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humic

Also known as: Humic acids, Humic substances, Humates, Humic Acid

Overview

Humic acids are complex organic compounds derived from the decomposition of plant and animal matter, found naturally in soil, peat, and coal. They are part of a broader category of humic substances, including fulvic acids and humin. In agriculture, humic acids are used to improve soil fertility and plant growth by enhancing microbial activity and nutrient uptake. They also act as chelators, binding minerals and potentially reducing the accumulation of heavy metals. In animal nutrition, humic acids are used as feed additives to enhance ruminal fermentation and growth. While marketed for potential antioxidant and detoxifying properties in human health, research is less mature, requiring more rigorous clinical trials to establish clear benefits. The quality of available evidence is substantial in agriculture but largely anecdotal in human health.

Benefits

Humic acids have demonstrated benefits primarily in agriculture and animal nutrition. In agriculture, studies show a 12% increase in crop yield, a 27% improvement in nitrogen use efficiency, and a 17% increase in nitrogen uptake. These effects are attributed to enhanced microbial activity and improved nutrient availability in the soil. In animal nutrition, humic acid supplementation has improved milk yield and quality in goats, as well as increased the growth rate of their kids. Furthermore, humic substances have been found to improve the specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio in fish. While these benefits are well-documented in agriculture and animal nutrition, further research is needed to validate similar effects in human health.

How it works

Humic acids enhance microbial activity in soil, improving nutrient uptake by plants. They also act as chelators, binding minerals and heavy metals, which can improve soil quality and reduce toxicity. In animals, humic acids influence ruminal fermentation, improving nutrient utilization and reducing ammonia levels. While the exact molecular targets in humans are not well-defined, humic acids may interact with gut microbiota and influence nutrient absorption. The bioavailability of humic acids in humans is not well-studied, but they are thought to be poorly absorbed in their intact form, potentially requiring microbial transformation in the gut to exert effects.

Side effects

Humic acids are generally considered safe when used as intended in agriculture and animal feed. However, human safety data are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented in human studies, but potential gastrointestinal disturbances may occur if ingested in large quantities. Rare side effects are unknown due to a lack of comprehensive human studies. Potential interactions with medications are not well-studied, and caution is advised in individuals with kidney or liver disease due to potential chelation effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use. Due to limited human data, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using humic acids as a dietary supplement.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose and maximum safe dose have not been established for human use. In animal feed, doses are typically in grams per day. Continuous use is common in agriculture, while in animal feed, daily administration is typical. Humic acids are often used as a liquid or powder in agriculture and animal feed. Poor absorption in humans may require large doses to achieve effects. Due to the lack of established guidelines and potential risks, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using humic acids as a dietary supplement.

FAQs

Are humic acids safe for human consumption?

Limited data exists on human safety, so caution is advised. Potential gastrointestinal disturbances may occur with large doses. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

How are humic acids typically administered?

In agriculture, continuous use is typical. In animal feed, daily administration is common. For human use, there are no established guidelines, so consult a healthcare professional.

What are the expected benefits of humic acids for human health?

Human health benefits require further research. Agricultural benefits are well-documented, but these do not automatically translate to human health. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Can humic acids replace conventional fertilizers or nutritional supplements?

Humic acids are not a substitute for conventional fertilizers or nutritional supplements without further evidence. They should be used under guidance and in conjunction with established practices.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/14/12/2763 – This experimental study found that humic acid amendment increased crop yield by 12%, nitrogen use efficiency by 27%, and nitrogen uptake by 17%. The study provides valuable insights into the agricultural benefits of humic acids, highlighting their potential to improve crop production and nutrient utilization.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/agronomy/articles/10.3389/fagro.2022.848621/full – This study investigates the impact of humic acid on agricultural practices. The research highlights the potential of humic acid to enhance soil fertility and plant growth, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/14/10/1663 – This research explores the role of humic substances in aquaculture. The findings suggest that humic substances can improve the specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio in fish, indicating their potential as a beneficial additive in aquaculture systems.
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/9daf/6261274201b2f686a0458d5ce83c8db795de.pdf – This meta-analysis examines the effects of humic substances in aquaculture, analyzing data from eighteen publications. The study reveals a significant improvement in specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio in fish, providing a comprehensive overview of the benefits of humic substances in aquaculture.
https://www.jafs.com.pl/Impact-of-humic-acid-as-an-organic-additive-on-ruminal-fermentation-constituents,92074,0,2.html – This experimental study with twenty late pregnant goats demonstrated that humic acid supplementation improved ruminal pH, increased milk yield and quality, and enhanced the growth rate of kids. The well-designed study highlights the benefits of humic acid in animal nutrition, specifically improving ruminal fermentation and overall animal health.