Amino Acids & Peptides
REACH
L-5-Hydroxytryptophan
CAS Number
4350-09-8
EC Number
224-411-1
Abbreviation
5-HTP
What is L-5-Hydroxytryptophan?
L-5-Hydroxytryptophan (CAS 4350-09-8), commonly known as 5-HTP, is a naturally occurring amino acid precursor. Also marketed as Oxitriptan or Griffonia Seed Extract.
Where is L-5-Hydroxytryptophan used?
- Nutraceuticals: core active in dietary supplement capsules and tablets for sleep quality, appetite regulation and mood balance
- Pharmaceuticals: clinical and OTC product development where Oxitriptan is an established API
- Functional food and beverage: fortified products
- Cosmetics: antioxidant activity in anti-aging serums and moisturizing treatments
- It serves as a direct biosynthetic precursor to serotonin.
Good to know: Commercially extracted from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia. Material derived from Griffonia seed extract is the dominant commercial form, with supporting documentation for botanical traceability.
Commercial specifications
- Purity typically 98% or higher by HPLC
Other Names (Synonyms)
Oxitriptan|Griffonia Seed Extract|Griffonia Seed Extract (5-htp)|(2S)-2-amino-3-(5-hydroxy-1H-indol-3-yl)propanoic acid|5-Hydroxy-L-tryptophan|5-HTP
What are the physical properties of L-5-Hydroxytryptophan?
Melting Point 273 °C (decomp)
Boiling Point 361.16°C (rough estimate)
Density 0.902 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.)
Flash Point 175 °F
Appearance white to pale grey powder
Color white
Form solid
Water Solubility Slightly soluble
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.4850(lit.)
Log P -0.140 (est)
How is L-5-Hydroxytryptophan classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS06· Toxic GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H301 Toxic if swallowed
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to L-5-Hydroxytryptophan?
HS Code 29339990
UN Number 2811
ADR Class 6.1
Packing Group III
Storage Class 6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3
toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany) 3