Health Benefits of Griffonia simplicifolia Extract

Griffonia seeds are obtained from Griffonia simplicifolia, a woody climbing shrub native to Africa. Griffonia seeds have been used in African traditional medicine for their health-promoting properties for centuries. 1 

Today, Griffonia seed extracts are gaining popularity in the natural health product market for their concentration of the bioactive compound 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). 1 

5-HTP offers a wide range of potential therapeutic benefits, making Griffonia simplicifolia extracts an increasingly attractive supplement choice. 

Botanical Name– Griffonia simplicifolia  

Plant Parts Used– Seeds 

Active Constituents– 5-HTP 

Specifications– Griffonia seed extract (20% – 99% 5-HTP, HPLC) 

Extract Ratio– 4:1 

Mood Regulation: 

One of the primary uses of Griffonia seed extract is as a natural mood regulator. The body produces 5-HTP from the amino acid tryptophan and converts it into serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that regulates sleep, appetite, pain sensation, and mood. 2 9 

Research indicates that 5-HTP in Griffonia extract can effectively elevate serotonin levels in the brain. Multiple studies have found it can help improve symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially when used in combination with antidepressant medication. 3 

1. Reduced Depression: Studies suggest it might alleviate symptoms of mild to moderate depression, with some showing comparable efficacy to conventional antidepressants in specific cases. However, the research landscape lacks robust, large-scale studies to draw definitive conclusions. 

2. Anxiety Relief: Increased serotonin levels might contribute to calmer moods, potentially lowering anxiety. While early animal studies indicate promise, further research is crucial to solidify its role in managing anxiety disorders. 

3. Appetite control: It may aslo reduce aggression and binge eating associated with premenstrual syndrome. 4a 4b  

Sleep Quality Enhancement

Griffonia supplements may aid sleep regulation through their impact on serotonin. Increasing serotonin leads to increased production of melatonin, a key sleep hormone. A randomized placebo-controlled study found 5-HTP reduced time to fall asleep and increased sleep amounts in those with sleep disorders.  The calming effects of 5-HTP may promote overall sleep quality. 3 

Also Read: 10 Health Benefits of Green Tea Extract

Natural Pain Relief: 

Griffonia seed extract, derived from the Griffonia simplicifolia plant, holds promise as a natural remedy for pain relief. Rich in 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), it influences serotonin production, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation and pain perception. This extract has gained attention for its potential to alleviate various types of discomfort, offering a comprehensive approach to pain management. Some human studies suggest that the serotonin-boosting properties of Griffonia seed extract may contribute to reducing pain sensitivity and promoting a sense of well-being. The body’s serotonin system regulates pain perception, and research suggests 5-HTP may have analgesic effects. More research is needed, but Griffonia extracts show promise in complementary pain management. 5

Weight Management: 

The potential role of 5-HTP in supporting weight loss is highlighted in recent studies. A 2017 experiment involving healthy participants revealed that those taking a 5-HTP supplement exhibited a heightened brain response to protein-rich foods, suggesting a potential reduction in cravings for unhealthy foods. 6 

This is significant as protein intake is linked to maintaining a healthy body weight. Another study involving 20 overweight women, half of whom took a 5-HTP supplement for 4 weeks, demonstrated that the treated group reported increased feelings of satiety during meals, leading to reduced food intake and a decrease in BMI. While these studies are limited, they offer promising insights into the potential benefits of 5-HTP for weight loss, emphasizing the need for larger-scale research to validate these findings. 6

Neuroprotective Properties: 

The antioxidant effects of 5-HTP may help protect the nervous system against oxidative damage and age-related decline. Animal studies found that 5-HTP prevented oxidative damage and improved antioxidant capacity in brain tissue. Other research shows that 5-HTP may reduce inflammation in the brain. More human studies are needed, but these preliminary findings suggest a neuroprotective role for Griffonia extract. 7 

Adverse Effects 

When used appropriately, Griffonia seed extracts are generally well tolerated by most people. However, some minor side effects are possible, including heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

5-HTP can also cause excessive serotonin production in some cases, resulting in serious complications. Those on antidepressants or pain medications should use Griffonia supplements only under medical supervision due to the risks of serotonin syndrome. Griffonia extracts have a relatively safe profile when used moderately, but more research is still needed on their long-term effects. 8

The multifaceted benefits of Griffonia seed extract are evident in various studies. In one investigation, a combination of Griffonia and magnesium showcased a remarkable 36% reduction in the prevalence of motion sickness in treated children compared to the non-treated group. Another study with overweight women revealed that 5-HTP from Griffonia extract, administered orally, significantly increased satiety and contributed to a decrease in BMI. Furthermore, Griffonia seed extract exhibited anxiolytic effects in rats, indicating potential for anxiety treatment. Interestingly, the extract also influenced sexual behavior in male rats, demonstrating effects on copulatory behavior and serotonin levels. 9  

Note: While the information provided is based on credible references, we do not make any specific claims or guarantees. It is important to consult with your healthcare advisor for personalized advice and guidance related to your health. No content on this site, regardless of date, should be used to replace direct medical advice from your doctor or another trained practitioner.