L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is converted into L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) in the body. 5-HTP is then converted into serotonin and melatonin. Normal serotonin levels have been associated with normal moods, appropriate appetite and weight maintenance, and proper sleep. ARG 5-HTP is derived from a plant source, and is carefully tested to ensure its purity and to guarantee the absence of contaminants.
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 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.
The dietary intake of neurotransmitter precursors has been subject to questions of efficacy, and the extra ingestion of plant derived promoters of serotonin provide a way of ensuring optimal availability of essential neurotransmitters.
In theory, L-tyrosine, adenosyl-L-methionine, tryptophan, vitamin B6, chromium, melatonin, niacin, SAMe, St. John's wort, herbs and supplements with monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) activity, and magnesium may increase the effects or side effects associated with 5-HTP.