Along with fulvic acid, humic acid is the other major humic fraction in shilajit. Heavier , insoluble at acidic pH and soluble in basic pH , it plays mainly a structural and chelating role.
1) What is humic acid?
1.1 Humic substances are produced by the slow decomposition of organic matter. A distinction is made between humic acids (large polymers) and fulvic acids (low molecular weight).
1.2 Humic acid is rich in carboxyl and phenolic groups which interact with metal ions, explaining its chelating properties.
Note: Humic acid is not a single molecule, but a set of complex polymers resulting from plant decomposition.
2) Key properties
2.1 High molecular weight
Large heterogeneous polymers → limited cell passage, mainly local action.
2.2 pH-dependent solubility
Insoluble in acid , soluble in base. This profile influences its bioavailability.
2.3 Chelation & adsorption
Ability to form stable complexes with Pb, Cd, Hg and certain toxins.
3) Potential biological roles
3.1 Detoxification
Heavy metal binding → reduced intestinal absorption.
3.2 Intestinal barrier
Adsorption of toxins such as aflatoxin B1, suggesting a local protective effect.
3.3 Immunomodulation
Modulation of cytokines (IL-12, TNF-α, etc.) observed preclinically.
3.4 Bioavailability
Less bioavailable than fulvic acid → mainly local role.
4) Scientific data
4.1 Mainly preclinical studies: metal adsorption, intestinal protection, immune modulation.
4.2 Toxicology: A humic-fulvic preparation showed a high NOAEL in a 90-day rat study.
5) Safety & Regulation (EU)
5.1 No health claims are permitted.
5.2 Products must comply with Regulation (EU) 2023/915 on contaminants.
Caution: Even if the toxicological data are reassuring, the quality of purification remains essential to avoid any contamination by heavy metals.
6) How to choose a good product
6.1 Verify origin, extraction, third-party analyses, standardization and transparency (COA).
7) Practical advice for use
Forms : powder, capsules, liquid or complex (shilajit). Timing : with water/meal. Precautions : follow the label; caution during pregnancy/breastfeeding, renal insufficiency, sensitive treatments.
Tip: Choose brands that publish a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch, a guarantee of transparency and safety.
8) Humic acid vs. fulvic acid
| Criteria |
Humic acid |
Fulvic acid |
| Size/structure |
Heterogeneous polymers, high weight
|
Low molecular weight |
| Solubility |
Insoluble in acid , soluble in base |
Soluble at wide pH |
| Role |
Structural/local , chelating
|
Vector, transport of nutrients |
| Bioavailability |
Lower (size + pH) |
Higher (small size) |
9) FAQ
Humic acid is heavier, polymeric, and less soluble (insoluble at acidic pH), acting primarily locally as a chelator/adsorbent . Fulvic acid is smaller and soluble at broad pH, often described as a bioavailability vector .
It adsorbs/chelates heavy metals (e.g. lead) and toxins (e.g. aflatoxin B1). The complexes formed are poorly absorbed and can be eliminated. Data mainly preclinical .
No. Its large size and solubility profile limit its cellular passage; its role is mainly local and structural .
In vitro/animal studies suggest cytokine modulation . In Europe, no health claims are permitted; clinical confirmation required.
Toxicological evaluations of purified humic preparations indicate good tolerance at the doses tested. The critical point remains purity (heavy metals, solvents, mycotoxins). Request recent COAs.
No health claims authorized to date. Compliance with Regulation (EU) 2023/915 (contaminants). Favor brands that publish their batch analyses.
