Brief Introduction
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan, DL-5-Hydroxytryptophan)
Molecular Formula: C11H12N2O3
Mol. Wt.: 220.22
Molecular Structure::
 
5-HTP (L-5-Hydroxytryptophan) is a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan. In the human body, tryptophan is converted into 5-HTP, which then can be transformed into serotonin (a potent neurotransmitter in the brain). Although 5-HTP is not found at any significant level in a normal diet, tryptophan is found in a wide variety of protein foods. The 5-HTP used in dietary supplements is derived from the seeds of an African plant (Griffonia simplicifolia).

Benefits

•  Relieves mild to moderate depression
•  Relieves insomnia and promotes sleep
•  Promotes weight loss by suppressing appetite
•  Reduces overall sensation of pain (migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, general muscle pain)

Mechanism

5-HTP is typically used to treat mild depression based on the theory that as a precursor to serotonin, supplements of 5-HTP can increase serotonin levels and influence mood, sleep patterns and pain control. The amino acid, tryptophan, can also be broken down in the body to yield ribose and/or NAD – both of which have been associated with increased energy levels. While these are certainly logical theories, the scientific evidence supporting them remains from mild to moderate as well.

Safety

5-HTP is safe. The safety concern related to 5-HTP supplements is the remote possibility for contamination with a compound linked to a disorder known as eosinophilic myalgia syndrome (EMS). In 1989, an outbreak of EMS (which results in muscle pain and weakness, vomiting, headache and in rare cases, death) was linked to contaminated tryptophan supplements (not to the tryptophan per se, but to a contaminant in the tryptophan supplements). As a result, the FDA banned the sale of all tryptophan supplements (a move that has been widely criticized by people on both sides of the supplement debate). In some rare cases, 5-HTP supplements have been linked (anecdotally) to gastrointestinal distress, muscle pain, lethargy and headaches.
    In addition, 5-HTP supplements are not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or lactating. Those individuals currently taking prescription antidepressants, weight control medications or herbal remedies for depression (such as St. John’s Wort) should not combine these treatments with 5-HTP supplements.

Dosage

•  The typical dose is 300-900mg per day (usually in 2-3 doses throughout the day).
•  Consult physicians for different condition specifics.

GNI’s 5-HTP Features and Benefits:
 
5-HTP is one of GNI's most competitive products, with many advantages as list in the following, produced as our patent-pending process and know-how technology from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds.
•  Produced with pure water only
•  High purity: over 99%
•  NO solvent - residual free
•  Pesticide-free
•  Peak-X Free
•  Crystal white in appearance
•  High solubility in water
•  High anti-bacteria, and longer shelf life