Succinic acid

Table of Contents

Other names

Butanedioic Acid
Amber Acid
Natural Krebs Cycle Intermediate

Synopsis

Succinic acid, also known as butanedioic acid, is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid involved in cellular metabolism—particularly in the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle), where it plays a vital role in energy production within mitochondria. It is found in small amounts in plants, animals, and fermented products, and is especially concentrated in amber, from which its name is derived (succinum is Latin for amber).

As a dietary supplement and ingredient in integrative health, succinic acid is prized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and energy-supportive properties. It is thought to enhance cellular respiration, protect against oxidative stress, support detoxification, and improve resilience to physical or mental fatigue. Because of its role in the Krebs cycle, it may also assist in improving metabolic efficiency and mitochondrial function—making it popular in formulas targeting chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and metabolic disorders.

Succinic acid is also a natural chelating agent, helping bind and remove certain metals or toxins from the body. It is included in topical preparations for its anti-aging and skin-calming effects, particularly in cosmeceuticals derived from Baltic amber or biofermented sources. In Eastern Europe and Russia, succinic acid (particularly from amber extracts) has been used in folk and medical traditions to support stress reduction, inflammation control, and general vitality.

Historical Use:
The use of amber, which contains succinic acid, dates back thousands of years in European and Asian traditional medicine. Baltic amber was worn as jewelry or applied to the skin in the belief that it promoted healing, pain relief, and protection. In particular, amber teething necklaces have been used historically to soothe infants, and amber powder or oil infusions were applied to treat rheumatic pain, respiratory infections, and skin inflammation.

In Russian and Eastern European folk medicine, amber tinctures and compresses were used to strengthen the heart, calm the nerves, and relieve arthritis. With the isolation of succinic acid from amber in the 16th and 17th centuries, physicians of the time began experimenting with it as a general tonic and stimulant.

Succinic acid was later identified as a critical intermediate in human metabolism during the rise of biochemistry in the 20th century, particularly within the study of aerobic respiration and ATP production. This discovery deepened its significance as a bridge between ancient healing practices and modern cellular science.

Uses: Health Conditions

None

Body Systems

Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)
Mitochondria (Science)
Muscles (Science)
Nerves (Science)