5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a compound produced in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. It is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin and the hormone melatonin.
5-HTP is manufactured from the seeds of an African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia. The supplements have become popular because it is thought that providing the body with 5-HTP in pill form can boost the body’s serotonin levels, similar to the antidepressants that are thought to increase the amount of serotonin available to the brain.
Health Benefits
In alternative medicine, 5-HTP supplements are purported to help in the treatment of conditions including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraine
- Hot flashes
- Weight Loss
