Supplements and other Remedies 

SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine)

Classified as a prescription drug in Germany, Russia, Italy, and Spain, (but not in the UK or US), SAMe has been the subject of a number of studies, which have shown that SAMe influences brain chemicals by helping to convert the feel-good neurotransmitters norepinephrine into epinephrine, and serotonin into melatonin. It is also involved in the formation of myelin, the white sheath that surrounds nerve cells. It can improve brain-cell membrane fluidity.

Not a herb, or even a vitamin, SAMe is a substance produced in every living organism on the planet. In fact, our bodies produce about eight grams of SAMe per day. More than half of that amount is produced in the liver. For this reason it has been used effectively as a treatment for liver disease, especially alcohol-induced damage.

Available in Europe from Amazon Higher Nature TMG - Tri-Methyl Glycine - 90 x 500mg Vegicaps (the body converts this into SAMe), and in North America from HBC Protocols Inc.

5HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)

Extracted from Griffonia seeds, the amino acid 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a precursor to the brain chemical serotonin. Evidence suggests that low serotonin levels cause many people to tend to being overweight, crave sugar and carbohydrates, experience bouts of depression, insomnia, frequent headaches, and have vague muscle aches and pain. All of these maladies may be correctable by raising brain serotonin levels. 

We often seek to increase our serotonin levels through the intake of carbohydrates and addictive substances such as alcohol, tobacco, certain narcotics, and caffeine. Ironically these substances are ultimately central nervous system depressants. Moreover, as serotonin levels plummet, individuals attempting to kick these habits develop a chemical withdrawal syndrome.

In Europe, 5HTP is available in a combined St Johns Wort/5HTP formulation from Simply Supplements. In North America, it is available from HBC Protocols Inc (who have a lot of detailed scientific detail on their site).

L-Tryptophan

L-Tryptophan is an excellent way for the body to raise serotonin levels and can therefore be used in exactly the same fashion as 5htp. An amino acid, L-Tryptophan is essential for human nutrition, meaning the human body cannot produce it on its own, therefore it must be supplemented. In the SAD context, L-Tryptophan is used for anxiety and insomnia.

Other conditions for which it can be used include Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Teeth grinding (bruxism) and Tourette syndrome.

In Europe, it is available in an amino acid formulation from Simply Supplements. In North America, it is available from HBC Protocols Inc.