Nucleotide & Cofactor · Other

Fumaric Acid (Fumarate)

Provisional Moderate Scorenucleotide

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Fumaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid that functions as a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle, facilitating cellular energy production through succinate dehydrogenase enzyme activity. This metabolic compound supports ATP synthesis, demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects through NF-κB pathway modulation, and promotes collagen synthesis for enhanced skin health.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryNucleotide & Cofactor

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordfumaric acid benefits

Fumaric Acid close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in metabolic intermediate, energy metabolism enhancer, acid-base regulator

Fumaric Acid (Fumarate) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports cellular energy production through the Krebs cycle, crucial for ATP synthesis and vitality. - May have anti-inflammatory properties by modulating immune responses, reducing chronic inflammation. - Enhances skin health by promoting collagen production, improving elasticity and reducing wrinkles. - Supports detoxification by aiding liver function, enhancing the body's natural cleansing processes. - Boosts immune function by enhancing the activity of immune cells, supporting overall health. - Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress and promoting longevity. - Improves cognitive function by supporting neurotransmitter balance, enhancing mental clarity and focus.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Fumaric acid, or fumarate, is an organic compound that is part of the Krebs cycle in cellular respiration. It is naturally found in various plants and fungi and can be synthesized through chemical processes for industrial use.

“Fumaric acid has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It is named after the plant Fumaria officinalis, from which it was first isolated.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Fumaric acid has been studied in vitro and in animal models for its role in energy metabolism and potential anti-inflammatory effects. Some clinical trials indicate benefits in treating psoriasis.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Molecular formula: C4H4O4 - Molar mass: 116.07 g/mol - Found in: plants, fungi, and metabolic pathways

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Fumaric acid enters the citric acid cycle where it is converted to malate by fumarase enzyme, generating NADH for ATP production. It modulates immune responses by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1β. Additionally, fumaric acid stimulates fibroblast activity and promotes collagen type I synthesis through TGF-β pathway activation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Clinical research on fumaric acid is primarily focused on its use in multiple sclerosis and psoriasis treatment. A randomized controlled trial of 257 MS patients showed dimethyl fumarate (fumaric acid derivative) reduced relapse rates by 44% over 2 years. Dermatological studies involving 144 psoriasis patients demonstrated significant improvement in skin lesions after 16 weeks of fumaric acid ester treatment. However, evidence for general metabolic and anti-aging benefits remains limited to preclinical studies and requires further human validation.

Also Known As

(E)-Butenedioic acidTrans-1,2-ethylenedicarboxylic acidAllomaleic acidBoletic acidLichenic acidTumaric acid

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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