Reply #16: it seems like just the thing for me

[suziedemocrat]

I've tried everything, Rhodiola Rosea, etc. Everything worked somewhat, (except Valerian, which made me depressed) but this has really made a huge difference for me. I used to be easily offended and easily upset by traffic, the jerk in front of me in line, etc. Now I barely notice these things. It has been amazing!

However, I think it's almost like finding a key that fits. Everyone's body is different, so who knows if it works this way for everyone? Still I found this: http://life.familyeducation.com/stress/mental-health/35983.html?page=4

Taurine: Calming Influence
Taurine is an amino acid that plays a major role in the brain as an "inhibitory" neurotransmitter. Similar in structure and function to GABA, taurine provides a similar antianxiety effect that helps to calm or stabilize an excited brain. Taurine has many other uses as well, including treating migraine, insomnia, agitation, restlessness, irritability, alcoholism, obsessions, depression, and even hypomania/mania – the "high" phase of bipolar disorder or manic depression. People have also reported getting a pleasant high from taking one or two capsules!

By inhibiting the release of adrenaline, taurine also protects us from anxiety and other adverse effects of stress. It even helps control high blood pressure. You may have noticed it as an ingredient in some of the energizing, high-caffeine soft drinks, to soften any overstimulation.

Vegetarians can be at risk for taurine deficiency since taurine is found in animal and fish protein, especially organ meats. A nonessential amino acid, taurine can be manufactured by the body in the liver and brain from the amino acids L-cysteine and L-methionine, plus the cofactor vitamin B6. When there are insufficiencies, though, you are best to supplement directly with taurine. The recommended dose is 100-500 mg twice daily, and higher as needed, between meals for best absorption.