Hyaluronic acid
Synopsis of hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide (specifically a glycosaminoglycan) found throughout the human body, with the highest concentrations in the skin, eyes, joints, and connective tissues. It plays a critical role in hydration, tissue repair, lubrication, and structural support by attracting and retaining water—up to 1,000 times its weight—within the extracellular matrix of tissues.
In modern health and wellness, hyaluronic acid is used both topically and internally to support skin health, joint lubrication, and wound healing. In cosmetic and dermatological applications, it is widely used in serums, creams, and injectable fillers to reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and restore moisture balance. Orally, HA supplements are used to relieve joint pain and stiffness, especially in individuals with osteoarthritis, by supporting synovial fluid viscosity and cartilage integrity.
In ophthalmology, hyaluronic acid is included in eye drops for dry eye syndrome and used during cataract surgery as a viscoelastic agent. It is also present in wound dressings and post-surgical treatments to speed tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
Historical Use
Although hyaluronic acid was first isolated in the 1930s, its widespread medical and cosmetic use only began in the late 20th century. Initially extracted from rooster combs, it is now commonly produced through biotechnological fermentation using bacterial cultures.
While not a traditional herbal remedy, the concept of using moisture-retaining and joint-supportive substances can be found in many healing systems. For example, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, herbs that nourish Yin or promote joint lubrication (such as sesame oil, ghee, and collagen-rich bone broths) serve a similar function to hyaluronic acid in maintaining tissue softness, resilience, and internal moisture.
With modern technology, HA has become a cornerstone of functional skincare and integrative joint support, praised for its biocompatibility, safety, and multipurpose benefits. It is especially favored for aging skin, degenerative joint conditions, and post-surgical recovery, offering a science-backed solution to hydration and mobility challenges.
Hyaluronic acid is used for these health conditions
Abrasions (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Burns and Scalds (Scientific)
Cartilage Damage (Scientific)
Dermatitis (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Scars / Scar Tissue (Scientific)
Skin Care (general) (Scientific)
Surgery (healing from) (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)
Wrinkles (Scientific)
hyaluronic acid is used to support these body systems
Eyes (Scientific)
Gums (Scientific)
Joints (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Structural System (Scientific)
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