What is Griffonia Seed Extract and What Are Its Benefits?

Griffonia seed extract is a natural supplement which is extracted from the Griffonia Simplicifolia plant. This plant is native to West and Central Africa, which yields green flowers and seed pods. It is the seeds that contains the compound 5-HTP, which is of interest to the nootropic community.

Since 5-HTP is important for the production of serotonin, Griffonia seed extract has been researched for its nootropic abilities. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that control mood, appetite, and sleep. When serotonin is increased, feelings of anxiety and depression decrease.

Since this supplement is natural and herbally sourced, it’s the most popular form of 5-HTP supplement sold. It is said to be highly safe, while providing multiple benefits.

History of Griffonia Simplicifolia

As mentioned, this plant is native to Africa. It typically grows about ten feet tall, producing small seeds. These seeds are then harvested for their 5-HTP content. Within these seeds, 5-HTP exists in a pure state, being a natural intermediary for processing tryptophan into the neurotransmitter serotonin.

These seeds are traditionally ground into a powder. They are also consumed in tea, for medicinal purposes. When consumed, the user experiences enhanced mood. Due to these effects, it has been used in folk medicine for a number of years, targeting a variety of light ailments.

It was only recently that the discovery was made regarding 5-HTP. Today, these seeds are exported for this purpose, as many are now taking this supplement to boost their mood naturally. Due to very little negative effects, it is a prefered choice over antidepressants by many users.

griffonia_seedsHow Does Griffonia Seed Extract Work?

Serotonin is made from tryptophan, which is found within our diet (or often supplemented). Although this is true in theory, individuals who suffer from mood disorders and anxiety tend to have low levels of serotonin.

Supplementing with tryptophan has been found to be effective. However, it is even more effective to supplement with 5-HTP. This is because 5-HTP is converted into serotonin at a faster rate. Since Griffonia is one of the few natural sources of 5-HTP, it has become increasingly popular.

Once Griffonia is taken, it’s broken down within the liver. 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is then released into the blood stream, making its way to the blood-brain barrier. Once it crosses this barrier, it’s able to target the brain, being converted into serotonin and binds to receptors.

The effects of Griffonia are experienced, due to an increase in serotonin. Although dopamine is often increased through nootropic supplements, Griffonia actually has the opposite effect. When dopamine levels drop, the benefits of increased serotonin are experienced further. Feelings of pleasure and contentment increase, creating various benefits for your mental state.

Griffonia’s Role in Dopamine Levels

As mentioned, this supplement effects dopamine levels. Instead of increasing them like many nootropics, Griffonia controls dopamine levels that are over-abundant. Although medications like Adderall target dopamine levels, causing an increase, this does not work harmoniously with a calm mood. Since 5-HTP takes a more natural, softer approach, one’s cognition is soothed and calmed.

Benefits of Griffonia

When users take Griffonia on a dose-dependent basis, levels of anxiety are decreased. Due to its effects on serotonin, this supplement produces feelings of relaxation, confidence, and an increased well-being. It is also noted for releasing built-up tension, while improving symptoms of depression.

One of the key benefits is how natural it is. It is a mood enhancer that is in its natural state. Not only does it improve mood, but it can provide pain relief from headaches and muscle strains. This is more than likely due to its effects on tension and stress.

Griffonia is being researched for its potential benefits for ADHD treatment. It is believed to control impulsive behaviour. Once again, this benefit is linked to high levels of serotonin. Research is still being conducted, looking for further benefits regarding ADHD treatment.

This supplement has also made its way into the weight-loss community, as it is an active appetite suppressant. When you consume 5-HTP, you feel satiated, preventing feelings of hunger and the consumption of excessive amounts of food. This is becoming an option for individuals who want to stick to their strict diet plan.

Is Griffonia Safe to Take Regularly?

This plant has been used for thousands of years, providing medicinal benefits. Due to this vast history, there’s already a proven track record of safety. When taken in proper doses, modern use is said to be safe. When users take 100 mg or less a day, the effects are not only harmless, but effective.

Generally, users take this supplement in the morning, just as they would take a vitamin. Others take this supplement when they’re feeling the effects of depression, stress, or anxiety. It is acceptable to take this supplement when needed, as long as you stick to the recommended dosage (some take up to 200 mg daily). Speak with your doctor before increasing your intake.

Users should take caution if they are already taking anti-anxiety or anti-depression medications. If users are exposed to a surplus of serotonin, then acute serotonin syndrome may be possible. This is a serious syndrome, creating negative effects. So, please avoid taking this supplement if you’re currently taking medication for these conditions.

Recommended Dosage

This supplement is generally packaged in 50 mg capsules. When first beginning to take this supplement, start with one capsule a day. You should not exceed 4 capsules, even if you’re an experienced user. This is due to the possible effects mentioned above. If you’re taking a larger dose, you can spread your intake into two doses.

When you split doses, this ensures that serotonin levels stay stable throughout the day. Since some researchers would not suggest doses over 100 mg daily, start with a small dose and see how you’re affected. Many users do not need to take 200 mg to experience positive effects.

Griffonia Simplicifolia Alternative

Although this a a natural, safe supplement, some users do not like the sound of the potential risks. There are hundreds of supplements to choose from, so users can pinpoint the exact benefits in which they’d like to experience.

When starting out, focus on a choline supplement. When you take choline, you’re supplying your brain with the materials it needs to produce acetylcholine. Choline also improves the growth of neural structures, increasing the brain’s ability to communicate signals, while aiding in memory.

If you’re looking to boost your mood, try taking Aniraceteam. Not only is mood improved, but cognitive functioning is also positively affected. This leads to increased concentration and better memory formation.