Fulvic acid is primarily studied for its effects on plants and soil. Fulvic acid is an organic and natural electrolyte. Depending on the situation, Fulvic acid can act as an electron donor or acceptor and an oxidizer or reducer. Fulvic acid has exhibited the ability to enhance the availability and adsorption of nutrients as well as prolong their time of residence. In the chick animal model Fulvic acid disturbed the processing of procollagen II in articular cartilage. Fulvic acid has being shown to attenuate homocysteine-induced cyclooxygenase-2 expression in human monocytes. Fulvic acid, the main active principle of Shilajit (a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas), blocks tau self-aggregation, opening an avenue toward the study of Alzheimer's therapy. People take fulvic acid by mouth for brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, as well as respiratory tract infections, cancer, fatigue, heavy metal toxicity, and preventing a condition in which the body tissues do not receive enough oxygen (hypoxia).