Urinämne

Urinämne is a Swedish term that translates to urea in English. Urea is an organic compound with the chemical formula CO(NH₂)₂. It is a colorless, crystalline substance that is highly soluble in water. In biological systems, urea is the primary nitrogenous waste product excreted by mammals, formed in the liver from the breakdown of proteins. The urea cycle is the metabolic pathway that converts ammonia, a highly toxic byproduct of protein catabolism, into urea, which is much less toxic and can be safely transported in the blood to the kidneys for excretion in urine.

The presence of urea in urine is a key indicator of kidney function. Elevated levels can suggest impaired kidney filtration, while low levels might indicate overhydration or a low-protein diet. Beyond its role in waste excretion, urea has various industrial and medical applications. It is a common ingredient in fertilizers due to its high nitrogen content, which is essential for plant growth. In cosmetics and skincare, urea is used as a humectant, meaning it helps the skin retain moisture. It is also found in some dermatological treatments for conditions like eczema and psoriasis, where its moisturizing and exfoliating properties can be beneficial. The production of urea is a significant part of the chemical industry, with large-scale synthesis processes ensuring its availability for diverse uses.