5-HTP

An intermediate metabolite between L-Tryptophan and serotonin, offering a more direct pathway to serotonin production
Amino Acids Essential Amino Acids Research: Extensive

Scientific Name

5-Hydroxytryptophan

Classifications

Absorption: superior_to_tryptophan
Source: griffonia_seed_extract
Type: metabolite

Benefits

  • Supports healthy mood and emotional wellbeing
  • Promotes healthy sleep patterns
  • Serves as a precursor to serotonin and melatonin
  • May help manage occasional stress
  • Supports cognitive function

Specific Properties

  • Bypasses the rate-limiting step in serotonin synthesis
  • More efficiently crosses the blood-brain barrier
  • Extracted primarily from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds
  • Does not require vitamin B6 for conversion to serotonin

Safety Notes

Generally recognized as safe when used as directed. Should not be combined with certain antidepressants, particularly SSRIs or MAOIs, due to risk of serotonin syndrome. The FDA temporarily banned tryptophan supplements in 1989 due to a contamination issue with one manufacturer, but properly manufactured tryptophan supplements are now considered safe.

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About Tryptophan

An essential amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin, melatonin, and niacin, playing important roles in mood regulation, sleep, and overall mental wellbeing

Back to Tryptophan

Forms of 5-HTP

Standard 5-HTP

Basic 5-HTP supplement extracted from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds

Amino acids Essential amino acids Research: Extensive

Enteric-Coated 5-HTP

5-HTP with special coating to prevent breakdown in the stomach

Amino acids Essential amino acids Research: Moderate

5-HTP Complex

5-HTP combined with supportive nutrients for enhanced effects

Amino acids Essential amino acids Research: Moderate