Tryptophan, an amino acid, is commonly regarded as an alternative treatment for depression. Being natural does not necessarily mean a supplement is safe, though. You should not use supplements to replace traditional medical care. If you choose to use tryptophan, do so only under your doctor's supervision.
Function
Amino acids are building blocks of protein. Your body uses 22 primary amino acids for various functions. Amino acids work separately and together to promote health. Tryptophan helps your metabolism and brain function properly. Your body manufactures some amino acids on its own, usually from other nutrients. However, your body cannot produce tryptophan and must receive it from your diet. Eating tryptophan-rich foods can help fulfill your dietary requirement. These foods include cheese, chicken, eggs, milk, nuts, turkey and peanut butter.
Uses
Your body uses tryptophan to make serotonin. Serotonin is a brain chemical known as a neurotransmitter. It plays an important role in your mental health. Tryptophan has been used in alternative medicine for anxiety, insomnia and depression. However, the U.S Food and Drug Administration has not approved all tryptophan uses. It is important to consult your doctor before you take tryptophan.
Manufacturing Safety
Tryptophan is available as a solitary supplement and is commonly added to herbal supplements. Herbal manufacturing standards are unregulated. Some herbal supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals. You increase contamination risk when you take herbal supplements because herbal manufacturing standards are unregulated. You minimize your contamination risk when you purchase supplements from a trusted source.
International Vendor Risk
Purchasing tryptophan from non-U.S sources increases your risk of adverse health effects. Non-U.S tryptophan sale and distribution does not have to comply with FDA tryptophan safety regulations. In 1989, contaminated tryptophan from a Japanese manufacturer caused some individuals to develop a life-threatening condition called eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome -- an incurable neurological condition. Some individuals died from the condition.
Safe Use
Tryptophan may be safe. If you are healthy, purchase tryptophan from a reputable source and take it only as directed by your doctor. According to a review of 108 trials published in the 2002 online database "Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews," tryptophan alleviated depressive symptoms better than the placebo. However, the review adds that further studies evaluating the safety and efficacy are needed.
Precautions
When taken as directed by your doctor, tryptophan side effects are generally mild and include dry mouth, nausea, appetite loss, drowsiness and headache. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as swelling, abnormal heartbeat, breathing difficulty, tremors or tingling. Tryptophan may interact with your medications, including anti-depressant medications. Consult your doctor and use caution if you are currently prescribed medication.
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