Taurine is a type of amino acid found throughout the body. It is particularly concentrated in the brain, eyes, heart, and muscles. Unlike most other amino acids, it is not used to build proteins in the body. It is classified as a "conditionally essential" amino acid. Your body can produce some amount of taurine, and it is also found in some foods.

However, certain individuals may benefit from taking a supplement. Those with specific illnesses or diseases, such as heart issues or diabetes, may also benefit from the additional taurine intake. Despite common belief, this amino acid is not extracted from bull urine or bull semen. The name is derived from the Latin word Taurus, which means ox or bull, so that may be the source of the confusion.