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Dear KittyStar,  Dr. Allan Blaivas discusses L-trypypophan on a MySleepCentral.com SharePost entitled, OTC Insomnia Medications.   Here is an exact quote from him:   ".....Finally, L-tryptophan (LT) is one of eight essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. LT was coming into widespread use in the 1980's when it was linked to a rare, debilitating, and often deadly disease called eosinophilia myalgia syndrome. This epidemic was believed to be caused by impurities in LT batches that were produced in Japan. Due to these safety concerns and a lack of strong evidence showing its usefulness in insomnia, it is difficult to recommend as a treatment option (also it is not widely available in the USA). A similar, but equally questionable alternative to LT which is available in the US is called 5-hydroxy-tryptophan or 5-HTP."   I'd highly encourage you to talk with your Physician before taking L-trypyophan or any herbal remedy that is not regulated by the FDA.     Regards, Dr. Jennifer Fee www.drjenniferfee.com www.thestressmasters.com      Dr. Fee is a Psychologist and does not prescribe medication. The comments in this post are not meant to diagnose or treat any mental/medical disorder. They are merely to give you more information so that you can have an informed conversation with your physician.