5-HTP

5-HTP ( 5-Hydroxytryptophan ) is derived from the Amino Acid Tryptophan and is considered an intermediate metabolite in the serotonin pathway. 5-HTP is a building block to make melatonin and the neurotransmitter serotonin. 5-HTP products are usually derived from the plant source, Griffonia simplicifolia.

5-HTP should not be used by people currently being treated with or who have recently been treated with
an SSRI antidepressant such as Prozac, Paxil, or Zoloft without consulting with a physician.

Metabolism

 5-HTP possesses Antioxidants properties.  ^[1]

 5-HTP may reduce Appetite in persons afflicted with Obesity. Low serotonin levels in obese patients have been associated with carbohydrate cravings.  ^[2]

Musculoskeletal System

 5-HTP may reduce or alleviate symptons of Fibromyalgia.  ^[3]

Nervous System

 5-HTP may reduce Aggressiveness (without decreasing Assertiveness).  ^[4]

 5-HTP may alleviate Anxiety.  ^[5]

 5-HTP may reduce Appetite in persons afflicted with Obesity:  ^[6]

 5-HTP may reduce Carbohydrate Cravings (due to 5-HTP's role in the production of Serotonin).  ^[7]

 5-HTP may increase Assertiveness (non-aggressive Assertiveness). 

 5-HTP may be beneficial for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) patients (due to its role as a precursor for the production of Serotonin, a Neurotransmitter that is commonly depleted in people with ADHD).  ^[8]

 5-HTP may alleviate various forms of Depression (including Depression - Endogenous, Depression - Major and Depression - Reactive).  ^[9]

 5-HTP may be a valuable adjutant therapy for Down's Syndrome. 

 5-HTP may be a valuable adjutant therapy for Epilepsy. 

 5-HTP may prevent Headaches (especially Tension Headaches).  ^[10]