In the body, (5-hydroxytryptophan), is synthesized from tryptophan and is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is found in the brain, blood platelets, and cells of the gastrointestinal tract. Since serotonin is found in the brain and central nervous system it has many implications in cognition, mental health and sleep patterns*. Supplementation of 5-HTP has shown a distinct ability to increase serotonin levels*. Since the FDA restricts the availability of tryptophan, many research scientists have discovered that 5-HTP compares favorably in modulating serotonin levels. This product is an extract from a natural plant seed and not from fermented tryptophan.