SAM-E, short for S-adenosyl-L-methionine, is a synthetic form of a chemical that the body naturally produces, rather than an herb, hormone, or vitamin. It is already in your body and can be found in your cells as it is produced in your liver and moves through your blood stream. You need both vitamin B12 and folic acid to synthesize SAM-e and if you are deficient in any of these areas you could have low concentrations of SAM-e in the central nervous system which can be detrimental to your health. It is involved in some of the biochemical processes in your body such as cell maintenance and some of your nerve function.

SAM-e is already given out by a lot of holistic practitioners in regards to a variety of conditions such as depression, fibromyalgia, liver disease, and osteoarthritis. It can be extremely effective as a pain reliever and as an antidepressant. Although it is not regulated by the FDA here, it is already been sold as a prescription in Europe for the treatment of these diseases as well as liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. While healthy people who have a great diet of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats don’t necessarily need to supplement with SAM-e, researchers think that many people may benefit from it.

People with Osteoarthritis have found that SAM-e helps to reduce the stiffness associated with the disease, as well as the pain and swelling. It can even improve overall joint health. In the case of cirrhosis of the liver, research does indicate that it can help immensely by preventing deaths in as much as 50% of the patients in the study. It does work better for people with less severe forms of liver cirrhosis but the results are extremely promising. For people with Fibromyalgia you can see a decrease in fatigue, stiffness, and pain as well, and it also works to improve your mood as well. Finally in depression it can promote a better mood and give you a general better emotional well-being.