Evidence supporting the use of: Griffonia simplicifolia
For the body system: Serotonin

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Griffonia simplicifolia is a West African plant whose seeds are a natural source of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a direct precursor to serotonin. The rationale for its use in supporting the serotonin system is based on the biochemical role of 5-HTP in serotonergic neurotransmission. When ingested, 5-HTP from Griffonia simplicifolia is converted in the body to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite. Several clinical studies have explored oral 5-HTP supplementation (often derived from Griffonia) for conditions believed to be linked to serotonergic dysfunction, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. Some randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have reported modest benefits of 5-HTP in alleviating depressive symptoms and improving sleep, though results are not uniformly consistent and many studies are limited by small sample sizes and methodological weaknesses. There is biological plausibility and preliminary evidence for Griffonia-derived 5-HTP’s effect on serotonin, but high-quality, large-scale clinical trials are lacking. Thus, the use of Griffonia simplicifolia to support the serotonin system is justified by scientific understanding and preliminary clinical evidence, but the overall strength of the evidence is moderate rather than robust.

More about Griffonia simplicifolia
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Other body systems supported by Griffonia simplicifolia

Brain
Nerves
Serotonin
Specific Neurotransmitters

Products containing Griffonia simplicifolia

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