eccles Posted February 13, 2002 in my readings I just came across a reference to the seeds of a West African plant called Griffonia simplicifolia. They apparently contain not less than 95% 5-HTP by dry weight. I find this most interesting, and would like to know more about this plant, the availability of seeds and whether we could grow it here. The 5-HTP can be extracted in alchohol and then recrystalized to purify it. If it was possible to grow this plant then that would be a nice source for a useful (and legal) compound. It is not listed in 'Species Data', but I am sure I would not be alone in my desire to see it offered by SAB... (I realise it is probably not a shamanically used plant - although I do not know this for sure, but if we can have non-assayed Acacia's listed then we can have a 5-HTP bearing plant listed too Anyway, I am off to try to find out more about this... In the meantime - does anyone know anything about it? Would there be regulations prohibiting its import? lots of interesting plants are banned imports... see you all at EB Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Darklight Posted February 13, 2002 Have you tried a search of the forums under it's name Griffonia? I believe some discussion has taken place on it here before, though whether it was lost during the forum crashes I don't know... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest HedgeWitch Posted February 15, 2002 Hi Eccles, Griffonia simplicifolia seeds are avalable from www.richters.com for about $12.70AU. This is what they say about it: Tender Perennial Uses: medicinal industrial Anti-depression herb from Africa. Seeds are an important source of the amino acid 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a precursor for the natural synthesis of serotonin in the body. Serotonin is a brain neurotransmitter that directly affects depression and other conditions. Griffonia extracts are used to treat depression, insomnia, obesity, jet lag, anxiety, fibromyalgia and obsessive-compulsive behaviour. Studies show that the effect of 5-HTP on depression isdramatic. In weight control, 5-HTP removes the craving for carbohydrates by boosting serotonin levels in the same way that eating excessive carbohydrates does. The seeds are also a source for lectins used in medical science. In African folklore, the herb is reputed to be an aphrodisiac, as well as an antibiotic and as a remedy for diarrhea, vomiting, and stomachache. Attractive, easy to grow vine, in full or partial sun. and this is what AQIS (Quarantine)say about Griffonia: Non-commercial consignments of seed of this species may be permitted entry into Australia subject to inspection on arrival. Seed must be free from soil, live insects, plant material (eg fruit pulp, leaf or stem material, etc), contamination with prohibited seeds and packed in new containers that are clearly labelled with the botanical name. Their search site is: http://www.aqis.gov.au/icon/asp/ex_querycontent.asp Hope this helps Cheers Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
theobromos Posted February 15, 2002 Only about 10% of the seed, I think, not 95%. Still a remarkable content of desirable compounds. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
t st tantra Posted February 19, 2002 my seeds of this 'easy to grow' plant have all moulded or rotted .help? t s t . Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Torsten Posted February 19, 2002 My supplier told me he also supplies richters. I have never been able to germinate any of mine and have a couple of kilos sitting here. 'easy to grow'.... my foot. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Andrew Posted February 20, 2002 . [This message has been edited by Andrew (edited 20 February 2002).] Share this post Link to post Share on other sites