Loading…
We use essential cookies (authentication, your saved goals/stack) by default. With your permission we'll also enable privacy-respecting analytics (Vercel Web Analytics, anonymous load-time metrics) and error-replay diagnostics (Sentry — DOM snapshots only when an error fires) so we can fix bugs faster. Learn more
Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
5-HTP and Reishi are closely matched across evidence, studies, and safety.
Verdict
Likely helps
6 of 7 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Mixed evidence
2 of 6 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (1)
Outcomes where both 5-HTP and Reishi have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
50-100mg for sleep; 150-300mg for mood
For sleep: 30-45 minutes before bed, For mood: 2-3 divided doses with meals
Capsules
1-3g dried mushroom or 500-1500mg extract
Evening (for sleep), With or without food
Dual-extract (water + alcohol) capsules or powder
2-4 weeks
1-2 weeks
2-4 weeks
First 1-2 weeks
4-8 weeks
2-4 weeks
4-8 weeks
Early pharmacological interventions for universal prevention of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2022) · Systematic review · n=2023
This review provides uncertain evidence only regarding the use of hydrocortisone, propranolol, dexamethasone, omega-3 fatty acids, gabapentin, paroxetine, PulmoCare formula, Oxepa formula, or 5-hydroxytryptophan as universal PTSD prevention strategies.
Combination pharmacotherapy for the treatment of fibromyalgia in adults
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2018) · Systematic review · n=1474
Two studies only reported any primary outcomes of interest (patient-reported pain relief of 30%, or 50%, or greater).
The Impact of 5-Hydroxytryptophan Supplementation on Cognitive Function and Mood in Singapore Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Nutrients (2025) · Rct · n=30
Results: A significant time effect was observed in the MoCA score, which was mainly explained by a significant increase in the 5-HTP group (week 0 vs. week 12: 26.6 ± 1.4 a.u. vs. 27.6 ± 1.4 a.u., p < 0.05).
Identifying immunostimulatory herbal supplements that may flare autoimmune skin diseases: a systematic scoping review
Lupus science & medicine (2025) · Systematic review · n=469
We identified 227 herbal supplements with immunostimulatory properties, of which 15 were most strongly supported by the evidence.
Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) an edible mushroom; a comprehensive and critical review of its nutritional, cosmeceutical, mycochemical, pharmacological, clinical, and toxicological properties
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2021) · Systematic review
In particular, quality clinical data are intensely needed to support pharmacological activities for human use.
Use of Ganoderma lucidum (Ganodermataceae, Basidiomycota) as Radioprotector
Nutrients (2020) · Meta analysis
From a total number of 1109 records identified, 15 full text articles were eligible, none of them were clinical trials.
Limited evidence from small RCTs (n=30, n=166). Effectiveness constrained by mixed study populations and preliminary findings. Higher doses associated with increased nausea risk.
Based on systematic reviews identifying immunostimulatory properties. Meta-analysis for cancer adjuvant therapy showed positive immune response (RR 1.50). Quality clinical data still needed. Effect varies significantly by extract type and standardization.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Both 5-HTP and Reishi are closely matched — the best choice depends on your specific health goals.
For support mood, 5-HTP has a higher relevance score (75 vs 50).
No known interactions between 5-HTP and Reishi have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.