5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) or St. John's wort

Just read that you can raise the levels of the serotonin in the body by using either the St. John's wort herb or the chemical compound known as 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), which is a form of the essential amino acid tryptophan.

Has anyone tried either of these?

I have tried both (what haven't I tried?!) Years ago I found St John's Wort to be helpful, but it seemed to stop working. I was taking loads of painkillers at the time though. In recent times I haven't tried it again, as you really can't take St John's Wort with any prescription medications, which makes it quite limiting.

5-HTP I felt actually made my migraines slightly worse.

That's interesting thanks - I have heard about the no no of using St Johns Wort and some OTC meds - but do you know if there is any problems of using it with other supplements?

I don't know of any problems with other supplements, but the list of OTC and prescription meds that are contraindicated with it is so huge that I suspect it's a risk taking it with any.

I have just started seeing a clinical psychologist for pain management and he has recommended I start taking 120 mg of 5-HTP daily. He said it should show some results by the time I see him again in 2 weeks.

Best of luck. I'll be interested to hear how you get on.