Sometimes little miracles come along that change everything. One of them, 5-HTP, began as a remedy for one thing and turned out to be a gift beyond value. Necessary Caveat: Herbs, minerals, and other natural supplements are as powerful and sometimes as dangerous as any medically prescribed drug. Although 5-HTP has been a blessing for me, before you even consider trying it, consult your medical care practitioner. This is especially critical if you are taking any other kind of medication. I first read about 5-HTP as a natural supplement that would help eliminate my relentless afternoon cravings for carbohydrates. As is my habit, I researched every link I could find and discovered that 5-HTP was also thought to help regulate moods, promote healthy sleep, and mitigate anxiety. I figured if it did even one of those things well, without side effects, it would be a godsend. But all of the above? 
Nature packed quite a wallop into the seed of this African plant. In addition to all of the virtues I listed, Griffonia simplicifolia may also lower the risk of heart disease and help with chronic pain. 5-HTP works much like modern synthetic anti-depressants by increasing the amount of serotonin available to the brain. Serotonin is a prime neural chemical that regulates mood and sleep, among other things, the depletion of which is a huge contributor to depression and in my case, manic episodes. As I’ve mentioned before, alternative remedies have been my saving graces, because so many pharmaceuticals are unwelcome to my system. But 5-HTP is a balm to my psyche ~ a walk in the woods in a capsule. 
Perhaps it’s my attunement with Nature that makes my body more receptive to herbs and things of the earth. Maybe I instinctively “pick up” on the living frequency still inherent in the supplement, and I respond on an elemental level. Maybe that’s why I experience negligible side effects and immense relief. I can only report that during my years of experience with 5-HTP, I’ve staved off manic spikes, achieved much better sleep, substantially trimmed my waistline, and manage my well-being more easily and dependably than with anything else I have tried. 5-HTP is part of my daily regime and a gift I will always give to myself. 
Kitty R. Connell
My Blog I
My Blog II
My Website
| 
