Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 14 Reviews
8.3
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calcium (as Dibasic Calcium Phosphate)
32 mg
2%
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)[from Griffonia simplicifolia) (seed)
100 mg
*
Top Medical Research Studies
9
We explored the impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) as a treatment for depression through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.
Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.
Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.
Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.
Read More
8
We explored how changes in gut microbiota due to chronic stress impact the effectiveness of depression treatments like fluoxetine. In our study, gut microbiota from stressed mice transferred to healthy ones resulted in behaviors resembling despair and reduced neurogenesis in the brain.
Importantly, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) treatment improved serotonin levels, enhanced neurogenesis, and alleviated feelings of despair. These findings suggest that 5-HTP could be beneficial in managing depression, especially when standard medications are less effective due to stress-related gut changes.
Importantly, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) treatment improved serotonin levels, enhanced neurogenesis, and alleviated feelings of despair. These findings suggest that 5-HTP could be beneficial in managing depression, especially when standard medications are less effective due to stress-related gut changes.
Read More
7
We explored how 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) affects depression and apathy in individuals with Parkinson's disease. By conducting a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 25 participants, we compared the effects of 50 mg of 5-HTP to a placebo over four weeks.
Our findings suggest that 5-HTP may offer clinical benefits for alleviating depressive symptoms. However, larger and longer studies are necessary to confirm these promising results.
Our findings suggest that 5-HTP may offer clinical benefits for alleviating depressive symptoms. However, larger and longer studies are necessary to confirm these promising results.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
10
Lifesaver for depression
10 people found this helpful
This product is the best thing I've done to fight my depression. One pill each morning works wonders all day long. After suffering for nearly fifteen years with depression, this affordable product has provided real results.
Read More
7.5
Psyche betterment achieved
10 people found this helpful
I used this when I was in a severe state of depression. It responded well for me, and my mental state improved. It's wise to read precautions and consult a doctor before using it. Thank you for asking.
Read More
10
Balanced my emotions
5 people found this helpful
This supplement enhances the nervous system's function and soothes it. Being an amino acid that generates serotonin, it promotes overall health, eliminating depression and fostering a calm, balanced state without antidepressants. I recommend it to everyone.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.9
- All Researches
9
We explored how whey protein isolate (WPI) affects depression-like symptoms in mice with breast tumors. Over 21 days, tumor-bearing mice received daily WPI doses, and the results were promising. While WPI did not change tumor size, it significantly reduced depression-like behavior.
Mice displayed increased movement in open spaces and improved responses in tests for anxiety and preference, indicating positive mental health effects. WPI also enhanced brain levels of essential neurotransmitters and positively shifted gut bacteria profiles. Overall, the study suggests that WPI might help alleviate cancer-related depression.
Mice displayed increased movement in open spaces and improved responses in tests for anxiety and preference, indicating positive mental health effects. WPI also enhanced brain levels of essential neurotransmitters and positively shifted gut bacteria profiles. Overall, the study suggests that WPI might help alleviate cancer-related depression.
Read More
9
We explored the impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) as a treatment for depression through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.
Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.
Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.
Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.
Read More
8
We explored the potential of FeO nanoparticles to improve serotonin synthesis in the brain, which is crucial for managing depression. These nanoparticles, enhanced with chitosan for better delivery, mimic the activity of the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase.
In our research, we observed that the FeO@CS treatment reinstated levels of serotonin and 5-hydroxytryptophan in a mouse model of depression. This led to significant improvements in behaviors typical of depressive conditions.
The innovative approach of using nanozymes to reactivate serotonin pathways shows promise in the quest for effective depression treatments.
In our research, we observed that the FeO@CS treatment reinstated levels of serotonin and 5-hydroxytryptophan in a mouse model of depression. This led to significant improvements in behaviors typical of depressive conditions.
The innovative approach of using nanozymes to reactivate serotonin pathways shows promise in the quest for effective depression treatments.
Read More
8
Serotonergic antidepressant effects observed
We aimed to explore the antidepressant-like effects of a standardized extract from the barks of (Willd) Poir. in mice. Using various behavioral tests, we found that this extract shows promise in reducing depression symptoms, particularly via serotonin receptors, without relying on harmine.
While the extract has demonstrated positive effects in the tail suspension and forced swim tests, it did not significantly impact the open field test. Our findings suggest that the extract may enhance serotonin activity, marking a potentially effective new avenue for depression treatment.
While the extract has demonstrated positive effects in the tail suspension and forced swim tests, it did not significantly impact the open field test. Our findings suggest that the extract may enhance serotonin activity, marking a potentially effective new avenue for depression treatment.
Read More
8
We examined the effects of the probiotic strain WHH2078 on depression and anxiety in mice exposed to chronic stress. After five weeks of treatment, we found that WHH2078 significantly reduced signs of depression and anxiety, demonstrated through various behavioral tests.
The strain also boosted levels of important neurotransmitters related to mood, such as serotonin and its precursor, 5-HTP. By improving these levels and benefiting gut microbiome health, WHH2078 presents itself as a potential player in tackling depression linked to chronic stress.
The strain also boosted levels of important neurotransmitters related to mood, such as serotonin and its precursor, 5-HTP. By improving these levels and benefiting gut microbiome health, WHH2078 presents itself as a potential player in tackling depression linked to chronic stress.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 14 Reviews
8.3
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
10
Lifesaver for depression
10 people found this helpful
This product is the best thing I've done to fight my depression. One pill each morning works wonders all day long. After suffering for nearly fifteen years with depression, this affordable product has provided real results.
Read More
7.5
Psyche betterment achieved
10 people found this helpful
I used this when I was in a severe state of depression. It responded well for me, and my mental state improved. It's wise to read precautions and consult a doctor before using it. Thank you for asking.
Read More
10
Balanced my emotions
5 people found this helpful
This supplement enhances the nervous system's function and soothes it. Being an amino acid that generates serotonin, it promotes overall health, eliminating depression and fostering a calm, balanced state without antidepressants. I recommend it to everyone.
Read More
9
Relieves depression
1 people found this helpful
This 5-HTP is a fantastic product. It helps me alleviate my depression and calm my mind. Compared to ordinary antidepressants, it has almost no side effects when taken with a meal. Additionally, it assists me in controlling my appetite. The great thing about Natrol's 5-HTP is that it is time-released.
Read More
9
Serotonin boost achieved
The main function of 5-HTP is to increase serotonin, improve depression, and soothe mood.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Improved mood
I suffer from PMDD in the form of depression before my period. It's tough to manage monthly. Birth control has side effects, and my OBGYN suggested SSRIs, which I wish to avoid. I discovered 5-HTP and decided to try it as it is a timed release. After a few days, I noticed it helped make my mood and stress more manageable. I now use 100mg on normal days and 200mg during my depressive week.
7.5
Early effectiveness
3 people found this helpful
I started to see effects shortly after taking this for my depression. I usually take the time-released version, and if I feel overly excited, I switch to immediate release.
7.5
Supports feelings
The time release is beneficial. I was suffering from the lethargy of winter depression and decided to give it a try. While it doesn't have the dramatic effects of psychiatric medications, it has no side effects and feels like it supports my emotions. I find that about 100 mg works well for me.
0
No effect
I used it for depression, but it had no effect on me at all. I truly hope it works for others.
10
Lifesaver for depression
10 people found this helpful
This product is the best thing I've done to fight my depression. One pill each morning works wonders all day long. After suffering for nearly fifteen years with depression, this affordable product has provided real results.
7.5
Psyche betterment achieved
10 people found this helpful
I used this when I was in a severe state of depression. It responded well for me, and my mental state improved. It's wise to read precautions and consult a doctor before using it. Thank you for asking.
10
Balanced my emotions
5 people found this helpful
This supplement enhances the nervous system's function and soothes it. Being an amino acid that generates serotonin, it promotes overall health, eliminating depression and fostering a calm, balanced state without antidepressants. I recommend it to everyone.
8
Reduced stress noted
This supplement helps to mitigate stress effects such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and aggression while promoting relaxation and improving mood as well as sleep quality.
9
Relieves depression
1 people found this helpful
This 5-HTP is a fantastic product. It helps me alleviate my depression and calm my mind. Compared to ordinary antidepressants, it has almost no side effects when taken with a meal. Additionally, it assists me in controlling my appetite. The great thing about Natrol's 5-HTP is that it is time-released.
9
Cured my depression
33 people found this helpful
This dietary supplement is miraculous! As someone who loves summer, I found that it helps me combat the depression that sets in during autumn and winter. I also recommend taking magnesium for added calmness and improved mood.
0
Increased depression
The packaging is appropriate, but unfortunately, it impacted me negatively. Although I wasn't diagnosed with depression, my symptoms increased significantly.
8
We explored the potential of FeO nanoparticles to improve serotonin synthesis in the brain, which is crucial for managing depression. These nanoparticles, enhanced with chitosan for better delivery, mimic the activity of the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase.
In our research, we observed that the FeO@CS treatment reinstated levels of serotonin and 5-hydroxytryptophan in a mouse model of depression. This led to significant improvements in behaviors typical of depressive conditions.
The innovative approach of using nanozymes to reactivate serotonin pathways shows promise in the quest for effective depression treatments.
In our research, we observed that the FeO@CS treatment reinstated levels of serotonin and 5-hydroxytryptophan in a mouse model of depression. This led to significant improvements in behaviors typical of depressive conditions.
The innovative approach of using nanozymes to reactivate serotonin pathways shows promise in the quest for effective depression treatments.
9
We explored the impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) as a treatment for depression through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.
Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.
Our analysis included 13 studies, revealing a depression remission rate of 65%. While this sounds promising, the research shows considerable variability in factors like treatment duration and types of depression tackled.
Additionally, the overall quality of the studies was weak, with many lacking proper control groups. To truly understand 5-HTP's effectiveness, more rigorous, placebo-controlled trials are essential.
7
We explored how 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) affects depression and apathy in individuals with Parkinson's disease. By conducting a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 25 participants, we compared the effects of 50 mg of 5-HTP to a placebo over four weeks.
Our findings suggest that 5-HTP may offer clinical benefits for alleviating depressive symptoms. However, larger and longer studies are necessary to confirm these promising results.
Our findings suggest that 5-HTP may offer clinical benefits for alleviating depressive symptoms. However, larger and longer studies are necessary to confirm these promising results.
8
We examined the effects of the probiotic strain WHH2078 on depression and anxiety in mice exposed to chronic stress. After five weeks of treatment, we found that WHH2078 significantly reduced signs of depression and anxiety, demonstrated through various behavioral tests.
The strain also boosted levels of important neurotransmitters related to mood, such as serotonin and its precursor, 5-HTP. By improving these levels and benefiting gut microbiome health, WHH2078 presents itself as a potential player in tackling depression linked to chronic stress.
The strain also boosted levels of important neurotransmitters related to mood, such as serotonin and its precursor, 5-HTP. By improving these levels and benefiting gut microbiome health, WHH2078 presents itself as a potential player in tackling depression linked to chronic stress.
9
We explored how whey protein isolate (WPI) affects depression-like symptoms in mice with breast tumors. Over 21 days, tumor-bearing mice received daily WPI doses, and the results were promising. While WPI did not change tumor size, it significantly reduced depression-like behavior.
Mice displayed increased movement in open spaces and improved responses in tests for anxiety and preference, indicating positive mental health effects. WPI also enhanced brain levels of essential neurotransmitters and positively shifted gut bacteria profiles. Overall, the study suggests that WPI might help alleviate cancer-related depression.
Mice displayed increased movement in open spaces and improved responses in tests for anxiety and preference, indicating positive mental health effects. WPI also enhanced brain levels of essential neurotransmitters and positively shifted gut bacteria profiles. Overall, the study suggests that WPI might help alleviate cancer-related depression.
References
- Fang X, Wu Y, Dai Y, Xiao H, Li S, et al. In Situ Recovery of Serotonin Synthesis by a Tryptophan Hydroxylase-Like Nanozyme for the Treatment of Depression. J Am Chem Soc. 2025;147:9111. doi:10.1021/jacs.4c10733
- Yu J, Zhang Y, Yao H, Zhang Z, Yang X, et al. ERβ activation improves nonylphenol-induced depression and neurotransmitter secretion disruption via the TPH2/5-HT pathway. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2024;280:116521. doi:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116521
- Xia S, Maitiniyazi G, Liu Y, Chen Y, Guo M, et al. Whey protein isolate attenuates depression-like behavior developed in a mouse model of breast tumor. Food Res Int. 2023;169:112849. doi:10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112849
- Duarte-Filho LAMS, Amariz IA, Nishimura RHV, Massaranduba ABR, Menezes PMN, et al. β-carboline-independent antidepressant-like effect of the standardized extract of the barks of (Willd) Poir. occurs via 5-HT receptors in mice. J Psychopharmacol. 2022;36:836. doi:10.1177/02698811221104050
- Gao K, Farzi A, Ke X, Yu Y, Chen C, et al. Oral administration of WHH2078 alleviates depressive and anxiety symptoms in mice with induced chronic stress. Food Funct. 2022;13:957. doi:10.1039/d1fo03723d
- Siopi E, Chevalier G, Katsimpardi L, Saha S, Bigot M, et al. Changes in Gut Microbiota by Chronic Stress Impair the Efficacy of Fluoxetine. Cell Rep. 2020;30:3682. doi:10.1016/j.celrep.2020.02.099
- Meloni M, Puligheddu M, Carta M, Cannas A, Figorilli M, et al. Efficacy and safety of 5-hydroxytryptophan on depression and apathy in Parkinson's disease: a preliminary finding. Eur J Neurol. 2020;27:779. doi:10.1111/ene.14179
- van der Burg KP, Cribb L, Firth J, Karmacoska D, Mischoulon D, et al. EPA and DHA as markers of nutraceutical treatment response in major depressive disorder. Eur J Nutr. 2020;59:2439. doi:10.1007/s00394-019-02090-6
- Javelle F, Lampit A, Bloch W, Häussermann P, Johnson SL, et al. Effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan on distinct types of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev. 2020;78:77. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuz039
- Tian P, Wang G, Zhao J, Zhang H, Chen W. Bifidobacterium with the role of 5-hydroxytryptophan synthesis regulation alleviates the symptom of depression and related microbiota dysbiosis. J Nutr Biochem. 2019;66:43. doi:10.1016/j.jnutbio.2019.01.007
- Song J, Xing G, Cao J, Teng L, Li C, et al. Investigation of the antidepressant effects of exopolysaccharides obtained from Marasmius androsaceus fermentation in a mouse model. Mol Med Rep. 2016;13:939. doi:10.3892/mmr.2015.4584
