The supplement 5-HTP naturally "increases" serotonin levels. 5-HTP also helps increase levels of endorphins and other neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) that are often found to be deficient in depressed individuals.
Clinical studies have shown that 5-HTP provided "significant improvements in depression, equivalent to or better than prescription antidepressants, and with fewer, much milder side-effects, if any."

In fact, a double-blind study was published in the journal "Psychopathology." Compared to a leading SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), 5-HTP "provided greater improvements...for anxiety, depression, insomnia and related physical symptoms." (Source: Herb Allure Resource Toolkit)

For more information, see "5-HTP Power" in the Herb Allure Resource Toolkit (HART), available in hardcover or on CD.