L-glutathione
Synopsis of l-glutathione
L-Glutathione is a powerful tripeptide composed of three amino acids: glutamine, cysteine, and glycine, and it is one of the body’s most important intracellular antioxidants and detoxifying agents. It is naturally produced in the liver and found in nearly every cell in the body, where it plays a central role in neutralizing free radicals, recycling other antioxidants (like vitamins C and E), supporting immune health, and detoxifying heavy metals and xenobiotics. Often called the body's “master antioxidant,” L-glutathione is critical for maintaining cellular health, longevity, and disease resistance.
Key biological actions:
- Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduces oxidative stress
- Regenerates other antioxidants, including vitamin C, E, and alpha-lipoic acid
- Supports liver detoxification, especially in phase II conjugation processes
- Modulates immune function, helping balance inflammation and immune defense
- Plays a role in DNA synthesis, protein repair, and enzyme activation
Forms and bioavailability:
- Reduced glutathione (GSH) – the active, antioxidant form found in supplements
- Liposomal glutathione – encased in lipid spheres for improved absorption
- Precursors (e.g., NAC, glycine, glutamine) – support the body’s natural production
- S-acetyl glutathione – a stable, highly bioavailable oral form
Health benefits and uses:
- Supports liver function and detox pathways, especially in cases of toxin exposure, alcohol use, or medication burden
- Reduces oxidative stress related to aging, inflammation, and chronic diseases
- Protects skin from UV damage, improves pigmentation, and is used for skin brightening
- Enhances energy metabolism by protecting mitochondria from oxidative damage
- May benefit neurological health, including in conditions like Parkinson’s, by preserving brain cell integrity
- Used in some protocols to support immune recovery or autoimmune regulation
Historical and Medical Context:
L-glutathione was first discovered in the early 20th century, but its importance rose significantly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries with growing research in antioxidant defense and detoxification biology. While not found in traditional herbal systems by name, the concept of supporting the liver and protecting the body from toxins has long been present in Ayurveda, TCM, and naturopathy—L-glutathione simply represents the biochemical execution of many of those ancient principles.
Today, L-glutathione is widely used in integrative medicine, anti-aging protocols, detoxification programs, and skin health regimens, either through oral supplements, IV infusions, or topical products, reinforcing its reputation as a cornerstone of cellular defense and longevity.
L-glutathione is used for these health conditions
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Scientific)
Autoimmune Disorders (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cirrhosis of the Liver (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Hepatitis (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Scientific)
Nerve Damage (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Peripheral Neuropathy (Scientific)
Radiation Sickness (Scientific)
Sickle Cell Anemia (Scientific)
Skin Care (general) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
l-glutathione is used to support these body systems
Blood (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Hepatic System (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Kidneys (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Lungs (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Respiratory System (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
