Lipoic acid is often referred to as the “universal antioxidant” because it fulfills more of the desired role of an antioxidant than any other compound. It is unique in its ability to deactivate both fat and water soluble free radicals, thereby protecting both lipoproteins and membranes and it can also regenerate several other antioxidants back to their active states, including vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and Co-Q10.
In 2000 AOR introduced the worlds first R(+)-lipoic acid supplement containing only the natural form of this versatile antioxidant. The R(+)- enantiomer is the sole form produced in the body for use in the mitochondria.
Conventional “lipoic acid” or “alpha-lipoic acid” supplements are typically only 50% R(+)-lipoic acid; the other half of such supplements are made up of the artificial S(-)-form. Research has demonstrated that R(+)-lipoic acid is more potent than S(-)- lipoic acid, and that in some cases, the artificial form actually interferes with the natural form’s actions in the body.
When considering an antioxidant, R(+)-lipoic acid gives you the opportunity to use what is currently regarded as the “gold standard” in antioxidants