About 5-HTP 

5-HTP, or to give its full name 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is a natural precursor to the “feel good” neurotransmitter serotonin, which is involved in balancing mood, cognition, memory and many other physiological processes. 5-HTP can then be further transformed into melatonin; the hormone released by the pineal gland to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

Cytoplan’s 5-HTP Plus contains 5-HTP in a natural and bioeffective form from the seeds of the shrub Griffonia Simplicifolia. We also include the active form of vitamin B6, and magnesium, which are both necessary for the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin.

What is 5-HTP used for?

5-HTP is the natural precursor to serotonin, and often recommended in supplement form due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. 5-HTP can be synthesised in the body from the amino acid tryptophan, found in foods such as lean poultry, tofu and soy, fish, milk, pumpkin seeds, oats and eggs – however this conversion isn’t always effective and supplementing directly with 5-HTP bypasses this process and may provide a higher availability for the body to product serotonin. 

Serotonin is manufactured in the brain and the gut, but found throughout the body and therefore can influence a wide variety of physical and mental functions – which is why supplementing with 5-HTP may be supportive for a number of different health concerns:

Mood – while the exact cause of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety is largely unknown, an imbalance in serotonin levels in the brain is thought to be one potential contributing factor in some cases, and therefore 5-HTP may be supportive. 

Sleep – serotonin can be further converted to melatonin; a hormone which plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Therefore 5-HTP can be useful for initiating sleep for some people, particularly if melatonin or serotonin levels are low. 

Appetite - it is thought that serotonin may have a role to play in appetite control, and therefore also in weight management. Serotonin is one of the key neurotransmitters involved in promoting feelings of satiety, or ‘fullness’ after a meal, and so low levels may contribute to problems associated with overeating.

Is 5-HTP safe?

At the stated dose of 1-2 capsules daily, 5-HTP can be a very safe supplement for most people. Some people do report gastrointestinal symptoms when they start to supplement with 5-HTP, so we would recommend starting with 1 capsule, then increasing to 2 after a week or two if tolerated well. 

Who should not take 5-HTP?

We don’t recommend our 5-HTP for children, pregnant or breastfeeding mothers or those taking some prescribed medications, including many anti-depressants or sleeping tablets. To discuss your individual needs, please drop our team of nutritional therapists an email at nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk.