5-HTP 100mg – Natural Mood and Sleep Support from Griffonia Simplicifolia

This product contains 100mg of L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) per capsule, naturally derived from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds. 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid and direct precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation, sleep quality, and appetite control. By providing the building block for serotonin production, 5-HTP supports emotional well-being, healthy sleep patterns, and overall mental wellness. Health Canada approved (NPN 80040489). 60 vegan capsules. Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, egg-free, and corn-free. Take with food for optimal absorption.

Key Benefits

• Supports mood and emotional well-being
• Promotes healthy sleep patterns
• Helps support appetite control
• 100mg L-5-Hydroxytryptophan per capsule
• Natural serotonin precursor
• Derived from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds
• Health Canada approved (NPN 80040489)
• 100% vegan capsules
• Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free
• Egg-free and corn-free
• 60 veggie capsules
• Take with food

What Is 5-HTP?

5-HTP (L-5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a naturally occurring amino acid and chemical precursor to serotonin, one of the brain's most important neurotransmitters. 5-HTP is produced in the body from the amino acid L-tryptophan and is the immediate step before serotonin synthesis. Supplemental 5-HTP is extracted from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, an African plant that naturally contains high concentrations of this compound.

Key Facts About This 5-HTP

• Compound: L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
• Amount per capsule: 100mg
• Source: Griffonia simplicifolia seeds
• Function: Serotonin precursor
• Primary uses: Mood, sleep, appetite support
• Health Canada NPN: 80040489
• Format: Vegan capsules
• Capsules: 60
• Dietary: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free

Understanding Serotonin: The "Feel-Good" Neurotransmitter

Serotonin is one of the most important neurotransmitters in the human body:

What Is Serotonin? Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) is a neurotransmitter - a chemical messenger that transmits signals between nerve cells in the brain and throughout the body.

Serotonin's Multiple Roles: Serotonin regulates numerous physiological and psychological functions including mood, sleep, appetite, digestion, memory, and social behavior. It's often called the "feel-good" neurotransmitter because of its role in promoting positive mood and emotional well-being.

Where Serotonin Is Found: While serotonin is best known for its role in the brain, approximately 90% of the body's serotonin is actually found in the digestive system, where it helps regulate intestinal movements. The remaining 10% is produced in the brain and central nervous system.

Serotonin and Mental Health: Adequate serotonin levels are associated with feelings of well-being, happiness, and calm. Low serotonin levels have been linked to mood imbalances, sleep difficulties, and appetite changes.

The Serotonin Production Pathway: The body produces serotonin through a two-step process: L-tryptophan (from food) → 5-HTP → Serotonin. Supplementing with 5-HTP bypasses the first step, providing a more direct pathway to serotonin production.

How 5-HTP Works: The Serotonin Connection

5-HTP works by increasing serotonin production in the brain:

Serotonin Precursor: 5-HTP is the direct biochemical precursor to serotonin. Once absorbed, 5-HTP crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted into serotonin by the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase.

Why 5-HTP Instead of Serotonin: Serotonin itself cannot cross the blood-brain barrier when taken orally, but 5-HTP can. This makes 5-HTP an effective way to support serotonin levels in the brain.

Advantages Over L-Tryptophan: While L-tryptophan (found in food) can also be converted to serotonin, it must first be converted to 5-HTP. Supplementing with 5-HTP bypasses this step, providing a more direct pathway to serotonin production.

5-HTP and Sleep Support

5-HTP may support healthy sleep patterns through its role in serotonin and melatonin production:

Serotonin to Melatonin Conversion: Serotonin is the precursor to melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. By increasing serotonin levels, 5-HTP indirectly supports melatonin production, which may help promote healthy sleep patterns.

Sleep Quality: Adequate serotonin levels are associated with better sleep quality, including easier sleep onset, deeper sleep, and more restful sleep throughout the night.

Sleep-Wake Regulation: Serotonin plays a role in regulating circadian rhythms (the body's internal clock), helping maintain healthy sleep-wake cycles.

Natural Sleep Support: Unlike sleep medications that force sleep, 5-HTP works by supporting the body's natural sleep-regulating mechanisms through serotonin and melatonin pathways.

Timing Considerations: Some people find taking 5-HTP in the evening helpful for sleep support, while others prefer taking it throughout the day for mood support. Consult with a healthcare practitioner to determine the best timing for your individual needs.

Griffonia Simplicifolia: Natural Source of 5-HTP

Griffonia simplicifolia is a woody climbing shrub native to West and Central Africa:

Natural 5-HTP Source: The seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia are one of nature's richest sources of 5-HTP, containing up to 20% 5-HTP by weight.

Traditional Use: Griffonia simplicifolia has been used in traditional African medicine for various purposes.

Sustainable Extraction: 5-HTP is extracted from the seeds through a careful process that preserves the compound's natural structure and potency.

Who May Consider This Product

• Individuals seeking natural mood support
• Those wanting to support healthy sleep patterns
• People interested in appetite control support
• Individuals seeking serotonin support
• Those looking for natural sleep support
• People preferring plant-based supplements
• Individuals following vegan diets
• Those with gluten, dairy, or soy sensitivities

Important Usage Guidelines

Recommended Dose: Adults: 1 capsule 3 times per day. Take with food.

Gradual Introduction: To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, start dosing at 50-100mg, 2-3 times per day and slowly increase to effective dose over a 2-week period.

Duration: Use for a minimum of 2-3 weeks to see beneficial effects. Consult a healthcare practitioner for use beyond one year.

Take With Food: Taking 5-HTP with food helps optimize absorption and minimize potential digestive discomfort.

Quality & Purity

• Health Canada approved (NPN 80040489)
• 100mg L-5-Hydroxytryptophan per capsule
• Derived from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds
• 100% vegan capsules (hypromellose)
• Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free
• Egg-free and corn-free
• 60 veggie capsules
• Minimal excipients (microcrystalline cellulose)

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly sealed. Do not refrigerate.

Safety Information

Consult a healthcare practitioner before use if:
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You are taking carbidopa
• You are taking drugs/supplements with serotonergic activity (e.g., L-tryptophan, SAMe, St. John's wort, antidepressants, pain medications, migraine medications, or other mood-affecting medications)
• Symptoms persist or worsen

Do not use if: You have scleroderma.

Discontinue use and consult a healthcare practitioner if you experience:
• Signs of weakness
• Oral ulcers
• Abdominal pain accompanied by severe muscle pain
• Skin changes

Known adverse reactions: Some people may experience drowsiness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle, or involved in activities requiring mental alertness.

Keep out of reach of children.

This product is approved by Health Canada (NPN 80040489).