L-Glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the body and can be found in your muscles. It is not an essential amino acid; rather it is a semi-essential amino acid which means that it can manufacture on its own under normal circumstances. However, it can become an essential amino acid if there is trauma, burns, cancer or sepsis. This is when it must be supplemented in the body because the body can no longer produce it on its own and the demand is much greater because of these injuries. Overall though, there are many benefits of l-glutamine that can be given to the body when talking l-glutamine in supplemental form, which may not be given if it is just normally produced. L-glutamine serves as a source for fuel within the cells that line the intestines. Since it is involved in more metabolic processes then any other amino acid in the body it can be used in many different ways. Glutamine in general can pass through the protective barrier within the brain so it is often called a brain fuel. It can work to protect the body from ammonia toxicity, and it can help with the overall brain function. L-glutamine is needed for maintaining amino acid balance in the body during severe stress and it is also used by white blood cells which can build a healthy immune system. All of this together means that it can promote a healthy digestive tract, mental alertness, improve your overall mood, and can fight infection. It may even decrease sugar cravings and the desire for alcohol so it is sometimes used to help alcoholics wean off of alcohol. It also helps to prevent muscle loss that can happen with prolonged bed rest or illness such as cancer. Since certain people with cancer or even AIDS are unable to produce their own glutamine, supplements can be especially helpful during this time. Whether you have depression, irritability, gastro-intestinal disorders or you need protection of your liver tissue l-glutamine is an excellent herbal remedy that is both natural and safe to take.