Griffonia (Griffonia simplicifolia) is a plant native to central-western Africa belonging to the Leguminosae family.
Widely used in the ancient African tradition to heal wounds and against kidney disorders, today it is recognized as a remedy for depression, anxiety and insomnia. Let’s discover the characteristics and side effects of griffonia.
Griffonia: characteristics and properties
Griffonia is a large woody shrub with greenish flowers, gathered in inflorescences and black bean-like seeds (in fact, it is also called African bean).
Griffonia seeds contain 5-hydroxy-tryptophan (5-HTP), a precursor of serotonin, a neurotransmitter useful for regulating mood, sleep and appetite.
Griffonia is, therefore, a natural antidepressant, also useful for controlling nervous hunger and regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
Griffonia Side Effects
Griffonia can be taken regularly without causing particular side effects. In fact, there are few cases of people who, following the assumption of griffonia, present:
- nausea,
- meteorism,
- stomach ache,
- redness of the skin.
These side effects are mostly due to the body’s need to get used to this new substance, so they generally disappear within a few weeks.
In any case, it is always good to consult a doctor before using griffonia and to avoid it altogether in case of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
