Tetrahydropalmatine (THP) is an alkaloid compound primarily found in several species of the Corydalis genus, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its use for supporting the "GABA body system"—that is, modulating the GABAergic neurotransmitter system—has a scientific basis, although most of the data come from preclinical studies and limited human research.

Mechanistically, THP has been shown in animal and in vitro studies to interact with various neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and GABA. Notably, research indicates that THP acts as a modulator of GABA_A receptors, increasing GABAergic transmission, which can result in sedative, anxiolytic, and analgesic effects. Several rodent studies (e.g., J Ethnopharmacol. 2012;140(2):373-80) document THP’s ability to enhance GABA activity and reduce anxiety-like behaviors, supporting its potential benefits for calming the nervous system.

In human contexts, THP has a history of use for insomnia, pain relief, and anxiety in traditional medicine, and some small-scale clinical trials have investigated its effects on sleep and withdrawal symptoms. However, large, high-quality clinical trials specifically examining its direct impact on GABAergic function in humans are still lacking. Thus, while preclinical data support its GABAergic activity and related calming effects, direct clinical evidence remains moderate and warrants further research.