Alpha-lipoic acid exists in two forms, R and S, but only the R form is naturally present in the human body. The major issue with this form is its instability to heat and light, causing rapid degradation during storage. Sodium R-lipoate solves this problem through a specific bond to sodium that preserves the full biological activity of the R enantiomer without deterioration. This stabilisation brings several measurable advantages: bioavailability up to 21 times higher than standard alpha-lipoic acid, no polymerisation even at temperatures above 150°C, and improved water solubility for easier intestinal absorption.

The quality of this supplement rests on a patented process guaranteeing an R chirality above 99.4%. This exceptional purity sets this product apart from standard alpha-lipoic acids, which generally contain a mix of R and S forms, of which only the R form has genuine biological activity. The extraction process completely eliminates organic solvents, heavy metals and unwanted chemical residues. The formulation excludes any excipient, additive, magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide or endocrine disruptor. The capsule shell is made of pullulan, a plant-based polymer suitable for vegans.

Main composition: sodium R-lipoate (R-alpha-lipoic acid). Source: patented process, R chirality above 99.4%. Dosage: 100 mg per capsule. Shell: plant-based pullulan capsule. Excipients: none. Origin: packaged in France, controlled laboratory. Tolerance: no GMOs, vegan, no major allergens. Stability: room temperature, no refrigeration needed.

The standard dose is between 1 and 3 capsules per day (100 to 300 mg), adjusted according to individual needs. Taking it away from meals favours faster absorption. Start with one capsule a day during the first week, then increase gradually if needed. To optimise the antioxidant effect, combining with other complementary nutrients such as coenzyme Q10, plant polyphenols, milk thistle silybin or omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) can be worthwhile.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice. If on medication, consult a healthcare professional before supplementing.

What is the difference between sodium R-lipoate and ordinary alpha-lipoic acid?

Sodium R-lipoate offers significantly greater chemical stability than traditional alpha-lipoic acid. Thanks to its sodium bond, the molecule is protected from polymerisation and its digestive bioavailability is considerably increased. While standard alpha-lipoic acid contains a mix of R and S forms, sodium R-lipoate guarantees an R chirality above 99.4%.

Which other molecules does sodium R-lipoate work well with?

This supplement pairs ideally with coenzyme Q10, dry silymarin extracts, or sources of DHA/EPA. Plant polyphenols and milk thistle silybin also complement this supplementation well.

Does sodium R-lipoate need to be refrigerated?

No, this is precisely one of the major advantages of this stabilised form. Unlike pure R-alpha-lipoic acid, which degrades easily at room temperature, sodium R-lipoate remains perfectly stable without refrigeration.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.