5 htp...or something

what is this 5 htp (almost certainly not correct) that I have heard about through these threads?

More importantly, does it work?

Also, does anyone have a lightbox at work? would it be suitable in a customer facing environment?

Cheers guys

my email is rozzajam@hotail.com if that's easier for any feedback :D

Just to add my bit here. When I was in the phase where I was trying every possible treatment to alleviate my symptoms, I also tried 5-HTP. It really weirded me out, made me very tired, and gave me no benefit whatsoever. It was quite an expensive mistake. You are of course welcome to try it, but there's no guarantee it will help you.

Linda.

5-HTP has been the major part of my self-medicating routine now for the past five months (along with St Johns Wort, Omega 3, Starflower Oil and Gingko, and of course my trusty lightbox!). Although my dreams are even more graphic than my usual Technicolour epics, it is a small price to pay for feeling so much better.

This concoction works for me, where prescription meds have largely failed with me in my bipolar+SAD fix. Though in fairness, and to keep a complete balance, I was literally saved by an MAOI antidepressant some 23 years ago.

I do have moments when I get a glimpse of the 'black dog', and there are times when I feel I am wading through the treacle of winter weariness, but largely, mmm, well, much better :)

Hey

Going slightly off-topic here, but anyone who is in their child bearing years wants to be careful with St John's Wort because it can affect the contraceptive pill and the contraceptive implant. I'm not sure how well known that is, but just a reminder.

I have tried 5-HTP and didn't find it helpful at all. I have however, found omega 3 to work wonders. I just feel a lot more alert when I take it.