Yeah I also have read GABA won't cross the BBB so it won't raise GABA in the brain. However, most GABA receptors etc and other neurotransmitter and other receptors are located in the gut. It's hella important to have a good gut microbe going, too. GABA is absorbed in the gut and other areas of the body. Why You Shouldn't Take GABA Supplements. If you want to increase your GABA levels to combat anxiety taking GABA supplements is not a good way to do it; are the problem is the GABA molecule is too big to pass through a healthy blood-brain barrier so little if any of the GABA from supplements should reach your brain. GABA, or gamma aminobutyric acid, is often referred to in the literature as an amino acid which acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system. GABA blocks nerve impulses so Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is sold as over-the-counter supplement that reduces neuronal excitability. GABA is used by people in high-stress professions to reduce stress. Some people take 500 milligrams throughout the day to mellow out and be more social. There's some research indicating that GABA may increase levels of human growth Supplements that Increase GABA. Herbal supplements can help support the release of GABA where vitamin and mineral supplements can help correct deficiencies and imbalances that can lead to lower GABA production. Valerian root. Valerian is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. This sedative herb can increase the release The blood-brain barrier is a network of blood vessels and tissue that allows only some molecules to pass to and from the brain. GABA supplements have been marketed for many uses, among them to In closing, GABA and Gabapentin are two different things. Though they may have some similar effects (e.g. reducing excitability), and structurally they look alike, they both serve different purposes. Taking gabapentin does not increase GABA in the brain. Photo credit: sci-therapies. Article of interest: GABA Tea 4-Amino-3-Phenylbutric Acid is a GABA derivative that easily crosses the blood brain barrier and works to increase GABA levels. Gamma-Amino Butyric acid is sold as a supplement, but it has been shown to have minimal ability to cross the blood brain barrier unless used in combination with Nitric Oxide stimulators to help GABA cross blood brain xZoHmF.