5-HTP Vs Kava Kava

If you struggle with depression or mood disorders, it may be tempting to seek naturally based alternatives to prescription medications. Both 5-HTP and kava kava, also known as kava, are over-the-counter dietary supplements purported to have beneficial effects on mood and well-being. However, neither supplement has been proved safe for long-term use, and neither should be given to children. Consult your doctor before starting any new supplementation regimen.

About 5-HTP

5-hydroxytryptophan, known as 5-HTP, is a compound made in your body as an intermediate stage in the process of converting tryptophan to serotonin. Tryptophan occurs naturally in a range of foods, including turkey, milk, pumpkin, collard greens, chicken, turnip, sunflower seeds and and potatoes. 5-HTP does not occur in foods, but can be purchased as a dietary supplement. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that increasing your dietary tryptophan is unlikely to have an effect on your 5-HTP levels.

About Kava

Kava is a type of pepper plant indigenous to several areas of the South Pacific and Polynesia. The root of the kava plant is used to make a muddy-colored traditional drink in Fiji, Samoa, Hawaii and other island nations. In the United States, a dried powder of the kava root is sold as a dietary supplement. Whether taken as a drink or a supplement, kava typically has sedative and mild anesthetic properties. In the United States, kava is marketed for its calming effects, and as a dietary supplement. As of 2011, it is unregulated.

Effects

The effects of 5-HTP come about through an increase of serotonin levels in your central nervous system. Although further research is necessary before conclusions can be drawn about 5-HTP's effectiveness, it is commonly used to suppress appetite, aid sleep and as an antidepressant. Anecdotal evidence indicates 5-HTP can be helpful for individuals suffering from anxiety, insomnia, fibromyalgia and other conditions. Kava acts to improve your mood, with relaxation and mild euphoria common after taking kava supplements or drink. The active ingredients in kava are known as kavalactones, which can reduce social anxiety and increase mental clarity.

Safety

Both kava and 5-HTP were available over-the-counter in 2011 in the United States. However, significant concerns have been raised about the safety of both supplements. In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration issued a consumer warning about the potential risk of liver damage following kava supplement consumption. In May 2011, the governmental online medical encyclopedia Medline Plus warned consumers against taking 5-HTP until its safety had been more thoroughly evaluated. Some cases of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome, EMS, have been associated with 5-HTP use. EMS is a medical condition that causes problems with the blood and muscles.