5 HTP (5 Hydroxy Tryptophan from Griffonia)

5-Hydroxytryptophan is extracted from the seeds of the African plant, Griffonia simplicifolia. 5 HTP is a precursor to the “feel good” neurotransmitter and enhances serotonin and melatonin production, increasing levels for sleep enhancement, decreased sugar cravings, and better stress management. Thorne research prepared this product without fillers and flowing agents that can interfere with absorption. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is the intermediate metabolite produced when the body converts the essential amino acid L-tryptophan to serotonin.

Serotonin levels in the body are associated with the regulation of sleep, mood, seasonal depression, aggression, appetite regulation, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. it has also been helpful for symptoms of fibromyalgia and the severity and duration of migraine headaches.
Supplementing with 5-HTP to facilitate serotonin production is preferable to supplementing with L-tryptophan because, unlike L-tryptophan, 5-HTP cannot be shunted into niacin or protein production. Supplementation with 5-HTP bypasses the conversion of L-tryptophan into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase, the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of serotonin (and a step that can be inhibited by a number of factors, including stress, insulin resistance, increasing age, and deficiencies of vitamin C, folate, and iron).

5-HTP has been shown to have a beneficial impact on mood, discomfort associated with fatigue, sleep, and carbohydrate craving. Numerous studies of individuals with negative mood status have shown significant positive response with 50-300 mg of 5-HTP daily.

To further facilitate serotonin production, Thorne Research’s 5-HTP formula contains pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, the active form of vitamin B6 -a necessary cofactor in the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use for any individual currently being treated with an SSRI, MAO inhibitor, or other antidepressant medication.