Griffonia simplicifolia

Griffonia simplicifolia is a climbing plant from West Africa, grown mainly in Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo. Its seeds naturally contain 5-hydroxytryptophan, usually shortened to 5-HTP. Almost every product here is therefore a seed extract standardised to a fixed percentage of 5-HTP, which is why you also find it in our herbal range.

The percentage on the label decides your real dose

Two products can both say 500 mg of griffonia extract and still differ by half. The number that matters is the standardisation. 500 mg at 20% gives 100 mg of 5-HTP. The same 500 mg at 30% gives 150 mg. Some labels quote a whole seed equivalent instead, for example 3,500 mg per capsule. That figure describes raw seed, not what you take. Compare products on the milligrams of 5-HTP per capsule, then on price per 100 mg. On the UK market, 50 mg and 100 mg per capsule are the usual strengths.

Forms and added ingredients change how you use it

Capsules and tablets are the common choices. Tablets can be pressed small at higher strengths, capsules are easier to open or split across the day. Gastro-resistant capsules release later in the digestive tract, which suits people who find a plain capsule sits heavily on an empty stomach. Gummies exist, but usually carry less 5-HTP per serving. Combination formulas add vitamin B6, magnesium or valerian root. Worth knowing: vitamin B6 contributes to normal psychological function, and that approved statement belongs to the B6 itself, not to the griffonia beside it. If your evening routine is the reason you are here, the wider sleep and rest selection is the logical next stop.

How we choose griffonia at BONO

We look first at the standardised 5-HTP content, not at the extract weight. A label that only shouts about whole seed equivalent tells you very little, so we prefer products that state the milligrams of 5-HTP per capsule. We stock both lower strengths around 50 mg and 100 mg options, because most people start low and adjust. In combination formulas we check that the added vitamin B6 stays within sensible daily limits. We buy directly from the brands, every product passes our compliance team, and independent labs spot-check batches. Read how we select brands and products.

Who it suits, and the honest part

Griffonia suits adults who want a plant source of 5-HTP in a measured, repeatable dose. If you prefer a single purified compound without plant material, isolated 5-HTP is the simpler route. Be realistic about the timeline: give a routine two to three weeks of consistent use before you judge it, and keep the dose steady in that period. There is no approved EU or GB health claim for griffonia or 5-HTP, so we do not promise you an outcome. Mild drowsiness is reported by some users, so see how it affects you before driving. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and if you take antidepressants, speak to your GP before starting.