@lolite - Great post. I should have remember that 5-HTP can reduce cortisol. So Tryptophan is the better alternative in that case. I also agree with everything else you stated, especially your opinion on the Cortisol.
I really do think that Cortef can be useful and in Paulette's case, it seems to be needed. Paulette, what is your major reason for lowering it? What does are you at?
The book 'The Safe Uses of Cortisol' by Dr. William Jefferies is ESSENTIAL. It truly is worth every penny.