Comparison
5-HTP vs L-Tryptophan
5-HTP
Direct serotonin precursor, one step closer than tryptophan. Sourced from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds.
L-Tryptophan
Essential amino acid precursor to serotonin and melatonin. Used for sleep and mood support.
| Field | 5-HTP | L-Tryptophan |
|---|---|---|
| Category | amino-acid | amino-acid |
| Dose range | 50–200mg | 500–2000mg |
| Half-life | 2h | 2h |
| Onset | — | — |
| Evidence | EVIDENCEB | EVIDENCEB |
| Safety | ●●●○○ | ●●●●● |
| Legal (US) | USOTC | USOTC |
| PubMed refs | 460 | 1700 |
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