The back-to-school period is often a source of stress and can be accompanied by a little bit of sadness due to the end of vacations and the arrival of autumn. To help you get through this difficult emotional phase, we suggest discovering a plant known for its anti-stress and mood-enhancing properties: griffonia.
Griffonia is a plant from the Fabaceae family whose seeds are used in phytotherapy.
This plant, whose botanical name is Griffonia simplicifolia, is a vine native to West Africa and Central Africa.
It can reach heights of 3 to 10 meters and produces ovoid pods filled with seeds. Each pod contains between one and four seeds that are bright green or brown in color.
In herbal medicine, it is the seeds of Griffonia that are used because they contain a high concentration of 5-HTP or 5-hydroxytryptophan. This molecule is a natural precursor of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that participates in mood regulation.
Thanks to its ability to increase serotonin secretion and regulate its levels, Griffonia simplicifolia is generally considered a natural alternative to SSRIs antidepressants and synthetic anxiolytics.
This plant acts on the nervous system and provides better resistance to stress to help you regain more serenity and good mood in your daily life.
Thanks to its high content of 5-HTP in its seeds, griffonia is indicated for treating mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
This plant is generally sold as dietary supplements (in ampoules, capsules, gummies, or tablets) and presented as a natural anti-stress remedy that can improve sleep and appetite disorders.
Some even recommend the use of this plant to quit smoking! During a difficult smoking cessation, Griffonia simplicifolia can indeed help regulate mood and sleep. It promotes falling asleep and allows for quick and restorative sleep.
In case of prolonged stress, a course of this plant can help you overcome seasonal depression or nervous fatigue possibly accompanied by insomnia.
The seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia containing a natural precursor of serotonin, dietary supplements based on griffonia should never be taken at the same time as antidepressants.
They should also not be mixed with other medicinal plants with antidepressant effects such as St. John's wort for example.
However, in some dietary supplements, Griffonia simplicifolia is combined with other anti-stress plants such as rhodiola for a synergistic action on mood and serenity.
This plant also has several contraindications. It should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 18 years old, as well as people with hypotension or scleroderma.
It is recommended to take griffonia, preferably in the evening. This plant can cause drowsiness, so remember to adjust the timing of intake to avoid any danger while driving or during your daily activities!
The treatment can also cause mild side effects, such as gastrointestinal disorders and nausea.
As an indication, a dosage of 50 to 100 mg of 5-HTP per day is recommended to balance mood and treat temporary anxiety and depression. However, for treating insomnia and achieving restful sleep, a higher dose of 100 to 200 mg per day is recommended.
If you are taking other medications, consult your doctor before starting a cure of Griffonia simplicifolia to avoid any drug interactions.
Author Audrey on 10 October 2023
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