1.What Is 5-HTP?

5-HTP is a chemical byproduct of the protein building block L-tryptophan. It is produced commercially from the seeds of an African plant known as Griffonia simplicifolia. 5-HTP isn’t present in any foods, which means it isn’t something we can simply just get from our diet.

It is possible to take 5-HTP supplements – this removes the need for our bodies to create it from tryptophan, which is believed to raise serotonin levels in the body. As a dietary supplement, it is used for a wide variety of medical and mental disorders.

2.How 5-HTP Works

5 HTP or 5-hydroxytryptophan is an intermediate metabolite used to produce serotonin. Serotonin is a very important substance which helps promote normal brain and nerve function. Serotonin is the main neurotransmitter that supports mood, sleep functions and appetite.

5-HTP works in the brain and central nervous system by increasing the production of the chemical serotonin. Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. 

Our bodies use 5-HTP to make the neurotransmitter, serotonin, which contributes towards mood and appetite regulation, as well as influencing gut function. 5-HTP is believed to be significantly more effective at serotonin conversion than L-tryptophan.

3.Benefits and Uses

Can promoting good sleep and alleviating insomnia

Can used to against depression. 

Can relieve anxiety

Can decrease your food intake by creating a feeling of fullness and increase the secretion of the hormone leptin to enhanced weight loss.

Can alleviate and reduce to improve the general quality of life of bipolar sufferers

5-HTP supplement has also been used for treating chronic headaches