Valine is an amino acid obtained by hydrolysis of proteins and was first isolated by the German chemist Emil Fischer in 1901 from casein and is not only an essential amino acid but is also a branched-chain amino acid (the others are Isoleucine and Leucine) found in high concentration in the muscles. It has a stimulating effect and is needed for muscle metabolism, repair and growth of tissue and maintaining the nitrogen balance in the body. Since it is a branched-chain amino acid, it can be used as an energy source in the muscles, and in doing so preserves the use of glucose. Many amino acids become deficient with drug addiction, and here it also plays an important role and there are indications that it may also be beneficial in treating or reversing hepatic encephalopathy, or alcohol related brain damage, as well as degenerative neurological conditions.

Valine is often used by bodybuilders, (in conjunction with Leucine and Isoleucine), to promote muscle growth, tissue repair and energizer, although little scientific evidence supports these claims.

Jo Mar's L-Valine is 100% pure U.S.P. grade crystalline free form. The powder is not water soluble, has a bitter-sweet taste and weighs about 3.8 grams per level measuring teaspoon.