5-HTP | Griffonia simplicifolia

Effects of 5-HTP

5-HTP is easily converted to serotonin in the body. 5-HTP works fast and is often very effective.

The amino acid L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is extracted from the seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia and is the direct precursor of serotonin and melatonin.

Serotonin supplement

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that contributes to a positive and balanced state of mind. Serotonin is not only formed in the brain from 5-HTP. In the digestive tract, enterochromaffin cells in the intestinal mucosa also produce serotonin.

Serotonin supplements don't exist. But fortunately, there is 5-HTP. Because this is the substance most easily converted into serotonin.

Melatonin

Melatonin, which is formed in the brain from serotonin, is a (neuro) hormone whose beneficial effects include sleep function.

5-HTP experiences

There has been more than 30 years of experience with 5-HTP supplementation. 5-HTP is very well absorbed, even when taken with meals, and passes the blood-brain barrier easily.

Upon absorption of 5-HTP from the gastrointestinal tract and passage of the blood-brain barrier, there is no competition with other amino acids. 5-HTP does not require a (shared) transport molecule like other amino acids including L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid and the precursor of 5-HTP.

Even better than L-Tryptophan

Another advantage over L-tryptophan is that 5-hydroxytryptophan does not first need to be converted by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase. A rate-limiting process in serotonin synthesis that is negatively affected by aging and deficiency of vitamin B6 and magnesium.

In addition, more than 95% of ingested L-tryptophan is used for the synthesis of protein, niacin (vitamin B3) and other molecules and does not benefit serotonin and melatonin production.

By using HPLC, the purity of the extract is guaranteed.

5-HTP side effects

5-HTP is not dangerous and normally has no side effects when used in low dosages.

Do not use 5-HTP in combination with antidepressants, medications for sleeping or serotonin-boosting medications.

If you are taking other medications, contact your physician first.

Updated information on 5-HTP

There is currently uncertainty about the legal status of 5-HTP supplements.

5-Hydroxytryptophan is the active substance extracted from seeds of the plant Griffonia simplicifolia. According to European legislation, both isolated 5-HTP, and extracts of Griffonia seeds with a high 5-HTP content are considered Novel Food and therefore should not (yet) be sold freely.

However, nowhere is it specified from what value the 5-HTP content is considered high. Our industry organization is trying to get more clarity on this. But up to this point, we therefore do not yet know which of our 5-HTP products will comply with European legislation.

Therefore there is a risk that several and possibly all 5-HTP products may at some point no longer be sold.

As soon as we have more information it will be posted on this page.

Last modified: June 2, 2022

People who buy 5-HTP also buy:

• L-Tryptophan
• Melatonin
• Magnesium
• Ashwagandha
• Saffron

Updated: December 24, 2023