Found exclusively in West and Central Africa, the Griffonia simplicifolia plant has made a name for itself not only because it reaches 10 feet tall, but rather due to the extensive list of health benefits it has provided since ancient times. Now, to break this down, it is not the plant itself that offers the benefits, but the seed of the plant. The Griffonia seed is a black, dime-sized seed that contains the largest amount of the compound 5-HTP, making up nearly 20% of its composition. 5-HTP is a chemical that serves as a precursor to the synthesis of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. When serotonin levels increase, feelings of anxiety and depression drop, feelings of well-being elevate, and you can count on a good nightâ??s rest. Found exclusively in West and Central Africa, the Griffonia simplicifolia plant has made a name for itself not only because it reaches 10 feet tall, but rather due to the extensive list of health benefits it has provided since ancient times. Now, to break this down, it is not the plant itself that offers the benefits, but the seed of the plant. The Griffonia seed is a black, dime-sized seed that contains the largest amount of the compound 5-HTP, making up nearly 20% of its composition. 5-HTP is a chemical that serves as a precursor to the synthesis of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. When serotonin levels increase, feelings of anxiety and depression drop, feelings of well-being elevate, and you can count on a good night's rest.