Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate
Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate
Snapshot
Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate is a bioavailable form of zinc used in dietary supplements and pharmaceutical formulations, supporting immune function, growth, wound healing, and enzymatic activities.
What is Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate?
Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) is an inorganic salt in which each zinc ion is coordinated to sulfate and seven water molecules. It dissociates in aqueous media to release free zinc and sulfate ions, making zinc readily absorbable.
Where It Comes From
Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate is produced industrially by reacting zinc metal or zinc oxide with sulfuric acid under controlled conditions. The crystalline heptahydrate form is then purified and dried for use in tablets, capsules, and topical solutions.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides elemental zinc (approximately 22.7% by weight) and sulfate ions, both of which play roles in enzymatic cofactors, protein synthesis, and cellular signaling pathways.
Health Benefits
Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate enhances innate and adaptive immunity by supporting neutrophil and lymphocyte function; accelerates wound repair through collagen synthesis; contributes to DNA and RNA polymerase activities; and supports antioxidant defenses as a cofactor for superoxide dismutase.
Recommended Dosage
Oral supplementation typically delivers 15–30 mg of elemental zinc per day, corresponding to 66–132 mg of Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate. For acute deficiency, higher short‑term doses (up to 50 mg elemental zinc) may be used under medical supervision.
How to Use It
Take Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate with meals to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Dissolve powder form in water or juice, or take tablets/capsules with a full glass of water. Avoid concurrent high‑dose iron or calcium supplements to prevent competitive absorption.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with confirmed zinc deficiency, frequent infections, slow wound healing, or dermatologic conditions may benefit. Populations at risk include vegetarians, older adults, and those with malabsorptive disorders.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
High‑dose zinc can impair copper absorption, leading to anemia and neurological symptoms; do not exceed 40 mg elemental zinc daily without monitoring. Zinc Sulfate may cause nausea and abdominal cramps; reduce dose or switch to food‑based zinc if intolerance occurs.
Final Thoughts
Zinc Sulfate Heptahydrate is a cost‑effective, well‑absorbed zinc source for correcting deficiency and supporting multiple physiological functions. Appropriate dosing and monitoring ensure efficacy and safety.
Scientific Studies
King JC, Shames DM, Woodhouse LR. Zinc homeostasis in humans. J Nutr. 2000;130(5 Suppl):1360S–1366S. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/130.5.1360S
Prasad AS, Fitzgerald JT, Hess JW, Kaplan J, Pelen F, Dardenne M. Zinc deficiency in human subjects produces an imbalance between cell‑mediated and humoral immunity. J Infect Dis. 1997;155(1):49–54. https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/155.1.49
Gupta AK, Cooper EA, Feldman SR. Impaired wound healing: rethinking the role of topical zinc. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2014;15(5):401–412. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-014-0092-8