Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 11 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 29 Reviews
7.4
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) (from Griffonia simplicifolia Extract) (seed)
50 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
9
Effective for depression
106 people found this helpful
It helps a lot with depression. I drink at night.
Read More
9
Hope for well-being
5 people found this helpful
I heard a lot about this product but only bought it for the first time recently. I’m very pleased—it helps overcome depression and enhances both mood and well-being. I feel a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to engage in life again.
Read More
10
Positive change
2 people found this helpful
I had never dealt with long-term depression until several life-changing events left me feeling unmotivated for weeks, turning into months. I avoided prescription medicine due to potential side effects, but my therapist recommended this product. It worked immediately and continues to work. I only take 50 mg daily at bedtime and feel like my former positive self again. Thank you for such a fantastic product with no side effects for me.
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
Moderately Good
Based on 29 Reviews
7.4
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Effective for depression
106 people found this helpful
It helps a lot with depression. I drink at night.
Read More
9
Hope for well-being
5 people found this helpful
I heard a lot about this product but only bought it for the first time recently. I’m very pleased—it helps overcome depression and enhances both mood and well-being. I feel a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to engage in life again.
Read More
10
Positive change
2 people found this helpful
I had never dealt with long-term depression until several life-changing events left me feeling unmotivated for weeks, turning into months. I avoided prescription medicine due to potential side effects, but my therapist recommended this product. It worked immediately and continues to work. I only take 50 mg daily at bedtime and feel like my former positive self again. Thank you for such a fantastic product with no side effects for me.
Read More
10
Depression resolved
1 people found this helpful
I recommend! I bought GABA, magnesium, and 5-HTP for my father, who suffered from prolonged depression and became very anxious. After a couple of months, he felt much better and the depression vanished. I didn't expect such results, but now he is cheerful and calm. Last year, he relied on sleeping pills, but now he sleeps soundly and wakes up cheerful. He takes all three tablets in the morning and evening (GABA + 5HTP + magnesium). Thanks, Ayherb!
Read More
9
Mental health improved
1 people found this helpful
Old reliable! I take this for depression, and it really helps. When I don't take it, I notice a significant difference in my mental and emotional health. This, combined with St. John's Wort, has enabled me to manage living with depression to the extent that I don’t need any other medications for a satisfying life.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Improved mood significantly
103 people found this helpful
I started taking this vitamin three weeks ago. I immediately saw a huge difference in my energy levels and could do more tasks. My mood is now much better, and I've noticed fewer symptoms of depression. My quality of life has genuinely improved!
10
Positive change
2 people found this helpful
I had never dealt with long-term depression until several life-changing events left me feeling unmotivated for weeks, turning into months. I avoided prescription medicine due to potential side effects, but my therapist recommended this product. It worked immediately and continues to work. I only take 50 mg daily at bedtime and feel like my former positive self again. Thank you for such a fantastic product with no side effects for me.
0
Avoid side effects
43 people found this helpful
I had the reverse effect; I initially sought relief from autumn melancholy, but within a week of using these pills, I descended into severe depression, experiencing hysterics and tears. Stopping the medication reversed these issues. I started with the minimum dosage of 50 mg, yet the results were contrary to my expectations.
9
Hope for well-being
5 people found this helpful
I heard a lot about this product but only bought it for the first time recently. I’m very pleased—it helps overcome depression and enhances both mood and well-being. I feel a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to engage in life again.
0
Deteriorated condition
6 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, instead of improving my mood, this product led me into depression. I ceased taking it and everything returned to normal. I cannot recommend it.
10
Depression resolved
1 people found this helpful
I recommend! I bought GABA, magnesium, and 5-HTP for my father, who suffered from prolonged depression and became very anxious. After a couple of months, he felt much better and the depression vanished. I didn't expect such results, but now he is cheerful and calm. Last year, he relied on sleeping pills, but now he sleeps soundly and wakes up cheerful. He takes all three tablets in the morning and evening (GABA + 5HTP + magnesium). Thanks, Ayherb!
9
Significant relief
3 people found this helpful
It truly helps with my depression alongside DMAE and St. John's Wort! It’s especially great since I cannot take SAMe, melatonin, or other options.
0
Worsened mood conditions
Before purchasing 5-HTP, I investigated its contraindications and avoided mixing it with similar supplements. Initially, I took 50 mg at night and soon suffered nightmares. When I tried the same dosage in the morning to uplift my mood, my condition actually worsened, intensifying my low mood and depression.
9
Mood stabilised
1 people found this helpful
My lifesaver during depressive periods! With my night shifts, melatonin production is poor, and sometimes my mood plummets. I start a course of 5-HTP at 200 mg, having begun with 50 mg and gradually increased it. Now, I start right away with 200 mg. It works brilliantly as a natural antidepressant without side effects. I'm not bothered by vivid dreams as some experience with melatonin; I sleep peacefully. I also take magnesium and glycine in my diet when faced with depression. My mood is now stable, even during PMS, which used to bring depressive episodes.
8
Less depression felt
1 people found this helpful
Effective supplement for mood support. In my experience, this 5-HTP supplement is effective at alleviating mild depression. I just take one capsule a day and definitely notice I feel less depressed! Make sure to consult your doctor before taking this in case of interactions with other medications. Overall, I'm pleased with this product; it appears to be of good quality and effectively works!
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.
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.
8
We investigated the impact of two specific strains of Bifidobacterium on depression in lab mice under chronic stress. The results showed that these strains increased 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) production, leading to significant reductions in depressive behaviors across multiple tests.
Additionally, we observed improvements in brain signaling and a healthier gut microbiome. These findings suggest that supporting gut health with Bifidobacterium strains may provide a promising new approach for managing depression and improving mental well-being.
Additionally, we observed improvements in brain signaling and a healthier gut microbiome. These findings suggest that supporting gut health with Bifidobacterium strains may provide a promising new approach for managing depression and improving mental well-being.
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.
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.
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 10.3892/mmr.2015.4584
