Latin Name Griffonia simplicifolia Country of Origin Africa Part of the Plant Used Seed (Dried, 100% Natural)
Product Introduction 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a chemical that the body makes from tryptophan (an essential amino acid, which has to be obtained through food). After tryptophan is converted into 5-HTP, the chemical is then converted into another chemical called serotonin (a neurotransmitter, which relays signals between brain cells). 5-HTP dietary supplements help raise serotonin levels in the brain. Since serotonin helps regulate mood and behavior, 5-HTP may have a positive effect on sleep, mood, anxiety, appetite, and pain sensation.
Active Ingredients 5-HTP
Product Specification 95% ,99% 5-HTP (HPLC-UV)
Physiological Functions Depression Some small studies indicate that 5-HTP may be as effective as certain antidepressant drugs in treating individuals with mild-to-moderate depression. Like the class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which includes fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), 5-HTP increases the levels of serotonin in the brain. One study compared the effects of 5-HTP to fluvoxamine (Luvox) in 63 people and found that those who were given 5-HTP did just as well as those who received the SSRI. In addition, those who took 5-HTP had fewer side effects than those who took Luvox. However, these studies were too small to say for sure if 5-HTP works. More and larger studies are needed.
Fibromyalgia Three studies have suggested that 5-HTP can improve symptoms of fibromyalgia, including pain, anxiety, morning stiffness, and fatigue. Many people with fibromyalgia have low levels of serotonin, and antidepressants are commonly prescribed. Since 5-HTP, like antidepressants, raises levels of serotonin in the brain, it may be effective as well. However, it does not work for all people with fibromyalgia, and more studies are needed to understand its effect.
Insomnia In one study, people who took 5-HTP went to sleep quicker and experienced a deeper sleep than those who took placebo. Researchers recommend 200 - 400 mg at night to stimulate serotonin, but it may take 6 - 12 weeks to be fully effective. Migraines and Headaches Some studies suggest that high doses of 5-HTP may be effective in children and adults with various types of headaches, including migraines. However, the evidence is mixed, with other studies showing no effect.
Obesity A few small studies have examined whether 5-HTP can help people lose weight, with encouraging results. In one study, those who took 5-HTP ate fewer calories, although they were not trying to diet, compared to those who took placebo. Researchers believe 5-HTP led people to feel more full (satiety) after eating, so they ate less. A follow-up study, which compared 5-HTP to placebo during a diet and non-diet period found that those who took 5-HTP lost about 2% of body weight during the non-diet period and another 3% when they dieted. Those taking placebo did not lose any weight. However, doses used in these studies were high, and many participants experienced side effects (nausea). If you are seriously overweight, see your doctor before taking any weight-loss aid, and remember that you will need to change your eating and exercise habits to lose more than a few pounds.
Hot Flashes In small studies 5-HTP increases serotonin levels, reducing depressive symptoms and decreasing hot flashes in a manner similar to SSRIs, but without the risk of breast cell stimulation.
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