Tyrosine

Tyrosine is a polar amino acid and its molecule is chiral. In humans it is not essential because the human body is able to synthesize it; however, it is biologically important because it is a precursor of various hormones, such as thyroxine, catecholamines (dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline) and melanin. Tyrosine owes its name to the Greek word "tyros”, which means cheese, because the German chemist von Liebig discovered it in casein. It’s one of 20 ordinary amino acids that make up proteins in our body. In herbal medicine it is used as a remedy for anxiety and depression.