Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA; thioctic acid; lipoic acid) is a potent antioxidant that combats oxidative stress and is capable of chelation of metal ions, reparation of oxidized proteins, and regeneration of antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, tocopherol, and glutathione. ALA (fat soluble) and its reduced counterpart, dihyolipoic acid (DHLA) have proven effectiveness in both lipophilic and aqueous environments.

ALA adds to the antioxidant efficiency of vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione. In addition to this, ALA assists some important enzymes that are responsible for the conversion of food into energy.

In the modern city, free radicals are almost omnipresent; they have their potential sources in the environment, such as car exhaust, radiation, and ultraviolet rays. ALA helps the body in the ongoing fight against the toxic effects of free radicals. ALA has its benefit revealed in a number of diseases and disorders. Its usage slows the aging process, helps the liver to remove toxins, and decreases the adverse effects associated with some analgesic drugs. It also holds the efficiency of effectively removing glucose from the blood.

ALA shows its therapeutic benefit in complications associated with diabetes, such as macular degeneration, neuropathy, and cataracts. It has been found to be capable enough to reduce the symptoms associated with nerve damage (i.e. burning, pain, numbness) in diabetic patients. Because of its efficiency to cross the blood-brain barrier, the benefit of ALA in stroke and other brain disorders is probable. ALA is also of benefit in the treatment of HIV-AIDS, cancer, cognitive decline, and cardiovascular disease.