Overview, Uses, Side Effects
PrecautionsInteractions Dosing Reviews (389) 
Overview
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a chemical by-product of the protein building block L-tryptophan. 
It is also produced commercially from the seeds of an African plant known as Griffonia simplicifolia.
5-HTP is used for sleep disorders such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
How does it work ?
 5-HTP works in the brain and central nervous system by increasing the production of the chemical serotonin. Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. 
 Since 5-HTP increases the synthesis of serotonin, it is used for several diseases where serotonin is believed to play an important role including depression, insomnia, obesity, and many other conditions.