Griffonia Simplicifolia is a medicinal plant indigenous to West and Central Africa. It often grows to a height of about three meters. Some common names of Griffonia Simplicifolia includes: Atooto, Gbogbotri and Kanya. The plant’s medicinal properties help in treating depression, sleep disorders and skin diseases. Griffonia may also act as appetite suppressant and, therefore could help in the treatment of obesity. The parts of the Griffonia plant which have medicinal properties include the seeds, Flowers, leaves and root bark.
The seeds of Griffonia contain a molecule known as 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). This 5-HTP molecule is absorbed by the human body in the form of Serotonin. This serotonin is a special neurotransmitter responsible for happiness and anti-depression in humans by neutralizing the hormones that cause depression in humans. There has been scientific proof that depression weakens the immune systems of humans, therefore the antidepressant properties of Griffonia seeds help to boost the immune system.
Consuming 5-HTP increases the production of a hormone known as Melatonin, which is responsible for improved quality sleep in humans. There are several scientific evidences that links quality sleep to improved and strong immune system in humans. Several scientific researches show that people who sleep long hours are unlikely to catch cold and develop immune related diseases like, auto-immune disorders and cancers.
Griffonia Simplicifolia also acts as an appetite suppressant and helps in treating obesity. Obesity has been clinically proven to weaken the immune system of humans. Griffonia Simplicifolia produces Serotonin and Leptin which are responsible for neutralizing hormones like leptin, insulin, estrogens and androgens which affects the appetite and metabolism in humans thus preventing weight gain and obesity.
The 5-HTP and the neurotransmitter; Serotonin are proven to natural sexual enhancers. Improved sexual performance is known to reduce stress and therefore strengthens the immune system. Increased libido, popularly known as “going on a long journey” is known to reduce stress and anxiety in humans. The reduction in stress and anxiety then leads to an improved and strengthened immune system.
Griffonia Simplicifolia has other medicinal properties. These properties include but not limited to:
helping in fighting skin infections;
helping fight inflammation and detoxification of the skin; and
improving a healthy and beautiful skin.
