Griffonia is a plant currently valued for its health and medical potential because of 5-HTP, an amino acid found in griffonia seeds as well as in the human body. This amino acid is produced when the body metabolizes tryptophan, which is infamous for inducing sleep after a big turkey dinner. Origin 1. Griffonia simplicifolia is a highly adaptable shrub native to central and west Africa. In addition to griffonia seeds, the shrub also produces palatable herbage. Folk Medicine 2. In traditional African medicine, griffonia seed has been used as an aphrodisiac, as an antibiotic and as a remedy for diarrhea. 5-HTP 3. 5-HTP is an amino acid found in griffonia seeds that affects the brain&＃39;s neurochemistry. It is an intermediate in the process by which the body makes serotonin from tryptophan. According to 5-HTP.org.uk, the amino acid could be a natural replacement for prozac and other synthetic antidepressants. Serotonin Levels 4. Griffonia seeds, because of their 5-HTP content, are used to raise serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is an important chemical for brain function, helping to regulate mood, appetite and sleeping habits. Fibromyalgia 5. MDidea reports that griffonia seeds can be used to alleviate pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia. Like migraine headaches, fibromyalgia is a low-serotonin syndrome and can be treated with 5-HTP. Appetite and Weight Loss 6. Because of the way griffonia seed affects serotonin levels, the extract can be used to regulate eating habits. MDidea reports that griffonia Read more: What is Griffonia Seed Used For? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/facts_5644795_griffonia-seed-used-for_.html#ixzz18TI2E46