alpha-lipoic acid was discovered over 40 years ago & was originally thought of as a vitamin; however when researchers found that our bodies could synthesize it the status of ‘vitamin’ was lost. however a dietary source of alpha-lipoic acid is still important & it is found in almost all foods especially in kidney liver spinach & broccoli.for a while it was the subject of rave reviews in some newspapers along with acetyl-l-carnitine as it was billed as an 'elixir of life'. we don't think it's that but we do think it is a powerful antioxidant that the body uses to mop up excess free radicals the reactive chemicals that can damage our cells.alpha-lipoic acid has been the focus of a great deal of research much of which is fascinating & far too detailed to describe here. an online search is therefore highly recommended.this product is excellent value for your money compared to many other brands.diabetics please read the cautions section.fantastic value for moneyhigh quality grade at a very competitive pricepotent antioxidanta key part of the body’s defence against free radicals