Ingredients

5-HTP

5-HTP is a promising chemical derivative of the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is found in meats, particularly turkey, and synthesized with vitamin B6 and other amino acids into the essential neurotransmitter serotonin. The ever expanding benefits of 5-HTP are still being weighed because the effects and importance of serotonin on brain and mood functioning are increasingly being recognized and researched within the scientific community.

Description

With the help of supplemental 5-HTP, the brain chemically responds by increasing serotonin production. This increase in the release of serotonin may help with a variety of ailments ranging from depression to chronic pain. In some studies, 5-HTP was shown to be as effective as anti-depressants, with fewer side effects and dependency risk.

Benefits

The benefits of 5-HTP are directly linked to increased serotonin levels. The connection between 5-HTP, the intermediary between tryptophan and serotonin has already been established. Here are just a few of the links between an increase in serotonin and an increase in well being:

Better sleep patterns
Pain control, particularly in Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia sufferers
Migraine reduction
Improved mood
In one study, 5-HTP showed an almost 85% success rate in ridding children of night terrors within six months

Safety Notes

From the FDA:

August 31, 1998 IMPURITIES CONFIRMED IN DIETARY SUPPLEMENT 5-HYDROXY-L-TRYPTOPHAN

FDA scientists have confirmed the presence of impurities in some 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5HTP) products currently marketed and widely promoted as dietary supplements. These products are being used as aids for insomnia, depression, obesity, and in children with attention deficit disorder. FDA's analytical results are consistent with those obtained and published by researchers from the Mayo Clinic.

One of these impurities is known as "peak X." Although the significance of finding "peak X" and other impurities in dietary supplements containing 5-HTP is unknown, past experiences with these products suggests vigilance is warranted. "Peak X" was identified in one case of the illness eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS) associated with 5HTP in 1991. Impurities similar to "peak X" were also found in L-tryptophan that was associated with a 1989 epidemic of EMS. 5HTP and L-tryptophan are related in that 5HTP is synthesized from L-tryptophan in the body. The exact cause of the 1989 epidemic and of the case of EMS associated with 5HTP remain unclear.

Should you decide to use 5-HTP, the typical dose is 300-900 mg per day (usually 2-3 times throughout the day). Orovo recommends that you consult a physician before you begin taking any new health supplement blend.