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Amino Acids
5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan)
Direct serotonin precursor (crosses BBB); supports mood, sleep, appetite regulation
Gabriel Score
78/ 100Good
CategoryAmino Acids
Applications6 conditions
Forms5-HTP (from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds)
How it works
Direct serotonin precursor (crosses BBB); supports mood, sleep, appetite regulation
Typical Dosage
50-300mg/day (bedtime for sleep, divided for mood)
Used for
DepressionInsomniaAnxietyFibromyalgiaAppetite suppressionMigraines
Practical Guide
Available Forms
5-HTP (from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds)
Natural Food Sources
- •Not found in food (from Griffonia seeds)
Dosing should be individualized. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner.
The Science
Evidence Base
Good78/100
Bypasses tryptophan hydroxylase step; more direct than L-tryptophan; do NOT combine with SSRIs; may cause nausea initially
Works Well With
B6MagnesiumL-theanineMelatonin
Safety Profile
Interactions
- Serotonin syndrome risk with SSRIs, MAOIs
- May potentiate sedatives
Contraindications
- Concurrent SSRI/MAOI use
- Carcinoid syndrome
- Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome history
Trusted Brands
ThornePure EncapsulationsNOWJarrow
Build Your Protocol
Work with a practitioner to design a personalized supplement protocol.
Find a PractitionerCategoryAmino Acids
Applications6
Gabriel Score78/100
Educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement protocol.