Compound Monograph
Serotonin
Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter central to mood, sleep and gut function, also present in some plants.
Sources · 6
Where Does It Come From?
Serotonin is a naturally occurring (and made in the body) monoamine (indoleamine) neurotransmitter, found in Stinging nettle, Velvet bean, Walnut and 3 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Principal source Stinging Nettle Urtica dioica Herb monograph → 
Source Black Walnut Juglans nigra Herb monograph → 
Source Chinese Skullcap Scutellaria baicalensis Herb monograph → 
Source Passionflower Passiflora incarnata Herb monograph → 
Source Plantain Plantago major Herb monograph → Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
Research & Evidence
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) is a monoamine neurotransmitter synthesized in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. It plays a wide-ranging role in mood, sleep, appetite, and gastrointestinal function; in fact, the large majority of the body’s serotonin is found in the gut. It is the endogenous ligand whose signaling many antidepressants and psychedelics indirectly modulate. Serotonin also occurs naturally in a number of plants, including stinging nettle and velvet bean, though dietary serotonin does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier.
Toxicity & Safety
Serotonin produced in the body is well tolerated, but excessive serotonergic activity from drugs can cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious condition. This is a concern with combinations of serotonergic medications rather than with serotonin from food.
