Hyaluronic Acid

Scientific Name:  Hyaluronan.

Other Names:  Hyaluronate.

Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan that is found in neural, connective, and epithelial tissues. 

It is a chief component of cell proliferation and migration and is often a lubricating component of certain bodily fluids that increases viscosity. 

It is a major part of articular cartilage, providing a coat around each cell.

Sources of Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body and is found in large quantities in the skin and cartilage within the joints of the human body.

Home Remedies using Hyaluronic Acid:

Benefits and Uses of Hyaluronic Acid:

Hyaluronic acid is a major component of skin and can be attributed with involvement in tissue repair. 

It is also commonly found in high quantities in cancerous tumors and cells and can be used to diagnose and track the progress of prostate and breast cancer.

Acting as a tumor marker (found in the blood, urine, or bodily tissues when malignancy and poor prognosis are probable).

Hyaluronic acid has been approved for use in cataract, glaucoma, and other eye surgeries, including corneal transplants and reparation of retinal detachment. 

Administration of injections into the knee joint may supplement the viscosity of the joint fluid and provide better lubrication, producing an analgesic effect for those suffering from osteoarthritis. 

Hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient in many skin care products and has been FDA-approved as an injection to filling soft tissue defects such as wrinkles.

Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid:

It is believed that elevated levels of hyaluronic acid may not only mark tumors but may also be a contributor to the spread of malignant cancers because it is highly involved in cell proliferation and migration.  It is therefore linked to a negative prognosis in cancer patients.

Additional Information for Hyaluronic Acid:

While the molecular weight or size of hyaluronic acid in cartilage decreases with age, the quantity found increases. 

It is believed that a diet high in sticky starches, like sweet potatoes, may stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid.

This can lead to healthy skin, eyesight, and joint function in later years, possibly prolonging life.