Amino acid derivative
5-HTP
5-Hydroxytryptophan
A direct serotonin precursor derived from the Griffonia seed. Potentially the most potent mood-related supplement here — and for exactly that reason, the one that demands the most caution.
5-HTP is a step removed from serotonin itself — the body converts it directly. That directness is exactly why it appears in mood research, and exactly why it carries more risk than anything else on this list.
We’ve deliberately rated its everyday-use evidence as emerging and wrapped it in warnings, because the realistic scenario for many people interested in mood supplements is that they may already be taking, or considering, a prescription antidepressant. Combining those with 5-HTP is the specific situation that can go wrong. Please treat the caution box above as the most important thing on this page.
What to look for
- A clean Griffonia simplicifolia extract
- A conversation with your doctor or pharmacist first if you take any medication
- Low starting doses, never stacked with other serotonergic supplements