotor reactions in the process of reducing ovarian secretion is determined by imbalances in the thermoregulation centers of the hypothalamus of neurotransmitters, and this leads to a gradual dilatation of the blood vessels of the skin. The use of the drug leads to an increase in the level of sensitivity to neurotransmitters of peripheral receptors, which are actively involved in this process.

Are there any special indications for use?

INDICATIONS:

  • To strengthen the immune system of the human body;
  • Reducing the possibility of formation of kidney stones of various nature;
  • As an adjuvant for the treatment of hypoglycemia, mitigation of recurring attacks of epilepsy;
  • As one of the most important sources of energy and nutrition of the central nervous system and brain;
  • Elimination of symptoms that are of a vegetative nature and manifest themselves in the form of hot flashes characteristic of premenopause, menopause and postmenopause;
  • Before starting hormone replacement therapy;
  • Use is possible in combination with hormone replacement therapy if this therapy is not effective enough.

Threonine

Hydroxyamino acid - threonine - is a molecule consisting of two chiral centers. It is this quality that ensures the presence of four isomers of optical properties:

  • L-threonine - 3D;
  • D-threonine - 3D;
  • L-threonine - 3L;
  • D-threonine - 3L.

Along with other 19 proteinogenic amino acids, L-threonine takes part in the formation of proteins of natural origin. Threonine is an essential amino acid for humans. The daily need for it is 0.5 g for an adult, about 3 g for a child.

Threonine is synthesized by plants and bacteria through the formation of homoserine-O-phosphate from a substance called aspartic acid.

Main functions of threonine

Being an essential polar aliphatic hydroxyamino acid, threonine takes an active part in the formation of formyltetrahydrofolic acid, used to obtain amino acids. Threonine helps maintain the necessary balance of proteins in the human body and is involved in the formation of elastin and collagen. With its participation, liver function and lipotropic function improves. Threonine increases the level of immunity by participating in the synthesis of antibodies.

Metabolism process in the body

The main metabolic processes in which threonine takes part include:

  • Participates in the tricarboxylic acid cycle during the conversion of cleavage products into acetyl-CoA;
  • When it breaks down, acetaldehyde and glycine are formed;
  • It is an integral part of the polypeptide chain, which consists of phosphoproteins, two residues are an integral part of the parahormone;
  • Found in skeletal muscles, nervous system and heart.

Glycine

Glycine is an acid that contributes to the normal development of the nervous system, and also improves the functioning of inhibitory receptors in the brain. Moreover, the use of glycine is not limited only to pharmacology; it is also used in cosmetology.

Being an aminoacetic acid, glycine is a crystalline substance and is used as a thickener and structure-forming element in cosmetic preparations used for skin care.

Glycine is also an integral part of a large number of proteins and skin compounds that have biological activity. With the participation of glycine, the process of degeneration of muscle tissue slows down, since it serves as a source of creatine - this is a substance that is found in human muscle tissue and is used in the process of RNA and DNA synthesis. Glycine is an essential element for the production of bile acids, nucleic acids, and nonessential acids in the human body.

Glycine is useful in case of damage to human skin, since glycine is found in sufficiently large quantities in connective tissue and skin, and with its participation, an improvement in blood microcirculation and blood circulation in general is observed.

The use of glycine in cosmetology

This amino acid is found in silk fibroins. Glycine is used in the soap making process, and the essence of this process is the same as the use of silk in making soap. However, it does not require alkali hydrolysis. At the same time, even 5 percent of soap is quite problematic to introduce into the resulting soap, but glycine (the same 5 percent) is introduced perfectly, and it is possible to avoid fuss with dissolution, washing and the smell of the cocoon. The result is a variety of the most pleasant sensations - a large amount of coarse foam with an extraordinary silky tactile sensation. Also, when glycine gets on the surface of the skin when included in a cosmetic product, it is moisturized, and when it penetrates into deeper layers in cells, metabolic processes improve, and cell membranes receive additional protection from the action of free radicals. As a result, there is a reduction in the processes that occur during skin aging.

Arginine

L-ARGININE, or arginine, is a protein-forming nonessential amino acid for adults, but it is essential for children. Arginine is a component of proteins, in particular progamines - about 85 percent, as well as histones. With the participation of arginine, the process of synthesis of the hormone responsible for growth and other hormones occurs.

With daily consumption of arginine in the amount of 6-17 grams, the content of LDL cholesterol decreases, while the amount of HDL cholesterol does not decrease. This amino acid is necessary for normal coronary microcirculation. This reduces the formation of blood clots that cause strokes and heart attacks.

Arginine helps increase the function of the T-cell immune component, which leads to an increase in the weight of the thymus, which is responsible for a significant part of the immune processes (about 1.5 g per day). When taking arginine and lysine together in an amount of 1 to 2 g per day, an increase in the body's immune response, activity and number of neutrophils is observed.

Proteins contained in seminal fluid are especially rich in arginine. With a lack of arginine, male infertility can develop. Arginine also takes an active part in the functioning of the genital organs, indirectly stimulating the production of testosterone in men. Also, nitric oxide has a noticeable effect on achieving and maintaining an erection, and for this reason it is possible to prescribe arginine in the treatment of impotence (within 2.5 g per day).

Also, this amino acid plays a significant role in the process of muscle metabolism - weight loss is observed, since the growth of muscle mass accelerates with a parallel decrease in adipose tissue. High concentrations of arginine are found in connective and skin tissues, which makes it possible to use it in the restoration and treatment of damaged tissues.

Participating in the process of protein synthesis, arginine is also an integral part of the urea cycle (the so-called ornithine Krebs cycle), which is considered the main pathway for neutralizing ammonia in the body.

This amino acid is converted in the body into a special substance called spermine. It is found in brain cells, blood and sperm. Low levels of this substance may cause memory loss, which may be a consequence of aging. When spermine is formed from arginine, a rather complex process occurs in which several coenzymes are involved. Let's consider a diagram of this process.

An enzyme activated by manganese participates in a reaction with arginine, resulting in the formation of the amino acid ornithine. Ornithine then reacts with vitamin B6 to form putrescine. In parallel with this, a reaction of magnesium with methionine occurs - this is another amino acid. As a result, activated methionine is formed, with the help of which putrescine is converted into spermidine. Then the conversion of spermidine to spermine occurs. This rather complex process can be significantly accelerated by taking food supplements of coenzymes and amino acids that take part in this process.

Arginine is involved in the blood supply to the extremities. Arginine is a building block for proteins, synthesized by the body from foods. Therefore, it is not surprising when it is sometimes lacking.

Beneficial features

The beneficial effects of arginine on the body include:

  • Acting as a precursor to nitric oxide, arginine dilates blood vessels and enhances their blood flow;
  • Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, which leads to a reduced risk of blood clots, and has a positive effect on blood rheology;
  • Improves the process of growth hormone synthesis, which leads to increased growth in children and adolescents;
  • Promotes an increase in muscle mass, while the content of adipose tissue decreases, and the condition of connective tissues improves;
  • Increases the level of immunity and slows down the growth of tumors;
  • The use of arginine leads to stimulation of spermatogenesis and increased potency.

Lysine

Being an aliphatic amino acid, lysine is the main basis in the construction of protein. Lysine is an essential substance for the human body, since it is responsible for the normal development of growth, the production of hormones, enzymes, antibodies, and is involved in the process of tissue repair.

The end of the 20th century was marked by the discovery by scientists of the unusual properties of L-lysine, which enable this amino acid to fight various viruses, the entry of which into the human body leads to the development of herpes and acute respiratory diseases. According to numerous studies, lysine significantly lengthens the relapse interval for various types of herpes (this also includes genital herpes).

L-lysine in the fight against the herpes virus

When the herpes virus enters the human body, it begins to actively reproduce. At the same time, he needs to use the cells of the human body. The main material for creating new viruses is the amino acid arginine.

L-lysine plays an important role in this process, since when it enters the body, arginine cells are replaced by lysine cells. These amino acids have completely identical chemical properties and structure, so the herpes virus does not distinguish between them. The growing of new viruses from lysine, and not from arginine cells, begins. As a result, there is a rapid cessation of virus development.

Severe mental stress and trauma lead to a rapid depletion of lysine reserves in our body, as a result of which the process of development of the herpes virus begins again. It is in connection with this that herpes is most often found in people who worry greatly and often, and are also nervous a lot.

Biological qualities of L-lysine

The biological properties of this substance include:

  • Helps improve erection;
  • Reduces the frequency of relapses of genital herpes;
  • Slows down the development of osteoporosis;
  • Thickens hair;
  • Prevents the appearance and development of atherosclerosis;
  • Increases female libido;
  • Improves the quality of short-term memory;
  • Promotes muscle growth - plays the role of an anabolic;
  • Increases endurance and muscle strength.

According to numerous studies, regular and long-term use of L-lysine leads to the manifestation of antidepressant properties. There is also a decrease in the frequency of headaches - migraines.

Histidine

One of the essential amino acids, histidine promotes tissue repair and growth.

This amino acid is an integral part of the myelin sheaths that protect nerve cells. Histidine is also necessary in the formation of white and red blood cells.

The effect of histidine is also manifested in protecting the body from radiation damage, participating in the removal of heavy metals from the body, and helping with AIDS infection.

With an increased content of histidine in the body, stress and various mental disorders (psychosis and agitation) may occur.

Methionine influences the reduction of histidine levels in the body.

Another important element of immunological reactions, histamine is formed from histidine.

Histamine is involved in the process of sexual arousal.

The simultaneous use of dietary supplements that contain pyridoxine, niacin and histidine, necessary in the process of histamine synthesis, is effective in the treatment of sexual disorders.

Since histamine stimulates the secretion of stomach acid, histidine helps treat digestive disorders that are associated with low stomach acid.

If a person suffers from manic-depressive disorder, the use of histidine is unacceptable. The exception is when the deficiency of a given element is clearly established.

Histidine has the following effects on the human body:

  • Regulates the functioning of the endocrine system;
  • Has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties;
  • Has an analgesic effect (reduces headaches, relieves pain associated with menstruation, diseases of the spine and joints);
  • Improves the functioning of the central nervous and peripheral systems;
  • Improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid formed in the human body from the amino acid phenylalanine.

What are the properties of this amino acid?

The main actions of tyrosine include:

  • Mood enhancement - being a precursor of neurotransmitters that have a positive effect on the emotional background, tyrosine indirectly improves and stabilizes mood;
  • Decreased appetite and decreased fat mass;
  • Participates in the formation of melanin, a pigment that is responsible for giving color to hair and skin;
  • Improves the functioning of the pituitary gland, adrenal glands, and thyroid gland. By reacting with iodine, tyrosine promotes the formation of active thyroid hormones.

Symptoms of a lack of tyrosine in the body include a feeling of heaviness in the muscles of the calves, a decrease in body temperature (a feeling of coldness in the arms and legs) and blood pressure, and suppression of thyroid function.

The use of L-tyrosine as a dietary supplement is indicated for the purpose of normalizing the functioning of the thyroid gland, reducing headaches, relieving stress, and treating nervous disorders.

Information intended for specialists

The use of L-tyrosine is justified by the fact that it is a substrate used for the production of glutamic acid, adrenaline and thyroxine. This is possible because tyrosine is a direct precursor to thyroid hormone and adrenaline.

L-tyrosine also promotes the production of growth hormone, takes part in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter from phenylalanine, and plays a role in the production of melanin. A decrease in plasma tyrosine levels is due to a decrease in thyroid function. In the absence of the required amount of tyrosine, there is a lack of norepinephrine in the brain, which leads to the occurrence of a depressive state.

Application of tyrosine

Tyrosine is used in the following situations:

  • To improve mood and counteract stress and depression;
  • In order to normalize the functioning of the thyroid gland.

Urea

Urea is intended as a dehydrating agent to reduce edema that occurs in the brain, as well as toxic edema in the lungs. Urea has the ability to lower intraocular pressure. The processes that occur when the degree of edema is reduced when using urea have not yet been sufficiently studied. There are suggestions that the osmotic effect of urea plays an important role in this. When hypertonic urea solutions are administered, the level of osmotic blood pressure increases, which leads to a significant flow of fluids from organs and tissues into the blood. Also involved in this are fluids from the brain tissue and cavities, as well as the eyes. The penetration of urea through the blood-brain barrier, as well as into the eyeball itself, is difficult. This creates a noticeable difference between the fluid of the eye and the cerebrospinal fluid and osmotic blood pressure. During the experiment, the hypotensive effect was maintained during bilateral nephrectomy. There is data that allows us to highlight the special role of central mechanisms in achieving the hypotensive effect. The central mechanisms include the effect on the osmoreceptive fields of the hypothalamus of a hypertonic solution.

Urea is used in neurosurgery - it is used to prevent and also reduce cerebral edema. It is especially effective in the early stages of edema development. In ophthalmology, urea is used in the development of glaucoma, this is especially true during an attack and in preparation for operations.

Cystine

Cystine plays a fairly important role in the formation of protein secondary structure through the creation of disulfite bridges. An example is the formation of enzymes in the digestive system and insulin.

The cystine molecule consists of two cysteine ​​molecules, which are connected to each other by a disulfite bond. Both of these substances are found in the blood, and cysteine ​​can make up about 70-100 percent. It is possible to replace cysteine ​​in food proteins with methionine. Cysteine ​​is needed for good nail and hair growth.

It contains sulfur, for this reason it has the property of binding heavy metals, which include mercury, cadmium and copper. For this reason, if poisoning with such metals occurs, this substance should be taken. With a lack of cystine, microelements important for human health are removed from the body.

Cystine is also considered an active antioxidant. When combined with vitamin E, this effect is enhanced and a synergistic effect is observed. Increased consumption of cystine is indicated for recovery after surgery, burns, cystine helps strengthen connective tissue, and cystine intake is also indicated for the development of arthritis.

Cystine synthesis can also occur in the human body, and methionine is required for this. When both substances are taken together, a significant increase in the lipotropic properties of methionine is observed. When cystine is combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in a ratio of 1:3, kidney stones can be destroyed. The solubility of cystine in water is very low, so it is not used to obtain liquid forms.

Natural sources of cystine include the following foods:

  • Corn;
  • Oats;
  • Eggs.

Cystine is a sulfur-containing amino acid, a dimer of cysteine. It is formed in proteins during the formation of disulfite bonds between cysteine ​​residues -S-S-. With the help of these bonds, the spatial structure of the protein molecule is maintained.

Being one of the most important amino acids for the human body, cystine is involved in the formation and growth of nails and hair.

Cystine is a stable form of cysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, an essential element involved in the fight against the aging process. The body converts one substance into another as needed, and the two forms should be considered as a single amino acid. During the exchange reaction, sulfuric acid is formed, and when it interacts with other compounds, the process of detoxification of all systems of the human body occurs.

With the help of cystine and cysteine, it is possible to cleanse the body of the effects of toxic metals and the destructive effects of free radicals formed when smoking and drinking alcohol.

Histidine

This amino acid, used in the synthesis of proteins, histamine and enzymes, does not have a clear definition of whether it is replaceable or essential. Scientists are currently continuing to investigate this issue. According to biochemists, histidine is an essential amino acid. If there is a lack of it in the diet, a lack of histidine in the body as a whole manifests itself. However, some proteins contain histidine, they can become a source of this substance, and for this reason, other scientists are of the view that histidine is a partially essential amino acid.

Histidine is involved in a number of important physiological processes. For example, it helps suppress glutamine synthetase, which serves as a catalyst in the process of glutamine synthesis, inhibits the breakdown of proteins and slows down the formation of nitrogen in cells. The antioxidant and anti-catabolic effects of histidine were obtained in rats. A study conducted in people observed that when histidine was excluded from the diet, there was a decrease in the total turnover of proteins in the body by 28 percent, and in the blood there was a decrease in hemoglobin levels by 11 percent and albumin by 12 percent. The data obtained allow us to conclude that histidine plays an important role in maintaining the required level of proteins in the blood and muscles.

Aspartic acid

With the help of aspartic acid, nitrogen is redistributed in the body. Glutamic acid together with aspartic acid neutralize the effect of ammonia.

The main properties when interacting with ammonia of aspartic acid include:

  • Addition of a toxic ammonia molecule to convert non-toxic asparagine;
  • Conversion of toxic ammonia into urea, which does not have toxic properties.

Aspartic acid is also characterized by entering into the gluconeogenesis reaction with conversion to glucose in the liver, which plays an important role during significant physical activity.

Also, aspartic acid is actively involved in the biosynthesis of anserine and carnosine, in the synthesis of pyrimidine and purine nucleotides.

By analogy with the glutamic amino acid, aspartic acid has the ability to enter into oxidative reactions in the mitochondria in the brain, which releases energy that is stored in the form of ATP. In general, all amino acids are a source of energy necessary for the central nervous system, but in this regard, aspartic and glutamic amino acids play a leading role. After all, they are the best sources of energy for feeding the brain.

One of the most striking features of aspartic acid is its ability to increase the permeability of cell membranes to magnesium and potassium ions. It is for this purpose that magnesium and potassium salts of aspartic acid are produced. In this case, a kind of “dragging” of magnesium and potassium aspartic acid into the cell occurs. Other amino acids do not have this property, with the exception of histamic acid, which has the ability to increase the permeability of cell membranes to potassium. In this case, aspartic acid is also included in the process of intracellular metabolism. The result is an increase in physical endurance.

The greatest positive effect of aspartic acid is on the heart muscle. To understand the positive effects of salts of this amino acid on muscles (including the heart), we need to take a closer look at the process of the sodium-potassium pump.

Every cell in the body - nerve, muscle and nerve fibers - has a membrane potential. The membrane potential is the potential difference that occurs between the intracellular and extracellular environment. In the internal environment of the cell, there is a predominance of potassium ions, in the external environment - sodium ions. Each cell has a negative charge, and its magnitude differs for each cell. But that's not what's important.

During the process of excitation of a nerve cell, potassium ions move outside the cell, and sodium ions move inside. This is how the process of depolarization of the cell membrane occurs. In an excited state, an action potential is generated and transmitted to nearby cells. For example, in this way excitation is transmitted between the cells of the nervous system and a nerve impulse is transmitted in the nerve fiber.

To enter a resting state, the cell needs potassium ions. When potassium rushes into the cell, a simultaneous transition of sodium ions into the extracellular environment occurs. This is how the cell reaches its resting potential.

This mechanism is called the “potassium-sodium pump”. If there are enough potassium ions inside the cell, the resting potential of the cell may become higher than the original one, resulting in hyperpolarization in the cell membrane. In this case, the cell becomes highly resistant to external disturbances.

Excitation of the heart muscle can occur very easily, and there are many reasons for this phenomenon. With the aging of cell membranes, which occurs with age, excitability increases even more. As a result, cardiac arrhythmias, which are uncontrolled excessive contractions of the heart muscle, are increasingly occurring, sometimes leading to death. Highly qualified athletes are most prone to cardiac arrhythmias, since their hearts are especially susceptible to the influence of norepinephrine and adrenaline. In this case, too frequent working depolarization of the membranes of heart cells occurs, which sometimes do not have time to restore their normal resting potential.

Potassium aspartate is used to restore the cell's resting potential. Magnesium aspartate is used to penetrate it into the cell.

Serin

Serine is one of the important amino acids that is used by the body to produce the necessary energy for cells. Serine, like other amino acids, supports the body's immune system. According to research by some scientists, it is useful to take serine between meals, as it increases blood glucose levels. This is especially important during competitions and increased physical activity.

Currently, the sports nutrition market offers the drug phosphatidylserine, which belongs to phosphoacylglycerols. The main effect of this drug is the transmission of nerve impulses to the brain. Since the production of this substance decreases with age, phosphatidylserine is used to improve mental performance.

During physical activity, catabolic processes in the body are activated.

An athlete can achieve maximum recovery by two methods: stimulating anabolic processes or reducing catabolism. As practice shows, the latter method is more effective. With the help of the drug phosphatidylserine, cortisol levels are reduced, and anabolic processes transition to a different level. With intravenous or oral administration of this drug, a significant decrease in the level of cortisol in the blood occurs - by about 25-30 percent.

Given these properties of phosphatidylserine, its use is indicated before training, and it should also be combined with an amino acid supplement, since the efficiency of amino acid absorption will increase.

According to experts, when using phosphatidylserine, our ideas regarding the need to load the so-called “carbohydrate” window change. In this case, there is no need for a large amount of carbohydrates to obtain glycogen.

Fophatidylserine has similar properties to phosphatidylcholine. This substance is considered a potential remedy that is part of drugs used for age-related memory impairment. This means that phosphatidylserine is a stimulant of brain processes. This substance is not directly involved in the process of nerve conduction, but its other effects have a significant impact on mental performance.

Improved brain function occurs due to increased glucose levels - this is important for ensuring normal brain function, as well as the level of cyclic AMP (this is adenosine monophosphate, which enhances nerve impulses).

Tironin

Synthetic analogues of L-thyronine are often used by bodybuilders for the reason that this hormone has a stronger effect than L-thyroxine - about 4-5 times. L-thyronine is used in medicine to treat hypofunction of the thyroid gland, in the process of combating obesity and fatigue. When taking this drug for 7-12 days, a significant decrease in body weight is already observed, even without reducing caloric intake.

The question arises: after all, active weight loss is happening, this is almost a dream achievement. What more could you ask for? But loss of necessary muscles can also occur here, because L-thyronine has an effect on protein metabolism in the body. What can be done in this case?

It is considered necessary to increase protein intake, and during the “drying” process its volume should be about 2-2.5 g per kilogram of weight. Experienced athletes have a recommendation not to limit themselves to this measure and increase the dosage of steroids. In general, a combination of strong steroids, growth hormone, insulin, and thyroid hormone is a professional’s golden formula, since taking these drugs together has a synergistic effect on the body.

To put it another way, we can say that taking them together makes each one more effective than taking each separately. Also, the negative impact of each has compensation in the form of taking other drugs. The disadvantage of insulin is the accumulation of adipose tissue. It is precisely this negative effect that L-thyronine fights. These recommendations may be useful to those bodybuilders who are ready for certain experiments to achieve serious goals.

In the case of ordinary people, taking this drug should be done carefully, very gradually and you need to carefully monitor your well-being. In the first days of use, the following side effects may occur:

· Tingling felt in the area of ​​the thyroid gland;

  • Frequent dizziness;
  • Trembling fingers;
  • Cardiopalmus;
  • Mild nausea.

Thyroid

Often, when the thyroid gland is mentioned, many people associate it with iodine deficiency and radiation, as well as with clearly bulging eyes - this is one of the main signs of the onset of Graves' disease, and women are most often affected by it. The question arises: what do these associations have to do with the process of building the body? However, currently, drugs related to thyroid hormones, which are called thyroids, are firmly included in the arsenal of many serious bodybuilders.

The point is this. The human thyroid gland produces the hormones L4 (also called L-thyroxine) and L3 (L-thyronine), which very actively influence fat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism in the body. In this case, fat metabolism is of particular importance for bodybuilders, since in preparation for upcoming competitions they solve two completely opposite problems: maintaining the maximum amount of muscle and losing more fat. And in this they are especially actively helped by thyroid hormones.

Proline

Proline is another amino acid important for the human body. It is used for the production of collagen. And collagen is necessary for the formation of strong and elastic tissues on scars; it is also the main building material of the body - skin, ligaments, tendons and bones contain collagen. It is for this reason that many multicomponent amino acid mixtures that are intended for tissue repair contain proline.

This substance is very important for the normal functioning of joints and ligaments, and takes part in strengthening and maintaining the performance of the heart muscle.

One of the proteinogenic amino acids is L-proline. Proline is also part of the proteins of the human body. Most of it is found in the main protein of connective tissue - collagen.

Proline synthesis is carried out through glutamic acid.

Being part of collagen, as well as in the presence of ascorbic acid, proline is oxidized and hydroxyproline is formed. The strength of the collagen molecule is determined by the presence of alternating hydroxyproline and proline residues in it.

The properties of proline include:

  • Helps create healthy heart muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints;
  • It is one of the main elements of collagen;
  • Helps in the restoration of damaged tissue, this is especially important when treating skin after burns.

Methionine

Being an essential amino acid, methionine is not synthesized by the human body. For this reason, the presence of methionine in food is mandatory. This substance is part of the protein in the human body, and also represents the basis of many substances necessary for health.

What compounds are formed when combined with methionine?

The body converts methionine into cysteine, a precursor to glutathione. This substance is necessary for restoring the body in case of poisoning and for neutralizing toxic substances in the liver.

Being a source of chemical elements and groups, methionine is involved in the biosynthesis of adrenaline and is considered a source of sulfur in the process of cysteine ​​biosynthesis.

Methionine is needed for the normal functioning of the human body with a possible lack of vitamin B12. Neurological disorders can occur when the formation of cysteine ​​from methionine is impaired.

Role in metabolism

Since methionine contains a group (-CH3), its role is that this mobile methyl group is transferred to other compounds. This is due to the lipotropic effect of methionine, which allows you to remove excess fat from the liver.

When donating a mobile methyl group, methionine takes part in the synthesis of choline. A lack of choline can cause disturbances in the synthesis of phospholipids from fats.

When donating a methyl group, methionine makes it possible to neutralize toxic products. Therefore, based on these properties, methionine is used in the treatment and prevention of toxic lesions and liver diseases, chronic alcoholism, and diabetes mellitus.

Thanks to methionine, the level of cholesterol in the blood is reduced and the deposition of fat in the liver is reduced, and the functioning of the liver improves.

Methionine is also used when the following conditions occur:

  • Separation and fragility of bones;
  • Cirrhosis;
  • Diabetes;
  • Atherosclerosis;
  • Deterioration of hair growth and condition;
  • Osteoarthritis;
  • Parkinson's disease;
  • Fibrocystic mastopathy;
  • Fibromyalgia;
  • Obesity;
  • Early signs and manifestations of skin aging;
  • Alcoholism.

As can be seen from the list of methionine actions, its role in maintaining human health is very important. Methionine is also used in complex therapy for toxicosis during pregnancy. It is also useful for women who have been using hormonal oral contraceptives for a long time.

There is a special opinion...

Methionine is traditionally classified as an antioxidant substance that can prevent aging. There is an opinion that by limiting the use of methionine, it is possible to increase life expectancy. A lot of controversy greeted this opinion, but in the end it was proven that this opinion is incorrect. And even vice versa, methionine is a kind of life stabilizer, helping in the prevention and treatment of many diseases.

Methionine is one of the amino acids important for the body, necessary for the human body to carry out a large number of processes important for normal life. Therefore, sufficient methionine must be included in food.

The process of methionine metabolism directly depends on the body’s regulatory systems, which also includes the action of hormones. Methionine plays a particularly important role in the body's resistance to stress, which affects the overall duration of human life.

In the diets of farm and domestic animals, various feed additives have been widely used in the last 30 years to replenish missing nutritional elements.

These include minerals (macro- and microelements), protein and fat supplements, vitamins, biostimulants, complex natural compounds (sapropel, peat, humates), synthetic products (enzymes, hormones, antibiotics, adaptogens, antioxidants). The search for new ways to improve the health and increase the productivity of farm animals with the help of feed additives with high environmental requirements for meat and dairy food products has naturally led to an increase in the volume of research on the use of alkaline salts of natural humic acids - Humates - in animal husbandry, which have also been found to have immunomodulatory properties. Their high environmental safety and unique ability to improve metabolic processes and increase cellular energy have a very positive effect on living organisms.

Humic preparations are harmless to animals and humans; they do not have allergenic, anaphylactogenic, teratogenic, embryotoxic or carcinogenic properties when used in recommended doses. This makes it possible to create on their basis environmentally friendly natural feed additives and veterinary preparations for birds, farm animals, fish, and pets.

Humic acids make up the bulk of the humic substances that we constantly encounter in nature: in soil, peat, brown coal and in the plants themselves. They are found in microdoses in some foods - roasted coffee, black tea, crust of bread or fried meat.

Even in ancient times, humic-containing peat baths were used in medicine, and in veterinary medicine, fresh peat was used as an antiseptic and adsorbent bedding for piglets. The scientific use of humic acid preparations began in medicine and veterinary medicine in 1967.

Their advantages over conventional drugs appeared very quickly. Humic acid preparations, due to their astringent, antiresorptive, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effects, are particularly well suited for the treatment of diseases of the digestive system and metabolic disorders controlled by intestinal immunity. Humic acid preparations are generally not absorbed into the body, but exert their therapeutic effect in the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract and intestinal wall. The absence of humic acid residues in animal products has been repeatedly proven using the most modern methods (for example, radioisotope labeling).

Humic acids are simply mixed into the feed; they are very well tolerated and have no side effects.

What are humic acids made of?

Humic acid is a large, long chain of molecules that can be isolated as humate from coal or soil layers. Its integral component is fulvic acid, the properties of which are sometimes considered separately. The complex of humic and fulvic acids is an extremely powerful combination for healing the body. It has high bioavailability. Its composition contains a full range of minerals, amino acids and trace elements. These include natural polysaccharides, peptides, up to 20 amino acids, vitamins, minerals, sterols, hormones, fatty acids, polyphenols and ketones with subgroups including flavonoids, flavones, flavins, catechins, tannins, quinones, isoflavones, tocopherols and others. There are about 70 useful components in total. Such a rich polymorphic structure determines the variety of positive biological effects of humic acids.

Fact: It was discovered that humic acids are capable of changing the structure of water, turning it into “melt”. As you know, melt water has a healing effect on living organisms. The water in human tissues also has a melt structure.

Properties of humic acids that are beneficial from a medical point of view.

Coating the intestinal mucosa with humic acid can reduce or completely prevent the absorption of toxic metabolites after infection, when feeding an unbalanced diet, or when switching from one feed to another.

The beneficial effect is the reduction of pathological impulses from the peripheral nerve endings of the intestine, and the restoration of normal peristalsis and tone.

It perfectly restores intestinal immunity in animals exposed to stress.

Under the slight tannic influence of humic acids, the intestinal mucosa thickens, its permeability decreases and excessive secretion of tissue fluid into the intestinal lumen decreases. This prevents dehydration.

Effect on the immune system

Humic acids stimulate the body's defenses and enhance phagocytosis. The inducing effect of phenolic groups of humic acids, responsible for immunological effects, is the basis for the successful treatment of so-called “factor diseases” of young animals

Regulation of intestinal microflora by humic acids.

In veterinary medical practice today, antibiotics are still mainly used to destroy pathogenic flora or limit their impact.

Bioregulatory measures are used only for support. This is the second way of influencing pathogenic microflora, which makes it possible to quantitatively displace it in favor of the main physiological intestinal microflora. To do this, the digestive tract is purposefully populated with antagonistic living microorganisms, probiotics and prebiotics.

But there is a third way, using supporting substances (acids, enzymes, astringents) that neutralize pathogenic microflora, while simultaneously suppressing inflammation and blocking the sites of adhesion of pathogenic pathogens in the intestinal mucosa. These positive effects can be achieved through the use of humic acids.

Enveloping, astringent and adsorbing effect of humic acids.

The ability to form a film and adhere to the epithelium of the gastric and intestinal mucosa, especially the low molecular weight parts of humic acids, is the main prerequisite for their protective and inflammation-suppressing effect.

Unlike well-known adsorbents (activated carbon or certain silicates and clay minerals), which lie on the mucous membrane like compact conglomerates, humic acids slip between the villi of the intestinal epithelium, and even penetrate between epithelial cells. They protect these sensitive tissues, which, for example, can easily become necrotic during a viral infection. Between the infectious agents, their toxins and the mucosal epithelium there is a film of the finest particles of humic acid, which protects the inflamed epithelial tissue and the lymph gland complex. If the intestinal villi are already destroyed, humic acids penetrate the subepithelial tissue and contribute to their restoration.

Antiresorptive and adsorbent action.

Humic acids bind pathogenic E. coli by 94%, endotoxins by 82%. Bacteria and toxins bound by humic acid are eliminated naturally. The toxic-depressive effects of humic acids in both acute and chronic intoxications are also explained by their good adsorptive properties.

It has also been proven to have an adsorptive effect on heavy metals, nitrates, nitrites, fluorides, organophosphates, organochlorine insecticides, carbaryl and warfarin. Since the adsorption of humic acids, along with physical ones, also includes chemical reactions, for example, the formation of complements and ion exchange, it is more intense and dynamic compared to purely physical adsorbents (chemisorption).

Antiresorptive and adsorption effects

Since high molecular weight humic acids are almost completely preserved in the gastrointestinal tract, reaching the small intestine, antiresorptive and adsorption effects take place where they are needed - in the digestive tract. Primary cationoid nitrogen oxides (protein toxins, toxic substances) are fixed, their absorption is noticeably reduced or stops completely, and their exit with feces is accelerated. Since adsorption by humic acids involves not only physical and chemical interactions, but also the formation of complexes and ion exchange, it proceeds more intensively and dynamically compared to conventional physical adsorbents.

Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of humic acids.

The basis for the anti-inflammatory properties of humic acids are the flavonoid structural elements they contain. Anti-inflammatory activity has been experimentally proven using a test on a chicken egg embryo and edema in a rat fetus. Humic acids, through independent receptors located in the intestinal wall (Peyer's patches), stimulate the body's immune system to protect against foreign influences. Studies have shown an obvious increase in phagocyte activity. Activated metabolism and a strengthened immune system lead to a significant increase in the survival rate of young animals. Animal skin and fur also give a healthier appearance.

Antibacterial and antiviral action.

Humic acids have an effect on pathogenic microflora in the form of a direct effect on bacterial cells and their metabolism (suppression of folic acid synthesis). The second antibacterial effect of humic acids is based on the internal binding of high molecular weight protein fractions - bacterial toxins.

From studies it is clear that in various test systems, humic acids highly actively suppress many viruses. The antiviral effect of humic acids is more pronounced than the antibacterial one, since in the biological environment their immunomodulatory effect on the host organism is also added.

Fungicidal action.

Especially pronounced in relation to candida albicans found in the gastrointestinal tract of mammals and humans

Ergotropic effect

Under the influence of humic acids, a healthy intestinal epithelium is formed and the intestinal flora is stabilized. In this way, better utilization of feed substances is possible. In a long-term experiment of more than 120 days, with the preventive administration of humic acids in calves and young animals, weight gain of between 4 and 10% was achieved compared to control groups.

Also, in a therapeutic experiment with a significant burden on health, a positive development of body weight in calves was established with long-term administration of humic acids. Under the influence of humic acids, the nutritious gruel stays in the digestive tract longer without causing constipation. The formation of gases in the intestines is reduced. Digestion and resorption of essential food components improves. The proportion of undigested food is reduced, the processes of rotting and fermentation in the intestines are prevented, and the animals objectively show good general health.

Toxicological safety and application.

An important prerequisite for the widespread use of humic acids as components of veterinary medicines and dietary and feed additives is the fact that acute toxicity to warm-blooded animals when administered orally has not been established.

With long-term oral use, no side effects, allergies or resistance phenomena have been identified.

Humic acids, due to their chemical structure, are neither teratogenic nor mutagenic. They also do not have proven carcinogenic or embryotoxic properties.

Interaction.

Interaction with some medicinal substances is possible due to the adsorption properties of humic acids. Basically, this action is aimed at substances harmful to the body (protein toxins and toxic residues, viruses, as well as heavy metals), but it is necessary to take into account the possibility of inactivating the partner substance in the combination. Although humic substances have been successfully used as carriers for antibiotics, for the preferential action of antibiotics in the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., tetracyclines).

Basics of therapy.

Unlike the targeted use of antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, with humic acid therapy, results appear only after 24-72 hours when it comes to visible symptoms, such as appetite or stool consistency. However, this is only a visible slowdown, since the therapeutic effect of humic acids begins with the suppression of inflammation and the elimination of swelling of the mucous membrane, while simultaneously absorbing toxins and metabolic products. The pathogenic microorganisms themselves, unlike, for example, shock therapy with antibiotics, are not killed immediately, but are gradually eliminated, which turns out to be more favorable. The body is not overwhelmed with absorbed bacterial toxins. On the contrary, it is stimulated to form antibodies against these pathogenic microorganisms, and thus the body's defense systems are trained.

Origin of humic acids.

Under natural conditions, humic acids arise in the soil, during the so-called humification, from various organic starting materials. The humic substances available today arose in the Tertiary period and are therefore approximately 60 million years old. We find humic substances, in addition to soil, also in lignites, peats and brown coal deposits.

In the biological circulation of natural substances, humic substances, along with plant chlorophyll and animal hemin, form the third link. The direct connection of these biocomponents occurs through oxidative processes between chlorophyll and hemins, as well as through humification processes from hemin to soil humic substances, and from there back through assimilation processes to the chlorophyll structure.

Thus, humic substances appear as natural biofactors, the bioactive centers of which are humic acids.

It is less known that humic acids and their fragments are also formed during technological processes during the manufacture of food products (for example, during the processes of baking and frying, or fermentation). For example, coffee, tea, bread crust, as well as fried meat contain humic acids in microdoses. Under natural conditions, they also occur in brown coal deposits.

Chemistry of humic acids.

Natural humic acids cannot be classified as clearly defined substances in the sense of classical structural chemistry. To date, only approximate models of their chemical structure exist. But, despite this, structural elementary complexes explain the basic chemical properties of humic acids. an aromatic chain with a phenolic structure.

According to this model, humic acids are three-dimensional macromolecules with a molar mass from 1000 to 200000 D and heterogeneously bound complexes. In their basic structure, two characteristic areas are always distinguished.

  1. a central core with a high degree of aromatization, as well as strong weaves, and
  2. peripheral functional groups connected by bridging connections.

There are polyionic structures, for example, with carboxylic acid ester groups, hydroxyl, carbonyl and carboxyl phenolic groups. There are also amino and sulfhydryl moieties, as well as quinoid and flavonoid structures. Especially humic acids originating from plant products, for example humic acids WH67 of brown coal, additionally have flavone structures (including fisetin, quercetin, flavones, xanthines).

Biological effects of humic acids

Humic acids accelerate metabolic and redox processes, improve gas exchange in tissues, and increase the rate of free radical oxidation. Actively bind free radicals.

Helps break down food particles in the gastrointestinal tract in addition to the action of enzymes. HAs inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, improve protein digestion and absorption of calcium, trace elements, and nutrients. They form a film on the gastrointestinal mucosa, protecting the body from infections and toxins.

Unlike well-known adsorbents (activated carbon or certain silicates and clay minerals), which lie on the mucous membrane in compact conglomerates, HAs freely slide between the villi of the intestinal epithelium and penetrate between the epithelial cells, where they protect these sensitive tissues from damage by viruses.

At the same time, a film of the finest particles of humic acid is formed between the infectious agents, their toxins and the mucosal epithelium, protecting the inflamed epithelial tissue and the lymph gland complex. If the intestinal villi are already destroyed, humic acids penetrate the subepithelial tissue and contribute to their restoration.

Since adsorption by humic acids includes not only physical, but also chemical interactions, the formation of complexes and ion exchange, it proceeds more intensively and dynamically compared to conventional physical adsorbents. As a result, GCs can significantly reduce the incidence of diarrhea and other digestive disorders, and also help avoid excessive water loss through the intestines during diarrhea.

Application of humic acids in veterinary medicine.

Today, countries with a developed pharmaceutical industry do not make fundamental differences between veterinary drugs and humane medicine in terms of requirements for both the quality of the drugs themselves and the quality of their production. The legislation of the Russian Federation also lacks such a division, and the practice of registering medicines is increasingly erasing the differences that still exist. Characterizing the state of affairs with the use of hepatitis B in veterinary medicine, one can note slightly greater progress in this area in comparison with humane medicine. Although the general trend that we noted earlier remains the same: the bulk of drugs used today belong to the category of feed additives and only a small part belongs to medicinal products.

If we talk about the areas of application of HS in veterinary medicine, they are directly related to the effects discovered in experimental studies in vitro and in vivo, which, against the background of extremely low toxicity, demonstrate the ability to:

  • sorb xenobiotics and antigens,
  • interact with heavy metals and radicals (Klocking R.; 1992),
  • regulate the processes of oxidation and lipid peroxidation (LPO), acting as anti- or pro-oxidants,
  • cytoprotection, in particular hepatoprotection,
  • immunocorrection, in particular, the induction of interferons,
  • activation of hematopoiesis,
  • estrogen induction (Yamada E., et al; 1998)
  • etc.

The difficulties that arise in the creation of humic medicinal products and their active implementation in veterinary practice are the same as in medicine - the standardization of humic substances of natural origin, required when registering medicinal products. Therefore, the main form of use of HS in veterinary medicine is a feed additive, for which the standard requirements are naturally lower.

In the practice of veterinary medicine, natural humic substances, their various modifications (mainly sodium, potassium, ammonium) and combination drugs are used in the following main areas:

  1. as effective enterosorbents for removing microbial and fungal toxins, chemical poisons, heavy metal salts, radiotoxins from the body;
  2. to stimulate animal productivity, acting as a means to improve digestive efficiency;
  3. as immunomodulators;
  4. as therapeutic drugs with antitumor, antimicrobial, wound-healing and other effects. Finally, it has been shown that HS are capable of increasing the body's resistance to adverse effects and facilitating adaptation to changing environmental conditions.

Conclusion

Pharmaco-toxicological studies using modern methods prove the absolute safety of humic acids for animals, people and the environment. Their positive therapeutic effect on almost all types of animals has been proven; their introduction into the body of animals and birds leads to the activation of their vitality, rapid adaptation to changing environmental conditions, acceleration of feed fermentation due to the development of beneficial microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, and has growth-stimulating and immunomodulating properties. action.

To maintain health, any body requires adequate nutrition, a healthy environment and timely prevention. It is not easy for a modern person to take care of himself in urban conditions, poor ecology and an abundance of chemicals in food. A new type of drug can come to the rescue - humate substances.

What is humic acid?

Humic acids (humates) are natural biological compounds. They are formed in the soil as a result of the breakdown of dead plant parts and other organic matter. Salts of humic acids are poorly soluble in water, do not collapse under the influence of the environment, maintaining the structure unchanged.

The humus layer of the soil is saturated with such acids. They are found in small quantities in plants and plant products. Humic acids are found in the meat of animals that eat plant matter.

The benefits of humic acids in nature

In nature, humic acids for animals and plants play the role of a natural dietary supplement, which contains a huge complex of useful vitamins, minerals and trace elements (there are up to 70 components in total).

Unlike simpler compounds, humic acids include all types of biologically active components; they are able to simultaneously influence cells and their surrounding microenvironment, which significantly increases the beneficial effect.

Due to its wide spectrum of action, humic acid has a positive effect on all life support systems for any organism it enters. Also, humic acids serve as an excellent natural antiseptic. They are able to capture free radicals, heavy metal salts and other toxins, improving the health of the soil and living organisms.

Scientists have learned to obtain humic acid salts artificially. A certain amount of humates is contained in coal. When processing waste from a coal mine, part of the acid is isolated in the laboratory, then placed in a physiological solution, the composition of which is similar to the upper layers of the soil.

In this way, they produce the most valuable raw materials for the improvement of agricultural lands and the cleanup of contaminated areas. The characteristics of artificially produced humate are no different from its natural counterpart.

Biochemical properties of humic acid

The composition of humic acid may vary slightly depending on location, soil type and plant residues. However, they all have a characteristic set of complex molecules and chemical compounds, which is used to determine humic acids as such.

How are humates useful for humans?

Activate the exchange of proteins and nucleic acidsThe main function of nucleic acids in the human body is the preservation and transmission of genetic data at the cellular level. Proteins are the basis for any chemical reaction inside a cell, as well as an integral part of nucleic acids.
Normalizes cell energy metabolismTo ensure normal functioning, the cell needs energy and nutrition, which it receives from organic substances. Entering the human body, nutrients undergo three stages of breakdown before the cell can absorb them. Energy metabolism is the process of breaking down a product into molecules and assimilating them at the cellular level.
Have a trigger effect at the cellular levelThe trigger effect is the body’s ability to respond adequately and in a timely manner to a change in its state under the influence of an external stimulus. For example, triggers on the human body are individual points that, when pressed, cause sharp pain. Thus, triggers indicate the presence and nature of problems in the body (salt deposition, excess tension in certain muscle areas, insufficient blood supply and other reasons).
Normalize the functioning of cell membranesA membrane is a cell wall that separates and protects its internal contents from the external environment. The cell membrane is multilayered, each layer performs its own functions and has varying degrees of strength. The membrane allows nutrients and oxygen into the cell, removes waste products, ensures the cell interacts with the environment and protects against pathogens. The health of the cell directly depends on the proper functioning of the membrane.
Activates ion exchangeIn the process of breaking down organic food into its smallest components, compounds and molecules are formed in the human body that are suitable or unsuitable for absorption at the cellular level. Ion exchange stimulates the separation of some molecules from others and helps purify the separated components.
Is a natural sorbentTo sorb means to absorb. Sorbents are capable of absorbing and retaining various substances and chemical compounds in their structure. In agriculture, humic acid is widely used to clean soil from contamination. It has the same ability to absorb and remove chemicals for living organisms. However, unlike other adsorbents, humates remove harmful substances at the cellular level.

Use of humic acids in medicine

Due to the ecological nature of their origin, humic acids are absolutely safe for the body. They are successfully used in various fields of medicine: therapy of pathologies, treatment of inflammatory processes of a bacterial nature, metabolic disorders and toxic poisoning. Methods of application are divided into oral (oral), external and subcutaneous.

During laboratory and clinical trials, tests were carried out for various types of harmful properties of humates, including:

  • Mutagenic (the ability to cause irreversible changes in the body that are transmitted hereditarily);
  • Carcinogenic (increasing the risk of cancer);
  • Embryotoxic (the ability to penetrate the placenta, causing fetal poisoning in pregnant women);
  • Teratogenic (impaired morphology and the occurrence of pathologies during intrauterine development of the fetus at different stages of pregnancy).

Humic acids have shown a complete absence of side effects for human health.

Preparations containing humic acids are used for the following diseases:

  • Digestive disorders, diarrhea, disruption of intestinal motility (contraction of the walls, promoting the formation and removal of feces from the body);
  • Healing of wounds and postoperative sutures;
  • Removing inflammatory processes on the skin and subcutaneous layers;
  • Neutralization of pathogenic flora (pathogenic microorganisms) of various nature;
  • Normalization of hematopoiesis, qualitative improvement and purification of blood composition;
  • Increasing immunity, stimulating the effect on the body's cells and increasing their protective function;
  • Suppressing the growth of cancer cells by affecting the ability of damaged molecules to attack healthy molecules and their compounds;
  • Increasing iron levels in the body to treat anemia;
  • Cleansing the body of toxic wastes, cholesterol, heavy metal salts, nitrates, phosphates and insecticides that enter the body due to environmental pollution;
  • Effective removal of free radicals and radioactive elements from the body.

The ecological situation on our planet leaves much to be desired. Most of the population suffers from a lack of vitamins, minerals, and important microelements. The polluted air of cities constantly poisons our body, making it vulnerable to an army of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Even vegetables and fruits in stores cannot be as healthy as possible because they are grown in poor soils. A few decades ago they were much richer, as they contained humic acids. What is it, what properties do these compounds have, what are the benefits for the human body? We will try to answer all these questions in our article.

What are humic acids?

These are compounds that have a long molecular chain. Soil, peat, and plants contain humic acids. Oxidized coals also contain this substance. It can be found in small quantities in fried meat, tea, coffee and bread crust.

If we talk about natural humic acids, they have a rather complex structure, so their molecular weight can reach 2500. Humic acids are practically insoluble in water, with the exception of fulvic acids.

The formation of these compounds occurs during the process of humus formation. It is still a mystery to scientists why the process of decomposition of organic matter in the soil does not end with the formation of water and carbon dioxide as end products, but at a certain stage simple decomposition products are converted into humic acids.

Composition of humic acids

Humic acids and fulvic acids have a powerful effect on any living organism due to their rich composition. They contain a full range of amino acids, trace elements and minerals, as well as:

  • Polysaccharides of natural origin.
  • Vitamins.
  • Peptides.
  • Hormones.
  • Fatty acid.
  • Polyphenols and ketones.
  • Catechins.
  • Isoflavones.
  • Tocopherols.
  • Quinones and others. There are about 70 useful components in total.

This rich composition explains the positive biological effects of humic acid.

Scientists have discovered the fact that it is capable of changing the structure of water, making it “melt”. And it is known to have a healing effect on the body.

Biological and chemical properties of humic acids

These organic substances have a complex structure, they are quite common in nature and act as natural detoxifiers and adaptogens.

A wide range of biological effects distinguishes these compounds, and at the same time they are completely safe to use, as they are environmentally friendly. In the 60s of the 20th century, the effects of humic acids on animals were studied and it turned out that they significantly increase the body’s resistance to negative environmental factors. The body becomes much stronger and healthier.

Research by our and foreign scientists confirms that humic acids (we have already discussed what they are) can be used as medicinal raw materials.

If we consider the chemical characteristics of the compounds, we can note them:

  • Irregularity of structure.
  • Polydispersity.
  • Heterogeneity of structural components.

Humic acid monomers are aromatic compounds with side branches and heterocycles. Among the functional groups you can find:

  • Phenolic.
  • Carbonyl.
  • Carboxyl.
  • Alcohol.
  • Peptides.
  • Polysaccharides.
  • Quinoid groups.
  • Mineral complexes.

Polymorphic structure provides a variety of positive effects of humic acids on the body, whether plant or animal. They are distinguished by their versatile binding potential, therefore they act as an intermediary that significantly reduces the effect of toxic substances on the body.

How can humic acids be obtained?

Most often, such compounds are obtained by processing waste from coal production. They are then grown in water by adding inoculum. These are pathogenic bacteria that accelerate the decomposition process and increase the percentage of acids released.

In this way, it is possible to speed up the process of soil formation in areas of coal mines and cultivate infertile soils. Any organic material is suitable for obtaining these compounds.

Obtaining humic acid is even possible from fallen leaves or cellulose.

The effect of humic acids on the human body

These compounds have powerful abilities to maintain chemical balance in the body. The dual nature of humic acid allows it to act as an electron donor or acceptor. This makes it a powerful antioxidant, a trap for free radicals, and, as is known, they damage DNA molecules and accelerate the aging of the body. Humic acids are also useful for humans because they have a powerful healing effect:


From all of the above, we can conclude that if you take humic acids, the benefits for humans will be enormous.

Areas of application of humic acids

Considering the large and varied composition of these compounds, as well as their numerous properties, we can name several industries in which their use is justified and their effectiveness has been confirmed. Humic acids are in demand in the following areas:

  1. Plant growing.
  2. Animal husbandry.
  3. Human therapy.

Let's look at each area in a little more detail.

The benefits of humic acids for the plant body

The concept of humus has been known for more than 200 years, but the benefits of humic acids have been discovered relatively recently. There is a paradox: humic acids in soils are not soluble in water, so how can they have a positive effect on plant development? Scientists have found a way out of this situation. It turned out that the salts of these acids are quite soluble, so they are actively used in the production of fertilizers. The following positive effects on plants were noted:

  • The plant organism increases in size many times faster.

  • Stimulates the growth and development of the root system.
  • Salts of humic acids increase the resistance of plants to the effects of adverse environmental factors. The incidence is decreasing.
  • Accelerate fruit ripening.
  • They have a positive effect on the intensity of photosynthesis and chlorophyll synthesis.
  • Increases plant productivity.

Numerous studies have proven the effectiveness of using humic acids in crop production.

Use of humates in veterinary medicine

The use of humic acids is justified not only in human therapy and plant cultivation, but also in veterinary medicine. It has been established that when they are added to the diet of animals, they cause the following effects:

  • The percentage of births of healthy offspring increases.
  • The survival rate of young animals increases.
  • Immunity increases and animals become less susceptible to various infections.

  • Weight gain increases.
  • Metabolic processes in the animal's body improve.
  • Digestion improves in animals.
  • Since toxic substances and gases are removed from the body in a timely manner, the processes of rotting and fermentation are suppressed in the intestines.
  • The general well-being of animals improves.
  • Wool and leather look much better.
  • Inflammatory processes are suppressed.

When added to animal feed, humic acid does not cause side effects and is well tolerated by both animals and poultry. There is no fear that it will cause gene mutations. Its safety allows it to be used for manufacturing

Treatment of humans using humic acids

These substances can be safely used in the treatment of human diseases. They are absolutely safe, do not cause allergies, and there are no side effects, because the acids are completely environmentally friendly.

Humic acid is prescribed for the following pathologies and conditions:

  • Gastrointestinal diseases.
  • Metabolic disorder.
  • Therapy of poisoning.
  • Elimination of inflammatory processes, which makes it possible to replace antibacterial drugs with humic acids.

These compounds make it possible to neutralize and remove toxic and harmful substances from the body, therefore improving the general condition of a person.

The use of humic acids in cosmetology

External use of humic acid is no less effective than internal use. It is used in cosmetology for medicinal ointments and masks, baths. As a result, toxic substances that are in the skin and provoke allergic manifestations and other pathologies are eliminated.

An ointment based on humic acids has the following effects:

  • Relieves pain.
  • Fights inflammation.
  • Helps eliminate the consequences of musculoskeletal injuries.

This therapeutic effect justifies the use of external application of humic acids in the presence of varicose veins, hematomas, joint and muscle injuries.

Where can you buy humic acids?

Humic acid is sold in pharmacies in the form of dietary supplements. These include, for example, “Gumavit”. Its cost, of course, is high, reaching 1000 rubles for just 50 ml. Among the medicines one can name Supropol.

This drug is prescribed to patients even with cancer. Humic acids are able to penetrate cancer cells and kill them. The price of the medicine reaches 10 thousand per bottle, but in our country this product does not have official registration, so its use is treated with caution.

It is much easier to purchase animal feed with humic acids. For example, fish food with this composition will cost about 300-400 rubles, and “Elytrium” for pigs and poultry will cost about 500 rubles.

These are the miraculous humic acids. We have explained what it is, but it remains to add that before using products containing them, you should consult your doctor. This is especially true for the treatment of children, pregnant women and nursing mothers. Any, even the most harmless drug can cause unexpected reactions in the body, so you must first discuss this issue with your doctor.

Nature creates amazing and diverse substances that people find useful in various fields. There are compounds called humic acids. Man has studied their structure and chemical composition and now uses their beneficial and unique properties. What are the benefits and harms of humic acids?

What are humic acids and what are they for?

Humic acids are high-molecular organic compounds formed during the decomposition of dead plants during the process of humification. They are not a substance with a single chemical formula, but a mixture of many compounds with different structures.

Composition of humic acids

These chemical compounds are a long chain of molecules. These chains include various biologically active substances: hormones, catechins, flavones, peptides, quinones, polyphenols, carbohydrates, as well as about 20 amino acids. Moreover, these acids also contain minerals.

The rich chemical composition facilitates the use of these compounds in various fields.

Where are humic acids found and how are they obtained?

They are found in plants, peat and, of course, in the soil layer - humus. These compounds are present in the form of salts in oxidized coal. Typically, the biodegradation of organic compounds produces 2 end products - carbon dioxide and water. In the case of the substances under consideration, this does not happen: the biomass does not break down into these components. On the contrary, the remaining components (previously mentioned polyphenols, amino acids and carbohydrates) cooperate and combine into long molecular chains.

These compounds can be obtained artificially by specially processing coal production waste. They are added to water, and then a culture of bacteria is introduced into this environment, accelerating decomposition and, accordingly, producing the target product.

Comment! They are found in small concentrations in some foods: fried meat, coffee, tea.

Application of humic acids

The compounds have been used in various fields. For example, in agriculture, humic acids are actively used as fertilizers for plants. In addition, they are very often used in medicine, veterinary medicine and cosmetology. Another application of these substances is their use to purify waters and areas that have been damaged by humans with petroleum products, other organic substances and heavy metals.

How is humic acid beneficial for humans?

The benefits of these substances for humans are widely known.

Due to their chemical structure, they are antioxidants. In addition, their antiviral and antibacterial activity has been studied. They can be used as an enterosorbent for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Moreover, in this case, the effect will be intense compared to conventional sorbents, for example, activated carbon, since humic acid is a complexing agent capable of attracting other substances to itself, and not just a mechanical sorbent. Significant harm and discomfort from gastrointestinal diseases can be eliminated with the help of humic acids.

These substances also help eliminate damage from toxic substances such as heavy metals. They take part in liver metabolism, thereby eliminating and neutralizing toxic substances, preventing them from also participating in chemical reactions.

They have anti-stress activity by regulating the production of adrenal hormones - adrenaline and norepinephrine, and an increased level of these hormones in the blood harms a person’s psycho-emotional state and causes a feeling of anxiety. However, humic preparations block excess hormones, preventing them from reaching their target - nerve receptors.

Humic acids are also included in the composition of mumiyo. Moreover, they have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the body's immune response. Thus, the tangible benefits of humic acids for humans have been proven, and harm can only be caused by using them for other purposes.

Humic acids for plants

In agriculture, the properties of these substances are used to accelerate plant growth and also as a fertilizer. However, their benefits do not end there:

  1. In the case of their long-term use, various soil properties are improved, for example, buffer and ion exchange, as well as its structure.
  2. The activity of microorganisms inhabiting the soil increases.
  3. In addition, they improve the ability of plants to adapt to unpleasant conditions, both external (sharp changes in temperature and humidity) and their own diseases.
  4. The compounds promote the accumulation of nutrients by plants, which makes it possible to reduce the use of other fertilizers and the damage they cause to a minimum.

Important! Since these compounds are not soluble in water, their properties are beneficial in plant growing in the form of ammonium, sodium, and potassium salts dissolved in water.

Use of humic acids in veterinary medicine

The compounds are used as livestock feed additives. This allows you to accelerate the growth of muscle mass in animals without harming their body, which is very useful for meat breeds. The best survival rate of individuals whose food included these compounds has been proven. In addition, these compounds promote better digestion of food in animals, which improves their well-being.

Important! These substances do not harm the health of animals and do not cause genetic mutations.

Humic acids in cosmetology

These substances are actively used in mud therapy. With the help of masks, ointments, baths and other cosmetics containing these compounds, toxins and poisonous elements are removed that can accumulate in the skin and cause an allergic reaction or provoke other diseases that are harmful to the skin. Thus, their usefulness in this area has been proven.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of humic acids have been studied in some detail. Some scientists consider these substances to be a lost component of the human food chain. Therefore, the benefits of these compounds for improving health are already well known and cannot be doubted. In addition, the need for their use in many areas of human activity cannot be underestimated.

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