NOW L-Glutamine Powder is a pure, free-form, non-essential, amino acid and is the highest grade available. Glutamine is considered to be a conditionally essential amino acid, which means that under certain circumstances, the body may require more glutamine than it can produce. In the body, glutamine functions as a major nitrogen transporter and is critical for the maintenance of healthy nitrogen balance.* Glutamine also acts as the primary fuel for the rapidly growing cells of the immune system and GI tract.* Natural color variation may occur in this product. Take 1 rounded teaspoon in juice, preferably between meals, 1 to 2 times daily as needed.