I haven't been on this forum in a VERY long time. But, I received a Merry Christmas letter and came to see what's new. Anyway, I thought I would mention something I discovered while away. Forgive me if this has already been discussed, I didn't take the time to look through all the posts.

A few months back, when I was dealing with some depression issues, I thought I would try some over the counter, natural suppliments to help my mood. 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) has been used to remedy many different conditions. From PMS, to Insomnia, to Depression, and even Parkisons disease.

Yes, Tryptophan is what is found in VERY small traces in turkey, and is believed to make you tired. While it is true that Tryptophan can be linked to this effect, it is not present in turkey enough to be noticed. In fact, there is as much or more tryptophan in other meats like beef.

But, back to the topic at hand. 5-HTP as a treament is based on its effect on Serotonin systhesis. Quoted from Wikipedia;

5-Hydroxytryptophan is decarboxylated to serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) by the enzyme aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase.

The psychoactive action of 5-HTP is thought to derive from its effect on serotonin synthesis. It is believed that an artificially high supply of 5-HTP causes the brain's serotonin-producing neurons to increase production. Increased serotonin production then leads to increased serotonin release.

Some doctors suggest that 5-HTP be administered with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor such as carbidopa in order to prevent elevated levels of serotonin in the bloodstream (and their side effects, which include emesis and potentially fibrosis of the heart).[1] Research shows that co-administration with carbidopa greatly increases plasma 5-HTP levels.[2][/b]
While 5-HTP was never a great remedy as an anti-depresant for me personaly, it had another side-effect. When taken a half-hour before sleep, as suggested, I would have very vivid dreams.

The dreams were much longer (sometimes all night) and more colorful than normal and subject matter was entirely different than my usual dreams. I could not exhibit as much control as I have in the past, but the dreams themselves were entertaining enough by themselves.

I would love to hear some accounts of your experience with 5-HTP and perhaps from those who have had trouble with lucid dreaming. By the way, 5-HTP can be found at any drug-store over the counter, or at places like K-Mart, Target, and Wall-Mart in the vitamin/suppliment isle.