Experts believe that 5-HTP is used to make serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain that can affect sleep quality. Essentially, it helps to separate mind from body, thus making it easier for your legs to lie still through the night. Some people with restless legs who try 5-HTP notice a change for the better right away, but you might have to take the supplements for two weeks to a month before you ll know whether it will work for you, according to Dr. Lombard. Start by taking 100 milligrams about 20 minutes before you go to bed, he suggests. You can increase the dose to 200 milligrams if you don t see results after the first few weeks, but don t take any more than that, he advises.
Larger doses can cause disturbing dreams and nightmares.
You shouldn t take 5-HTP for longer than three months without consulting a doctor. You should also avoid it if you are currently taking antidepressants or have taken them recently. The combined effects could cause a possibly fatal condition called serotonin syndrome. Do not take supplements of 5-HTP if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. Stabilize Membranes with Horse Chestnut Preparations of horse chestnut leaves, bark, and seeds are used in Europe for their good effect on vein health.