Why Should I Take 5-HTP Supplements?

Every Detail You Need to Know about Griffonia Seed Extract

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is converted into serotonin in the human body. 5-HTP is often used for depression. 5-HTP is a chemical by-product of L-tryptophan, the protein building block. The 5-HTP powder is commercially produced from the seeds of an African plant called Griffonia simplicifolia. 5-HTP plays an important role in the brain and central nervous system by increasing the production of serotonin. Serotonin affects sleep, appetite, body temperature, sex, and pain. Since 5-HTP raises serotonin levels, it is used in situations where serotonin is believed to play a major role, including depression, anxiety, and many other conditions.

Why Should I Take 5-HTP Supplements?

In alternative medicine, Griffonia seed extract is claimed to help treat the following conditions: depression, anxiety, migraines, fibromyalgia, insomnia, hot flashes, weight loss, and more. So far, here are some studies on how 5-HTP supplements affect human life.

★ May Help Depression: Multiple small clinical trials found that 5-HTP is as effective as antidepressants. For instance, in a 6-week clinical trial, 63 people took either 5-HTP supplements (100 mg three times per day) or an antidepressant (50 mg three times per day). 5-HTP supplements were found to be as effective as antidepressants with fewer side effects. A study in 2017 found that the combination of creatine and 5-HTP was effective in enhancing the effects of SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) or SNRI (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) antidepressants in women who are experiencing treatment-resistant depression.

★ May Prevent Migraine: Some research suggests that 5-HTP supplements may prevent migraines and reduce the severity and frequency of migraines. In a study, 124 people received 5-HTP (600 mg per day) or the drug used to treat migraines. After 6 months, 5-HTP was found to be as effective as medication in reducing migraine severity and duration. Another study looked at 5-HTP or the drug used to prevent migraines for 4 months. Both treatments resulted in a significant reduction in migraine frequency.

★ May Improve Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a long-term disorder characterized by fatigue, widespread pain in ligaments, muscles, and tendons, and multiple tender points. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study looked at a 5-HTP supplement or placebo in 50 people with fibromyalgia. After four weeks, pain, stiffness, anxiety, fatigue, and sleep all improved. Side effects are mild and short-lived.

★ May Improve insomnia: Serotonin is converted to melatonin, a hormone required to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Since the 5-HTP supplement is believed to raise serotonin levels, it may elevate melatonin levels and help normalize sleep patterns.

How Much 5-HTP Supplement Should I Take?

5-HTP supplement comes from the seeds of an African shrub called Griffonia simplicifolia. The recommended dose of 5-HTP depends upon why you are taking it. Here are some getting-started guides:

Mood Improvement: 50-100 mg 3 times daily with meals. Use for at least 1 week to check beneficial effects.

Migraine: 100-200 mg 2-3 times daily with meals. Use for 2 to 3 weeks to see beneficial effects.

Fibromyalgia Symptom Relief: 100 mg 3-4 times daily with meals. Use for at least two weeks to see beneficial effects.

Sleep Aids: 100-300 mg 30-45 minutes before bedtime. Stack with GABA for increasing effectiveness.

Weight Management: 250-300 mg 30 minutes before meals.

For further information on our 5-HTP Powder and other products, please contact us at april@inhealthnature.com.