Malic acid is a naturally occurring substance in apples and many other fruits and plants. It is also found in plants and animals, including humans. It is an essential ingredient in the energy production process. Malic acid, in the form of its anion malate, is a key intermediate in the major biochemical energy-producing cycle in cells known as the citric acid or Krebs cycle located in the cells' mitochondria.
Malic acid is also critical in decreasing the toxic effects of aluminum.
Lab studies show that many patients with Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have low magnesium levels. Magnesium supplementation enhances the treatment of both conditions. Its benefits appear to result, at least in part, from its positive impact on serotonin function.
When combined with magnesium, malic acid is believed to be very effective as a cleansing and healing agent for Fibromyalgia (FMS) and other systemic conditions. (Magnesium is a key mineral cofactor for many anaerobic as well as aerobic reactions that generate energy, and has an oxygen-sparing effect. It is essential for the cell's mitochondria "powerhouses" to function normally, being involved in both the production and utilization of ATP.)
Malic acid is a naturally occuring asymmetric, organic, dicagoxylic acid molecule. Malic acid, also known as apple acid, hydroxybutanedioic acid and hydroxysuccinic acid, is a chiral molecule. The naturally occurring stereoisomer is the L-form. The L-form is also the biologically active one. Malic acid is an alpha-hydroxy organic acid, and is sometimes referred to as a fruit acid. This is because malic acid is found in apples and other fruits.
Malic acid can be purchased in supplemental form and is often used by people suffering from Fibromyalgia. Because it is mainly derived from apples, it is therefore in the L-form.