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Mood management
Lithium Carbonate Background and Benefits
Lithium carbonate is a chemical compound with the formula Li2CO3. It is a salt that occurs only in anhydrous form due to its relatively low solubility in water. However, this solubility increases greatly in the presence of carbon dioxide.
The extraction of lithium carbonate from natural minerals generally involves the use of pressurized carbon dioxide to dissolve the lithium carbonate. Releasing the pressure then allows lithium carbonate to precipitate out of solution. This procedure is formally known as the Quebec process, which is commonly used to extract commercial quantities of lithium carbonate from the mineral pegmatite.
Lithium carbonate has many industrial uses, especially in the processing of metal oxides. It is also used to make glass ovenware due to its high heat tolerance and durability. Adhesives often contain lithium carbonate to make them dry more quickly.
The first known health-related use of lithium carbonate was in 1843, when it was used for bladder stones. It was also used for other ailments such as gout, rheumatism, headaches and mood disorders as early as 1859. John Cade established the effectiveness lithium against bipolar disorder beginning in 1948, which is still its most common health application. The primary biochemical action of lithium carbonate is to inhibit the transportation of metal ions, which are used to transmit electrochemical messages to the brain. Foods high in lithium include milk and eggs.
Uses of Lithium Carbonate
The best-known use of lithium carbonate in health supplements is the management of moods. It may also help to support metabolic syndrome, retain minerals and manage occasional headaches.
Mood support
Lithium carbonate may help to stabilize mood swings and other behavioral extremes. The general mechanism of this effect is the regulation of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Mineral retention
Lithium carbonate may help to maintain a healthy balance of calcium, magnesium and phosphate in the body.
Headache support
Lithium may help to manage occasional headaches and discomfort.
Metabolic syndrome support
Some research shows that lithium carbonate may help to transport and metabolize glucose. This effect helps to manage metabolic syndrome in some cases.
Signs You May Need Lithium Carbonate
Extreme mood swings are the strongest indication that you may benefit from lithium carbonate. Additional psychological signs that may mean you need lithium carbonate include anxiousness, irritability and aggressive behavior. An exaggerated sense of well-being and rapid speech may also mean that lithium carbonate can help you. Physical signs that you may benefit from lithium carbonate include metabolic syndrome and a high level of minerals in your urine.
