L-glutathione

Other names
Synopsis
Uses: Health Conditions
Uses: Body Systems
Products

Other names

Reduced Glutathione (GSH)
Setria® Glutathione (branded form)
Liposomal Glutathione

Synopsis

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.

Uses: Health Conditions

None

Body Systems

Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)
Mitochondria (Science)
Skin (Science)

Products containing this ingredient

Health Concerns

Brands