5-HTP: Benefits, Uses & How It Works - A Comprehensive Guide

5-hydroxytryptophan, also known as 5-HTP, is a dietary supplement derived from seeds of the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia. People use 5-HTP as an alternative treatment for many psychological and physical disorders.

Development in the Body

• The body makes 5-hydroxytryptophan from the amino acid L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained from food because the body cannot create it.

Serotonin

• The brain converts 5-hydroxytryptophan to serotonin, a chemical important for regulating mood, behavior, appetite and sleep. Low serotonin levels can lead to impulsive or obsessive behavior, problems with concentration, depression and other difficulties.

Supplement Purpose

• People take 5-HTP supplements as an alternative treatment for anxiety, mild to moderate depression, binge eating, attention deficit disorder, chronic headaches, sleep disorders and fibromyalgia.

Considerations

• Dr. Ray Sahelian, a physician who writes about natural supplements, notes that 5-hydroxytryptophan supplements are not effective for everyone, possibly because some people's symptoms are not caused by serotonin deficiency.

Side Effects

• 5-hydroxytryptophan can increase sensitivity to the sun, so people taking it should use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Taking 5-hydroxytryptophan also may lower sex drive. Doses of 70 mg or higher can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.