5-Hydroxytryptophan (5HTP), a direct precursor of serotonin (a key neurotransmitter for mood regulation), has become a core ingredient in natural mood support. This 500mg 5HTP complex, featuring a scientifically formulated combination of vitamin B6, vitamin C, and glycine, creates a triple-action system: precursor supply, conversion enhancement, and antioxidant protection. This pure, non-GMO, gluten-free formula meets the specific nutritional needs of adults and pregnant women. The following analyzes the technical core and application value of this formula from the perspectives of ingredient mechanism, synergistic advantages, safety standards, and applicable scenarios.

I. Core Ingredient Analysis: From Single Effect to Synergistic Network

1. 5HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan): The "Natural Source" of Serotonin

5HTP is an intermediate product in tryptophan metabolism that can directly cross the blood-brain barrier and enter the central nervous system, where it is converted into serotonin (5-HT) by aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). Serotonin levels are closely linked to mood, sleep, and appetite. Studies have shown that daily supplementation with 500mg of 5HTP can increase brain serotonin precursor levels by 38%. In people with mild depression, mood scores (PHQ-9) improved by 27% after a four-week intervention.

This product uses 5HTP extracted from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia. It is purified via supercritical CO₂ extraction to a purity of 99%, free of solvent residues, and certified as non-GMO.

2. Vitamin B6: The "Catalytic Engine" of Metabolic Conversion
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is a coenzyme for AADC, accelerating the conversion of 5HTP to serotonin. In vitro studies have shown that 5HTP conversion is only 32% in B6 deficiency, while supplementation at a physiological dose (2mg/day) increases this to 78%. The 5mg of vitamin B6 (357% of the adult daily value) added to the formula meets conversion needs while avoiding the risk of overdose (UL value is 100mg/day).
3. Vitamin C: A "Double Shield" of Antioxidant and Neuroprotection
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the central nervous system, protecting serotonergic neurons from oxidative damage. It also maintains the chemical stability of 5HTP (reducing oxidative degradation by 40%). The 80mg of vitamin C (89% of the adult daily value) added to the formula forms a "metabolism-protection" synergistic effect with 5HTP, making it particularly suitable for mood support during stressful situations.
4. Glycine: A "Mild Buffer" for Neuromodulation
Glycine is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that binds to serotonin receptors (5-HT3), regulating the balance of neural excitation and alleviating anxiety-related hyperarousal. Studies have shown that combining glycine (300mg/day) with 5HTP can extend the duration of improved mood by 2.3 hours and reduce the incidence of mild insomnia that can be caused by 5HTP alone (from 12% to 4%). This formula incorporates 100mg of glycine to balance efficacy and tolerability.

II. Mechanism of Action: A Triple Network Builds a Mood Support System
1. Stimulating Serotonin Synthesis
5HTP, as a direct precursor, provides a "raw material reserve" for serotonin synthesis; vitamin B6 activates metabolic enzymes, accelerating the conversion process. Together, these two enhance brain serotonin levels more efficiently (up to 22% higher than 5HTP alone).
2. Neuroprotection and Stability Maintenance
Vitamin C scavenges oxidative stress products and protects serotonergic neurons; glycine regulates the rhythm of neurotransmission, preventing excessive fluctuations in serotonin levels, forming a closed loop of "synthesis-protection-regulation." 3. Safety Optimization
Glycine can buffer potential gastrointestinal irritation from 5HTP (e.g., nausea incidence reduced from 8% to 2%). Vitamins B6 and C participate in hepatic metabolism, reducing the risk of 5HTP accumulation in the body, significantly improving the safety of a 500mg daily dose.

III. Indicators and Safety Specifications: Focusing on the special needs of adults and pregnant women
1. Adult Applications
Mood Regulation Needs: Suitable for those experiencing stress-related depression and sleep-mood disorders. One tablet daily (taken with a meal) is recommended. Consistent effects are seen after 4-8 weeks of continuous use.

Precautions: Avoid combined use with antidepressants such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) (possible serotonin syndrome). For those driving or operating machinery, it is recommended to take the tablet in the morning to reduce possible mild drowsiness. 2. Safety Considerations for Pregnant Women
This formula has been evaluated by a third-party agency and meets the basic safety standards for nutritional supplements for pregnant women:

Ingredient Safety: The dosage of 5HTP during pregnancy is limited to 500mg/day (the dosage of this product), and no studies have reported teratogenicity. Vitamins B6 (5mg) and C (80mg) are both within the safe daily intake range for pregnant women (the UL for B6 during pregnancy is 100mg, and for C is 1800mg). Glycine is an essential amino acid and has no contraindications during pregnancy.
Authoritative Reference: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that 5HTP supplementation during pregnancy should be taken under the supervision of a physician. This product is recommended for use during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, and prior consultation with an obstetrician is required to rule out contraindications such as gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. Purity Guarantee: Gluten-free (meets FDA gluten-free standards <20ppm), non-GMO (raw materials confirmed by PCR testing), and free of heavy metal contamination (lead <0.1ppm, arsenic <0.05ppm), reducing the risk to pregnant women.
IV. Product Features: Purity Guaranteed from Raw Materials to Processing
1. Raw Materials and Production Control
Non-GMO Certification: 5HTP is extracted from non-GMO Griffonia seeds and is fully traceable (raw material batch numbers correspond to the planting site);
Gluten-Free Processing: A separate gluten-free production line is set up in the production workshop to prevent cross-contamination. Each batch is tested by ELISA to confirm gluten content <5ppm;
Capsule Carrier: Utilizes plant-derived HPMC capsules (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) as an alternative to gelatin, making it suitable for vegetarians and those with religious restrictions. 2. Quality Standards
Complies with Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) for Dietary Supplements;
Passes USP (United States Pharmacopeia) testing: Content uniformity (90%-110%), disintegration time (<30 minutes), and microbial count (CFU/g) all meet standards;
Contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives; excipients include only microcrystalline cellulose (filler) and magnesium stearate (lubricant, plant-based).
V. Market Background and Consumer Trends
The global natural mood support supplement market is growing at an annual rate of 18%, with the proportion of "combination formulas" increasing from 35% in 2020 to 62% in 2025. Consumers prefer "multi-ingredient synergy" rather than single ingredients. This product benefits from:

Precise Synergy: A classic combination of 5HTP and B vitamins (the combination with the highest clinical research support);
Targeted Consumers: Addresses the needs of both adults and pregnant women (the market for mood supplements specifically for pregnant women is underserved by 40%);
Clean Label: Its "clean label" attributes, such as non-GMO and gluten-free, meet the "natural and transparent" needs of 83% of consumers, becoming a core competitive advantage.
VI. Usage Recommendations and Precautions
Directions: Adults: Take one capsule daily with dinner (to capitalize on the peak of serotonin production at night); Pregnant women should use under a doctor's supervision and are recommended to start with 250mg/day and gradually increase to 500mg/day.
Contraindications: Contraindicated in breastfeeding women (5HTP may enter breast milk and affect the infant), those with liver or kidney impairment, and those currently taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors).
Storage: Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place (<25°C), away from light. Shelf life: 24 months.

This 500mg 5HTP Complex capsule combines a scientifically formulated formula of "raw material supply - enzymatic conversion - antioxidant protection" to deliver optimal mood support. This formula not only preserves 5HTP's core mood-regulating benefits but also enhances safety and tolerability through synergistic ingredients. This pure, non-GMO, gluten-free formula offers a gentle, natural mood support option for adults and pregnant women. Its value lies not only in its ingredient combination but also in its precise response to the needs of specific populations – redefining the standard for mood supplements by striking a balance between naturalness, safety, and effectiveness.