Alpha-lipoic acid consists of two different forms (isomers) that have vastly different properties. The R form is the biologically active component (native to the body) that is responsible for lipoic acid’s phenomenal antioxidant effect. The S form is produced from chemical manufacture and is not very biologically active. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements typically consist of the R and S form in a 50/50 ratio. That means a 100 mg alpha-lipoic acid supplement is providing 50 mg of the biologically active R form.

The human body normally produces and uses the R form of lipoic acid. This active form, R-lipoic acid, significantly supports healthy inflammatory response1-3, is a potent free-radical scavenger and has been shown to be more potent than the combined “R” and “S” forms that ordinarily comprise alpha-lipoic acid supplements.4-11