Serum and tonus
Serotonin was isolated in 1948 at the Cleveland Clinic, by researchers looking for a substance in blood serum that made blood vessels contract. They called it serotonin, from serum and tonus, tension. Only later did it turn out that the substance also plays a major role in the brain and the gut. 5-HTP is the step before it.
Made in the United States
Doctor's Best obtains the 5-HTP from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a climbing shrub from Ghana and Ivory Coast. The ripe seeds contain 6 to 14% 5-HTP. The capsule is plant-based.
Facts about this product
One capsule contains 100 mg 5-HTP. Do not combine with antidepressants, sleeping pills, migraine medication, L-tryptophan or St John's wort. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
5-HTP, Griffonia simplicifolia extract by Doctor's Best
5-hydroxy l-tryptophan (5-HTP) is a natural metabolite, or intermediate compound. It derives from L-tryptophan and is the precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is subsequently converted into melatonin. 5-HTP can thus be used directly for this purpose, in contrast to L-tryptophan, which has to be converted first. 5-HTP is well-absorbed. After ingestion, 70% directly enters the bloodstream.
Benefits of 5-HTP
From Griffonia Simplicifolia extract. Precursor to serotonin and melatonin. Does not contain gluten or soy; GMO-free. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Griffonia simplicifolia extract
Doctor's Best 5-HTP is extracted from the African herb Griffonia simplicifolia, also called Bandeiraea simplicifolia. It is one of the traditional herbs that Europeans have imported from Africa. The plant is used in various regions of Africa for a range of indications. Before supplements with Griffonia simplicifolia extract became available, the pulp from the bark was used. The trunk and leaves also contain active ingredients. Often the bark is chewed.
History
In 1960, chemical analyses revealed that Griffonia simplicifolia seeds contain several 'indole' derivatives including 5-hydroxy L-tryptophan, also known as Oxitriptan and L-5-HTP. The most familiar name is 5-HTP. After the isolation and identification of the 5-HTP molecule, interest in Griffonia simplicifolia seeds quickly broadened due to the high concentrations it contains. In 1989, the United States instituted a ban on products containing L-tryptophan because of health risks from contaminated supplements. This ban increased the popularity of 5-HTP because it is a suitable, direct alternative.
L-tryptophan
It is important not to confuse 5-HTP with L-tryptophan. Although L-tryptophan is the direct precursor to 5-HTP, L-tryptophan is also converted within the body into a range of other substances. 5-HTP, on the other hand, is utilized only for serotonin production. Moreover, 5-HTP works faster than L-tryptophan.
Versatile in use
In addition to its role as a traditional herb, the Griffonia simplicifolia plant is also used in daily life by, among others, the inhabitants of Ghana. For example, the wood is used as a walking stick because of its strong structure, women make facial powder from the roots, and the leaves are used in the production of black dye.
From extracts
The seeds of this plant are mainly used in supplements. Ripened seeds contain about 6-14% of 5-HTP and are harvested annually. Processing of the seeds is similar to the processing of cocoa (often the same production facilities are used). The semi-finished product from this process forms the basis for the purer extracts that end up in the capsules.
About Doctor's Best
Doctor's Best was founded in 1990 by a physician because of his interest in the scientific basis of wholesome nutrition. The company produces over 200 high-quality nutritional supplements. All products are made from branded raw materials and are carefully tested during every step of the production process, from raw material to finished product. Production takes place on the strict basis of Current Good Manufacturing Practice Guidelines (cGMP). Doctor's Best works with nutrition scientists worldwide to find new, tested ingredients. This results in high-quality end products, developed according to the latest scientific insights.
Standardized brand products
In its products Doctor's Best almost exclusively uses proprietary and standardized brand materials of official trademarks that have been extensively researched. The authenticity of these ingredients is guaranteed in all products. Doctor's Best never uses alternatives. This results in a qualitatively superior line of supplements with very high bioavailability.
