Asparagine is one of the 20 most common natural amino acids on Earth. It is considered a non-essential amino acid.

Asparagine was the first amino acid to be isolated and it was obtained from asparagus juice-hence the name.

Some researchers believe this compound is responsible for the strong odor often produced in urine after asparagus is eaten. It is also thought to have a diuretic effect.

References

National Library of Medicine. Pub Chem Compound Summary. http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=6267