5-HTP As an Alternative Treatment for Anxiety & Depression

Herbs can be used to treat depression. One such herb is 5-HTP. It is important to know what 5-HTP is, how it works and how much to take. Also, there are precautions with taking 5-HTP. By knowing all of this information, you can be an informed patient and consumer.

Definition

• Five-HTP is considered to be an herb. It also can be categorized as a food supplement as it is an amino acid. The chemical name for 5-HTP is hydroxytryptophan. It is similar to the more commonly known amino acid tryptophan , which is found in dietary proteins and other foods such as turkey. Five-HTP also is similar to serotonin, which is related with moods and depression in humans. It can be used both for treatment of deperssion and anxiety disorders.

How It Works

• Depression is related to a decrease in serotonin in the central nervous system and brain. Five-HTP uses the tryptophan and transfers it into serotonin. Serotonin is often lacking in patients who suffer from depression. The 5 HTP raises the serotonin level, which in turn improves mood and depression symptoms.
  Recommended doses vary, depending on manufacturer of the 5 HTP, but the usual beginning dose is 100 milligrams per day. Some companies suggest increasing usage till the maximum dosage of 100 milligrams, three times a day is achieved.

Related Research

• According to Dr. Michael Murry, who wrote "5-HTP: The Natural Way to Overcome Depression, Obesity and Insomnia," 5-HTP can be effective for patients who do not respond to traditional treatments for depression. According to a study, 99 patients were given doses of 5-HTP ranging from 50 to 600 milligrams per day. The average dose was 200 milligrams per day. After treatment, 43 of the 99 patients reported complete recovery from their depression. An additional eight people stated that they had seen a marked improvement.

5-HTP for Anxiety

• Five-HTP can also be used for anxiety and anxiety attacks. According to Dr. Edward R. Rosick, using 5-HTP can help alleviate or decrease anxiety in patients who use it on a regular basis. The premise is the same as with depression. Five-HTP works by increasing serotonin in the brain, which in turn improves moods related to stress and anxiety attacks.