Healthy Origins 5-HTP is a naturally occuring standardized extract of Griffonia simplicifolia containing greater than 99% pure 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). Extracts of Griffonia simplicifolia have been used traditionally in African medicine to inhibit diarrhea, vomiting and constipation, and as an aphrodisiac. 5-HTP is a precursor of serotonin (5-HT).

The diverse physiological funtions of serotonin in the body include actions as a neurotransmitter, a regulator of smooth muscle function in the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal system, and a regulator of platelet function. Serotonin is involved in numerous central nervous system actions such as regulating mood, sleep and appetite. In the gastrointestinal system, serotonin stimulates gastric motility. Serotonin also stimulates platelet aggregation.