Griffonia Seed and 5-HTP (5-hydroxy tryptophan),the magic seed from African folk medicine not only play as effective replacement for tryptophan,but more.

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5-Hydroxy Tryptophan Rivals Prescription Drugs.

Griffonia Seed Extract 5-Hydroxytryptophan 5HTP CAS 4350-09-8 photo picture image Amongst the most prevalent and frequently recurring disorders today are depression, insomnia, addiction, obsessive/compulsive behavior, PMS, obesity and anxiety. Many sufferers of such complaints rely on the long-term use of prescription drugs for help. Surprisingly these disparate disorders have a common biochemical origin. Even more surprisingly they can all be helped by a single natural supplement.

 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan or 5-HTP is the precursor to the important neurotransmitter serotonin, which regulates several vital processes in the body, including sleep, emotional stability, pain sensitivity and addictive cravings. When levels of serotonin drop too low, a vast array of symptoms, ranging from anxiety and insomnia to obsessive/compulsive behavior and suicidal depression, can occur.

 The body is able to manufacture serotonin from the amino acid tryptophan, which is found in certain foods. Many people who reach for ice cream, sweets and pastries when they feel stressed or depressed are instinctively attempting to increase their uptake of tryptophan to elevate their serotonin levels and improve their mood. Unfortunately, it takes great quantities of these "comfort foods" (with their unhelpful fat, sugar and calories) to significantly affect serotonin levels. Taking 5-HTP in the form of a supplement instead, can not only quickly improve your mood, it can even help control your appetite.

 Researchers believe that inadequate serotonin levels are in part responsible for the desire to overeat. Not surprisingly, obese individuals who crave carbohydrates usually show abnormally low levels of serotonin. Taking a 5-HTP supplement half an hour before a meal can " turn off" cravings and hunger pangs by feeding the brains carbohydrate satiety center. In this way 5-HTP can be a great asset as part of a weight-loss regime.

 One of the most exciting uses of 5-HTP is as an alternative anti-depressant drugs in the treatment of depression. In several trials 5-HTP has proved to be as effective as its prescription drug counterparts, but without any of their dangerous side effects.

 5-HTP can also be a godsend in overcoming addiction. The use of many addictive substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, caffeine and certain narcotics, elevates serotonin levels. When these substances are eliminated, serotonin levels drop drastically, causing anxiety and cravings. Taking 5-HTP can stabilize serotonin levels and help minimize the symptoms of withdrawal.

 PMS sufferers report pain relief, as well as decreased irritability and mood swings from using 5-HTP. The supplement works by countering the hormone-induced decrease in serotonin levels that occur naturally during menstruation.

 Because of its calming effect, many rely on 5-HTP to alleviate stress-attacks, as well as to encourage restful sleep. Unlike sedative drugs, 5-HTP is not associated with unwanted side effects, such as disturbed sleep patterns or grogginess. It can be taken regularly one hour before retiring as a remedy for insomnia.

 The normal dose of 5-HTP is 100mg per day and is best taken on an empty stomach. The use of 5-HTP is counter-indicated in some instances, for example in those at high risk of heart disease or strokes, in people with severe allergies, or for those taking anti-depressant medication. If in doubt as to its suitability for you, consult with your health care practitioner before taking 5-HTP.

 Note: Supplemental Tryptophan, derived from a process of fermentation, was banned in the USA in 1990, when it was wrongly believed to be associated with a serious blood disease. Although the FDA has not lifted the ban on Tryptophan, it approves the use of 5-HTP, which is derived from the seed of the Griffonia plant.

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citations1.Griffonia Seed and 5-HTP (5-hydroxy tryptophan),the magic seed from African folk medicine not only play as effective replacement for tryptophan,but more.

last edit date:2nd,June.2009.