5-Hydroxytryptophan

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino-acid derivative produced naturally in the body from tryptophan. It is an intermediate in the synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, appetite, and other physiological functions. Commercial 5-HTP is commonly produced from botanical sources such as Griffonia simplicifolia seed extracts.

In equine supplements, 5-HTP may be included in products intended to support calm behavior or stress management because of its relationship to serotonin metabolism. It is not an essential nutrient, and controlled research on supplemental 5-HTP in horses is limited. Because excessive serotonergic activity can produce adverse effects, 5-HTP should be used cautiously and should not be combined indiscriminately with medications or other compounds that influence serotonin.