Alpha-lipoic acid is a vitamin-like chemical called an antioxidant. Yeast, liver, kidney, spinach, broccoli, and potato are good sources of alpha-lipoic acid. It is also made for use as a medicine in the laboratory.

Alpha-lipoic acid is most commonly taken orally for diabetes and nerve-related diabetes symptoms such as burning, pain, and numbness in the legs and arms. High doses of alpha-lipoic acid have been approved in Germany for the treatment of these nerve-related symptoms. Alpha-lipoic acid helps prevent certain types of cell damage in the body and also restores vitamin levels such as vitamin E and vitamin C. There is evidence that alfa-lipoic acid can increase the function and conductivity of neurons in diabetes.

Also, alpha-lipoic acid is used in the body to break down carbohydrates and make energy for other organs in the body, and alpha-lipoic acid works as an antioxidant, which means it can provide protection to the brain under conditions of damage or injury. Antioxidant effects can also help with some liver diseases.