Formic acid. Properties, application, what it is used for

Useful properties of formic acids were known to the ancient Chinese. They used a powder made from ants and mixed with egg and honey as a rejuvenating and healing agent.

Formic acid (methanoic acid) is an organic compound, saturated monobasic substance found in fruits, plants, human sweat, urine. In addition to ants, bees secrete acid when they bite.

It was believed that by consuming a few teaspoons of the composition a day, you can live much longer. Currently, a substance with bactericidal, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties is used in medicine, cosmetology, and the food industry.

Obtaining and composition of the substance

Formic acid (properties, use of the substance have been studied for a long time) is one of the first organic acids used by people to treat various diseases. The substance was used to make balms that relieve pain and improve well-being. In the XVII century. the English naturalist John Ray was the first to describe the colorless liquid that ants exuded when they sensed danger.

The substance is released not only by ants, but also by bees. It also contains nettles and spruce needles. A small amount of acid is present in the composition of honey, raspberries, strawberries, strawberries, cherries.

A substance with the chemical formula HCOOH has another name - methanoic acid. It belongs to the carbon group. After the substance was discovered in nature, they learned to synthesize it in the laboratory from hydrocyanic acid. A little later, a technology for its production from carbon monoxide was developed.

In modern conditions, to obtain acid (food additive E236), the method of butane oxidation under the influence of high temperature is used. Also, the additive is synthesized by heating a mixture of oxalic acid and glycerin.

It is almost impossible to find formic acid in its pure form on sale, since it is quite aggressive and, if it comes into contact with the skin, provokes severe burns. Vapors of the substance can damage the eyes and respiratory system. Acid is supplied to pharmacies in the form of an alcohol solution, where the mass fraction of the active component is 1.4%. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Available in bottles of 50 and 100 ml. The active substance is also a part of ointments, rubbing, anesthetic gels.

What is useful, scope

Formic acid (properties, its use is wide enough) has an antiseptic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory effect. This allows the substance to be used for various inflammatory diseases of joints and muscles, metabolic disorders in tissues, fungal diseases, skin pathologies.

Methanic acid is able to reduce the severity of pain due to local irritating effect, stimulate metabolic processes in tissues, activating blood flow and dilating blood vessels.

Formic acid (properties, applications are not limited to medicine) is also used in cosmetology due to its antiseptic, cleansing properties. On its basis, lotions are prepared, which are used in the fight against acne.

When used topically, the drug contributes to:

• drying the skin;
• reduce inflammation;
• cleansing pores;
• disinfection of the affected areas.

The use of hair masks with acid in the composition helps to accelerate microcirculation, prevents hair loss. Also, the substance is used in the manufacture of insect repellents. In the food industry, the E236 additive is used in small quantities in order to extend the shelf life of products. It is considered a safe preservative for health, which can be quickly eliminated from the body.

Effect on the human body, daily requirement

The substance is not vital for the human body, therefore, the daily requirement has not been established. It is important not to exceed the daily dose of acid, which is 3 mg. In those quantities in which the substance is present in products or added to them as a preservative, it is harmless to the body. High acid concentrations can be harmful to health due to corrosive action. In the permitted dosage, the substance is a good stimulant for the body. But it does not act directly, but indirectly, that is, it provokes the appearance of reactions that contribute to healing.

Who is it shown to?

An alcoholic solution of formic acid is recommended for use when:

• neuralgia, myalgia;
• rheumatism;
• arthrosis;
• skin lesions as a disinfectant;
• skin diseases, acne, boils;
• polyarthritis;
• varicose veins;
• fungal infections;
• injuries to joints, muscles to eliminate pain.

In cosmetology, the substance is used as a main or auxiliary agent for:

• inflamed acne, pimples;
• increased skin oiliness;
• the presence of spots on the skin after acne;
• damage to the nails with a fungus.

Also, the acid solution is a good prophylactic against pressure ulcers in bedridden patients. There are no clinically relevant data regarding the use of acid with other medications.

Who is it contraindicated for?

Formic acid (properties, application, contraindications must be studied in advance), if used incorrectly, can provoke negative manifestations, for example:

• allergic reactions;
• serious gastrointestinal disorders (necrotizing gastroenteritis);
• burns of the mucous membrane, skin;
• damage to the eyes, respiratory organs.

Serious complications arise if a formic acid solution with an active substance concentration of more than 10% was used. People with thin sensitive skin are advised to have a sensitivity test before using the product. To do this, lubricate the skin of the elbow with a solution from the inside and observe the reaction. Redness, irritation, which appeared 6-12 hours after that, are a sign that the remedy cannot be used.

It is contraindicated to use the drug when:

• individual intolerance;
• during the period of childbearing and breastfeeding;
• under the age of 18.

Unacceptable:

• apply the product inside, bury it in the ears and nose;
• apply to mucous membranes, use externally in the presence of ulcers and wounds on the skin;
• disinfect the skin before injection.

How is it used in medicine

The drug is most widely used in medicine due to its vasodilating, antirheumatic, antiarthritic and warming properties. It is recommended to use the acid externally in the form of an alcohol solution for joint pain, muscle pain, neuralgia. Thanks to ethanol in the composition of the product, an additional cooling and local anesthetic effect is created.

Formic acid is also a part of ointments, balms, gels, which have anti-inflammatory, regenerating properties. These drugs are used for diseases such as rheumatism, sciatica, varicose veins. The funds contribute to quick recovery from injuries, dislocations, sprains, bruises. They reduce swelling, relieve pain.

In cosmetology

Cosmetologists use acid-based drugs to:

• acne treatment;
• accelerating hair growth;
• getting an even tan when visiting a solarium.

The substance is included in various hair lotions. These products, by promoting a better blood supply to the scalp, prevent hair loss. But a positive result can be achieved only if baldness is provoked by impaired blood flow. In addition, the substance is able to slow down hair growth, thanks to which it is used in the form of an oil to remove excess vegetation.

The disinfecting, cleansing, anti-inflammatory properties of the acid are used for acne. Even with a severe form of the disease, a good result can be obtained. But the product is not recommended for use on dry skin due to its strong drying effect.

Formic acid is found in many creams that are recommended to be used before visiting a tanning bed. Thanks to the warming effect, metabolic processes in the body are activated, which contributes to obtaining a uniform and persistent tan.

In the food industry

The food industry most often uses the substance as a preservative in the manufacture of juices, vegetable, fruit purees and other products. Acid allows you to slow down the multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms, fungus in canned foods and extend their shelf life. Also, using the substance, soft drinks, fish marinades are produced.

Formic acid recipes

Formic acid (properties, use of the substance have been of interest to people since ancient times) is used for various diseases and conditions. It is important to remember to take precautions to avoid negative reactions.

Inflammatory diseases of joints and muscles

Arthritis, myalgia, neuralgia, rheumatism, thrombophlebitis, arthrosis are treated with warming compresses with formic acid solution. It helps to get rid of pain syndrome, inflammation, normalize metabolic processes in muscle and joint tissues, and improve blood circulation.

To prepare the compress, the alcoholic acid solution is diluted with water (1: 3). A natural fabric is moistened with liquid, applied to the affected area, covered with polyethylene, cotton wool and fixed with a woolen bandage.

The duration of the procedure depends on the severity of the symptoms, the severity of the therapeutic effect, and the sensitivity of the skin to the agent. If there is a strong burning sensation and itching, the warming effect decreases, the compress must be removed. Instead of a compress, you can simply rub the solution into the skin of the affected area.

Contraindications to the use of compresses:

• exacerbation of skin diseases;
• abscesses;
• high temperature.

Such treatment can also be used in the presence of injuries, tendon injuries to accelerate recovery. You can also prepare another remedy. In addition to formic alcohol, it contains tincture of capsicum and menovazin. All components are combined in equal proportions and rubbed into the affected areas several times a day, wrapped on top with a warm scarf.

Acute stage of osteochondrosis

To prepare the compress you will need:

• formic alcohol;
• camphor alcohol;
• mustard powder.

The components are combined in equal proportions, 3 whipped proteins are added, the composition is thoroughly mixed and sent to the refrigerator for 12 hours. Then 1 tbsp. l. the composition, warmed to a comfortable temperature, is applied to a cotton fabric and applied to the affected area. Remove the compress when the product is completely dry.

For acne

Formic acid destroys microorganisms that contribute to the development of inflammatory and purulent processes on the skin, stops the inflammatory process, and helps to cleanse the pores.

Application features:

• if there are single rashes on the skin, an alcoholic acid solution should be applied pointwise with a cotton swab. Skin treatment is carried out 3-4 times a day until the pimple dries up;
• if the area of ​​the rash is large, the skin is wiped with a diluted solution of formic alcohol (for 1 part of the product - 2 parts of boiled water). To avoid drying out the skin, it is necessary to lubricate it with a moisturizer between treatments.

In the course of treatment, certain rules must be observed:

• before using this method of treatment, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist;
• do not apply the product to healthy skin;
• before using the solution, you should not cleanse your face with various cosmetic products;
• the duration of therapy is no more than 2 weeks, after which it is necessary to interrupt for 2-3 weeks so that the skin has time to recover;
• the drug is not recommended for people with dry and sensitive skin;
• the simultaneous use of the drug with exfoliating agents can cause drying of the skin, the appearance of irritation;
• it should be remembered that as a result of such pore cleansing, the work of the sebaceous glands is activated, which helps to restore the disturbed balance. Therefore, owners of oily skin are advised to alternate a solution of formic acid with mild skin cleansers.

With nail fungus

In case of fungal infection of the nails, it is recommended to use a talker, which consists of:

• alcohol solution of formic acid - 2 parts;
• Dimexida - 3 parts;
• birch tar - 3 parts;
• apple cider vinegar - 3 parts.

The prepared composition is used to treat the affected areas 2-3 times a day until the signs of the disease disappear and a healthy nail plate grows back.

Formic acid antiseptic

Using formic acid, you can prepare an antiseptic at home. It should be remembered that such a product is allowed to be used only on intact skin.

Components for the preparation of an antiseptic:

Ingredient	Quantity
Formic acid	55 ml
Hydrogen peroxide	3 ml
Almond oil	2 ml

To prepare the preparation, it is enough to mix all the ingredients.

For insect bites

Mosquito bites can be treated with a point solution of formic acid (up to 6 times a day). The tool will help eliminate itching, relieve inflammation. The strong smell of the drug also repels ticks. Therefore, it can be used as a repellent by treating clothes.

Depilation

Formic acid oil can be used to remove excess hair.

Depending on the manufacturer, the product may contain various additional components, but the composition must necessarily contain:

• plant extracts (chamomile, aloe, eucalyptus, sage). They soften the product, help to avoid drying out the skin, soothe it after aggressive exposure;
• alcohol. Acts as a binding element, necessary for disinfection;
• glycerol. Gives the product viscosity, prevents the skin from drying out.

As a result of the use of formic oil, hair growth slows down, the hairs become discolored and thinner. With regular use, hair follicles are destroyed, especially if you combine the product with other drugs.

Depilatory recipes:

• with lemon juice. To prepare the product, you need to take formic oil and lemon juice (1 tsp. l.). The resulting composition is used to lubricate the skin. Lemon juice nourishes the skin, helps to narrow pores, lighten hairs;
• with turmeric. Spice promotes destruction of hair roots, while not causing irritation. It takes 1 tsp. l. pour turmeric with water (1 tbsp.), add formic oil (0.5 tsp. l.). The composition is applied to the skin, covered with cling film on top.

The procedures are done daily for 5 days, after which they are interrupted for 1 month and the course is repeated. To get rid of hair completely, masks need to be used throughout the year.

To slow down hair growth, use the following recipes:

• combine mint, formic oils, green tea oil (0.5 tsp each) l.). This product delicately cares for the skin, makes it soft;
• mix the formic oil (1 tsp. l.) with white grape juice (2 tbsp. l.). Thanks to the fruit acids in the grape juice, the hairs become thinner and lighter.

These masks are recommended for use after epilation.

The result can be seen after the second procedure, if done correctly:

• oil formulations are applied after high-quality hair removal. Hair must be removed from the roots, so the procedure is best done with wax or sugar paste. Hair removal with a razor or special creams is not suitable, since in this case the skin will not be sufficiently prepared for the use of the product;
• it is important to wash off the products that were used for epilation well and dry the skin thoroughly;
• the oil composition should be applied with massage movements. The product is left for 5-10 minutes, then washed off with baby soap;
• after the procedure, it is recommended to use a light soothing cream.

Formic acid for the treatment of bees

Varroatosis is a common and dangerous parasitic disease of bees. The cause of its development is the Varroa Jacobsoni mite. Affected insects are unable to fully live and reproduce, the protective properties of their body are lost, and the life expectancy is halved. The pathology is not infectious, but it spreads quickly and easily, increasing insect mortality.

For treatment, formic acid is used. It is safe for bees and does not accumulate in honey. A polyethylene lid filled with formic acid (30 ml) is placed in the hive, covered with cardboard. The procedure is carried out in the spring at an air temperature of 14 to 25 ° C.

Formic acid is a popular remedy for the treatment of skin diseases, joint and muscle pathologies, and fungal infections. The substance has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic properties, effectively eliminates pain syndrome, stimulates metabolic processes in tissues, and activates blood flow. To avoid negative consequences, the use of the product must be approached with caution, taking into account the rules for its use and possible contraindications.

Video about formic acid

Useful properties and uses of formic acid: