Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan, also called as Hyaluronan or Hyalronate. ^[1] Hyaluronic Acid is one of the most fascinating of all mucopolysaccharides which roams copiously throughout the body and widely distributed in connective, epithelial and nervous tissues. ^{[1, 2]} Hyaluronic acid is a key component of extra cellular matrix that surrounds and supports human cells.^{[1, 2]} Hyaluronic acid has the remarkable capability to bind and retain massive amount of water at cellular levels.^[2] This uncanny ability of Hyaluronic acid makes it vitally significant in such a manner that it holds the human cells and allows them to gel together.^[2] In late 1970s, Hyaluronic acid was described as “goo” molecule, that is the part of extracellular matrix and it is an omnipresent carbohydrate molecule. ^[1]

Hyaluronan is a main lubricating component of synovial fluid in joint cartilage which increases the viscosity of fluid, lubricates joints and promotes healthy cartilage and joint structures. ^{[1, 2]} Hyaluronan is also found in skin with greatest concentrations and involved in tissue repairing. ^{[1, 2]} Hyaluronic acid is also abundantly found in extracellular matrices and contributes to fluid movement, proliferation and progression of cells. ^[1]

As we grow older the levels of Hyaluronic acid gradually diminishes and contributes to aging processes and joint problems. Researchers believed that supplementation with Hyaluronic acid can serve as an effective way to restore the diminished amount of HA from our systems. ^[2] Supplements of Hyaluronic acid are available in the form of cremes, facial gels, soft gels, capsules, and tablets and attaining a worthwhile attention among its users.

Cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists revealed that Hyaluronic acid which is soft tissue filler has the ability to remove facial wrinkles and delay the aging processes. Hyaluronic acid adds volume and shape to the skin and gives an instantaneous result. ^[2]

Hyaluronic acid exhibits wholesome effects in following mentioned health concerns.

HA is like a cellular sponge and has a potential to retain inconceivable amounts of moisture. A single molecule of Hyaluronic acid has the capability to hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water. When Hyaluronic acid is topically applied, it works by trapping the moisture of both upper and lower layers of skin. Hyaluronan improves skin quality and appearance and provides moisture and elasticity to the skin. HA prevents formation of wrinkles, lines, sagging and roughness. ^[2]

Hyaluronic acid is a major component of synovial fluid in joints that cushions joints from bone on bone grinding which can be responsible for certain joint problems. ^[2] Supplementation with Hyaluronic acid is helpful in promoting the cartilage and joint structures. ^[2] Course of injections of Hyaluronic acid into the knee joint are believed to be increase the viscosity of joint fluid, lubricating fluid, cushioning the joint and thus shows wholesome effects on discomfort of knee joint. ^[1]

Hyalronate is also found in eye and has positive effects on eye health and various problems associated with it. ^{[1, 2]}

1. Marcia Zimmerman, CN & Jayson Kroner, CSN. (2006). 7-Syndrome Healing. Page No. Chico, California: Nutrition Solution Publications.
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyaluronic_acid

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease.