What are Fulvic Acids?
Fulvic acids are made up of molecules that are especially rich in oxygen and minerals when compared to non-fulvic humic acids. These acids are typically found in substrates such as clay, soil or shale. Additionally, fulvic acids are sometimes found in bodies of water like lakes, streams and oceans. However, the greatest concentration of fulvic acids are located in rare fulvic shale deposits. These areas feature layers and layers of compressed fulvic shale which is rich in the minerals and trace elements for which fulvic acid has become known.
One of the key characteristics of fulvic acid is its ability to be soluble in acid, alkaline and neutral environments. This makes it easier for plants to absorb nutrients from soil and water. When fulvic acids are incorporated in agriculture, soil is better able to retain moisture. As a result, the soil structure improves and plants get the important nutrients they need, including phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen, sulfur and magnesium. Furthermore, fulvic acids make these minerals soluble by releasing carbonic gas. Meanwhile, the fulvic acids make cell membranes more permeable, enhancing the uptake of nutrients within the plant. Despite their low molecular weight, fulvic acid molecules can carry over 60 minerals and trace elements into a cell, including both single molecules and molecule colloids. All of these steps create the ideal conditions for growing nutrient-rich plants in an agricultural environment.
Among the many nutrients with which fulvic acids react, they have a particular affinity for iron. Plants in soil rich with fulvic acid tend to have a higher iron content. The same goes for fulvic shale deposits which are composed of compressed plant materials millions of years old. These fulvic shale deposits have a high iron content as well since the plant material inside is completely pure and preserved. Studies have also shown that these iron-rich deposits tend to also contain a greater amount of other trace minerals as well. As these minerals interact, they increase the concentrations of metal ions and silica in the deposit; this can potentially lead to the synthesis of new minerals as the dissolved metals and silica form in new combinations. Without fulvic acids, none of these interactions would be possible.
In addition to reacting with nutrients, fulvic acids are also an electrolyte. This is what makes the fulvic acid molecules able to increase cell membrane permeability. Its electrolyte composition also gives fulvic acids the ability to enhance DNA and RNA metabolism. This can reverse some of the damage done to human cells by toxic substances. It also keeps nutrients in the body longer. The presence of an electrolyte like fulvic acid helps the human body to absorb nutrients, vitamins and enzymes faster, which is why fulvic acid is often an important ingredient for superior mineral supplements.