Tryptophan is essential for the production of the body’s proteins, enzymes, and muscle tissue. It is also essential for the production of niacin, the synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin and melatonin. The supplements can be used as natural relaxants to help relieve insomnia. It can also reduce anxiety and depression, and has been shown to reduce the intensity of migraines. Other promising indications include the relief of chronic pain, reduction of impulsivity or mania, and the treatment of obsessive or compulsive disorders. It also appears to help the immune system and can reduce the risk of cardiac spasms. Tryptophan deficiencies may lead to coronary artery spasms. It is used as an essential nutrient in infant formulas and intravenous feeding. Tryptophan serves as the precursor for the synthesis of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine).[2]
The common health benefits of Tryptophan include:

1. Improves sleep quality [3]
2. Reduces anxiety and depression [4]
3. Improves mood [5]
4. Reduces headache and migraine [6]
5. Helps improve physical performance [7]
6. Fights fatigue [8]
7. Helps manage pain tolerance [9]
8. Reduces appetite [10]
9. Helps people who have Alzheimer’s disease and dementia symptoms [11]
10. May protect eye health [12]
11. Improves athletic performance [13]
12. Improves cognition [14]

People report that Tryptophan can help children grow, help to breastfeed, and improves PMS

Tryptophan has many functions, but its impact on the brain is predominantly noteworthy. Another notable key benefit of this supplement is that it may help to decrease appetite and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. This supplement may also encourage healthy sleep patterns. These benefits appear to be directly associated with the release and synthesis of Serotonin and Melatonin.

Tryptophan is considered to be a precursor to several different hormones, neurotransmitters, and other substances all over the body. While supplementing with Tryptophan, it moves through the bloodstream and helps in the production or synthesis of various proteins. It is also essential for the production of niacin, the synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin and melatonin.
Tryptophan can work in the brain in different ways. It is broken down in the liver into the component of 5-HTP and other metabolites which travel through the bloodstream to the brain, crosse the blood-brain barrier, and enter the brain. When in the brain, the 5-HTP is converted into Serotonin. Serotonin, also known as the “happiness neurotransmitter,” works by transmitting signals between nerve cells and altering brain functions that can affect mood states and sleep. Serotonin is believed to help regulate things like appetite and mood. Again, supplementing with 5HTP which is made from tryptophan is demonstrated to lower depression symptoms.