If glutathione seems familiar, perhaps you’ve encountered it in an ad for a certain beauty product. While it’s true that it does wonders on the complexion, there are many other things it can do. Read on to learn more about this substance. The following are some frequently asked questions about it.

What is it?

Glutathione is naturally produced by the body, particularly in the liver. Just about every cell needs and uses it. In fact, high concentrations of it can be found within the cells themselves. It’s a type of protein, consisting of glycine, cysteine and glutamic acid. Hence, it’s known as a tripeptide.

It can also be synthesized and extracted. When purified, it takes the form of a white powder. As an antioxidant, it can provide numerous benefits to the body. And it’s not surprising why it’s increasing in popularity, so much so that many beauty products cash in on it.

What’s an antioxidant and what is its function?

An antioxidant is any substance which helps in preventing or slowing down oxidation processes taking place in the body. Oxidation, just like rusting, happens when the body uses oxygen for doing various chemical processes. As by-products, free radicals are released, and can form a build-up over time.

Free radicals are unstable molecules. They move around until they can snatch electrons from other cells to make themselves stable. This process of snatching electrons damages healthy cells. That’s why free radicals are known to be responsible for aging and certain diseases. Antioxidants hunt down free radicals and destroy them.

What are glutathione’s benefits?

Since it’s an antioxidant, it helps in getting rid of free radicals. It is said that it’s the best substance to do so since it’s situated right inside the cells to protect it. However, glutathione’s role does not end there, as there are many others. That’s why some hail it as the mother of all antioxidants.

People suffering from certain illnesses and disorders achieve positive effects from glutathione therapy. Some of these health-problems include cystic fibrosis, macular degeneration, toxicity to heavy metals and other substances, and various lung problems. It also provides some favorable effects on high blood pressure, cancers, HIV and Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

How did it make its way to beauty products?

Because it helps in stopping or delaying the signs of aging, it’s not really impossible that it would soon be used for manufacturing of beauty products. Those who take this antioxidant in tablet or capsule form observe some incredible effects on their skin. It’s become fairer, and it also has an unmistakable youthful glow.

Any skin problem involving excessive pigmentation is resolved by this incredible antioxidant. People swear by its effectiveness in getting rid of freckles, age spots, dark skin areas, scars, melasma and others. Because people naturally like to look their best, it’s not at all surprising why skin care products containing this substance sell like hotcakes.

How is it administered or supplemented?

For the treatment of certain diseases and health-related problems, it may be administered in a number of ways. It may be introduced into the body intravenously, or through the vein. But then it may also be injected into the muscles, or inhaled as in the form of an aerosol.

Glutathione may also be taken by mouth, as a dietary supplement. But some experts claim that this is not the best way for its supplementation. It’s because the GI tract does not efficiently absorb this antioxidant. It’s applied topically when used as the main ingredient by beauty products, such as soaps and lotions.

Since the immune system is one of the most important parts to staying healthy and fighting against sickness, you should read about Glutathione. These tiny proteins play important role to your immune system, you should read information.