The human body manufactures 5-HTP from L-tryptophan, a natural amino acid found in many dietary proteins. Supplemental 5-HTP is naturally derived from the seeds of the Griffonia simplicifolia, a West African plant.

5-HTP supports the production of serotonin to help maintain healthy nerve and brain function. Serotonin is found in the brain and central nervous system, and supports balanced mood, behavior and sleep patterns.

Safe nutritional support for maintaining serotonin levels is available with 5-HTP. Serotonin is synthesized in a two-step process where L-tryptophan is converted to 5-HTP, which is then converted to serotonin. 5-HTP works by supporting healthy levels of serotonin in the brain. By enhancing the supply of serotonin, 5-HTP helps to nutritionally support healthy central nervous system function such as sleep, appetite and mood patterns.

Since the early 1970's Italian researcher Federigo Sicuteri, M.D., at the University of Florence has researched serotonin and the use of 5-HTP. In a double-blind study, 50 patients were divided into two groups. The group that received 5-HTP (100mg a day) showed significant improvements, while the placebo group experienced virtually no improvement. The improvements were felt within a short time period, and increased further after 30 days of use. In a second study by the same group of researchers, patients who took 100mg of 5-HTP three times daily reported positive results after 30 days and throughout the length of the 90 day trial.