5-HTP is a chemical compound that is naturally produced in your body as it makes serotonin, an important hormone for regulating your mood. Some doctors consider 5-HTP to be the best natural appetite suppressant. 5-HTP is also naturally produced in various plants, including the seeds of griffonia simplicifolia, a West African shrub. In addition to suppressing your appetite, there is some research that suggests that 5-HTP can also help treating headaches, insomnia, and depression.