Stress is the human body’s natural response to situations that may be challenging or demanding. Anxiety is the unpleasant but temporary feeling that preludes stressful situations.
Feelings of anxiousness go hand-in-hand with stress and may spur people to bring out the best in themselves.
But severe anxiety becomes problematic, can physically and emotionally affect people, and can further result in health complications such as insomnia, depression, etc. which may require medical intervention.
Getting adequate sleep, using relaxation techniques such as doing yoga or sports can help lower anxiety. Intake of certain herbal supplements or vital nutrients may also complement or reduce dependency on medications to treat anxiety.
Anxiety supplements are available online as liquid extracts, tablets, capsules, gummies, oils, and teas, without a prescription. Take a look at our 6 favorite anxiety supplements and choose the product that fits your needs the best.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Natural Anxiety Supplement: VitaPost Stress Support
2. Best Anxiety Supplement With Magnesium: Natural Rhythm Triple Calm Magnesium
3. Best Gummies Anxiety Supplement: Olly Goodbye Stress
4. Best Anxiety Supplement With Ashwagandha: Nature’s Bounty Anxiety & Stress Relief
5. Best 5-HTP Tablets for Anxiety Support: Natrol 5_HTP
6. Best Vegan Liquid Capsules for Anxiety Relief: Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P.
Now let’s see these anxiety supplements in detail to find out why they are considered the best in their categories.
1. Best Natural Anxiety Supplement – VitaPost Stress Support
Natural plant-based ingredients have been used since traditional times to treat anxiety and stress-related issues. Modern research too has confirmed the use of natural herbs and their components to treat anxiety-related issues effectively (1).
About VitaPost Stress Support
VitaPost Stress Support is a well-known dietary supplement that can help deal with stress and provide relief from anxiety. Suitable for men and women, it promotes a relaxed mind and a positive outlook for clarity and performance.
Formulated with well-researched ingredients in a proprietary blend and essential vitamins and minerals, Stress Support is a powerful supplement that provides therapeutic benefits to promote mental wellness.
Stress Support is made by Vita Balance in an FDA-registered GMP-compliant facility in the USA. The ingredients which are sourced domestically and imported are free of GMOs and fit for safe consumption.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 veggie capsules has:
- Proprietary blend of herbal ingredients – 831 mg
- B Vitamins (B1. B2, B3, B5)
- Biotin – 300 mcg
- Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc – 25 mg each
- Potassium – 4 mg
The proprietary blend is made of powerful herbs such as Rhodiola Rosea, Ashwagandha, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Hops, GABA, Skullcap, Hawthorn, Bacopa, Valerian, L-theanine, St. John’s Wort, Magnolia, 5-HTP which have proven stress-relieving capabilities.
Stress Support is available in 60 capsules and provides 30 servings. The suggested dosage is 2 capsules a day, taken 20-30 minutes before meals with 8 oz. of water or as recommended by a practitioner.
VitaBalance Stress Support is free from gluten. The capsules are made of vegetable cellulose and hence suitable for all including vegans.
The Pros:
- High-quality non-GMO ingredients
- A potent combination of herbs, vitamins, and minerals to combat anxiety
- Vegetable capsules
- Gluten-free
Summary: VitaPost Stress Support is a top-ranking supplement with 100% natural ingredients and vital nutrients. Packed in vegetable capsules, this product promotes a good mood and a relaxed mind to relieve stress effectively.
2. Best Anxiety Supplement With Magnesium – Natural Rhythm Triple Calm Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports many bodily functions. Chelated magnesium supplements are deemed to be more bioavailable and better absorbed to promote greater mental wellness.
Magnesium Taurate which contains the amino acid taurine is believed to exert therapeutic effects to lower cardiac stress and increase brain concentrations of magnesium to lower anxiety (2).
Magnesium Malate is considered the most bioavailable form of magnesium to replenish depleted levels in the body.
Magnesium Glycinate contains the essential amino acid glycine which is a prominent neurotransmitter in the brain. Studies have shown that Magnesium glycinate along with taurine can help treat even major depression (3).
About Natural Rhythm Triple Calm Magnesium
Triple Calm Magnesium by Natural Rhythm is a unique supplement loaded with magnesium salts that can replenish magnesium levels in the body to support an anxiety-free relaxed mind and promote good nervous and cardiovascular health.
Made with 3 essential magnesium components, this supplement is easily absorbed by the body. The chelated form of magnesium is easy on the stomach and prevents GI distress.
Triple Calm Magnesium is made in the USA. Natural Rhythm uses an FDA-registered, cGMP facility that is Safe Quality Foods certified manufacturing its products. Every batch is also tested for quality and purity before distribution.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 capsules provides:
- Magnesium (Mg Taurate, Mg Glycinate, Mg Malate) – 150 mg
Users can purchase Triple Calm Magnesium as a bottle of 120 capsules. One bottle provides 60 servings that can last for 2 months. The capsules are made from plant cellulose and hence ideal for vegetarians.
The recommended dosage is 1-2 capsules a day with plenty of water to promote faster absorption. If desired, individuals can split the dose between mornings and evenings too.
Natural Rhythm uses only pure magnesium that is 100% GMO-free. It is also free from gluten. This supplement is tested for heavy metal toxicity which makes it beneficial for health.
The Pros:
- Three chelated forms of magnesium for good mental and physical health
- 2 month supply in one bottle
- Vegetarian capsules
- Free from heavy metal toxicity
Summary: Natural Rhythm Triple Calm Magnesium is a quality supplement with 3 chelated magnesium forms. Gluten-free and vegetarian, this product can lower stress and provide physical health benefits for overall well-being.
3. Best Gummies Anxiety Supplement – Olly Goodbye Stress
Gummies are not just for children! They are an easy alternative to pills and tablets which can help the elderly take supplements easily. They also work great for individuals who dislike taking capsules and prefer a pop-and-go option.
About Olly Goodbye Stress
Olly Goodbye Stress is a top-ranking supplement that can help anxiety and nervousness resulting from stressful moments. Enriched with 3 well-known ingredients, this product keeps you calm and relaxed at all times.
The beneficial combination of GABA and L-theanine works to lower anxious feelings and helps to relax the mind. The lemon balm extracts aid in enhancing mood and promotes mental alertness to work through life’s difficult situations.
Olly is a certified B Corporation based in the USA and manufactures its NSF-certified Goodbye Stress according to GMP standards. The ingredients are validated for quality to ensure safety to consumers.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 gummies consists of:
- Calories – 15
- Total Carbohydrates – 3 g
- Total Sugars including added sugars – 2 g
- GABA – 100 mg
- Lemon Balm Extract – 75 mg
- L-Theanine – 50 mg
Every container of Olly Goodbye Stress contains 42 gummies that can roll out 21 servings. A pack of 60 gummies is also another option. The gelatin-based gummies contain natural flavors and the color is a result of using natural juices.
Two gummies can be taken as dosage at any time of the day. They may be taken 30 minutes before and chewed properly before swallowing to experience desired effects.
Olly Goodbye Stress is made of premium quality ingredients for maximum benefits. The product has only natural flavors and contains no artificial colors. It is also free from gluten and can effectively support a stress-free life.
The Pros:
- Chewable gummies
- Combination of GABA, L-theanine, and lemon balm for stress relief
- NSF-certified ingredients
- Natural flavors and colors
Summary: Olly Goodbye Stress is an effective anxiety-relief supplement. The chewable gummy form makes it easy and the powerful ingredients naturally eases stress, aids in the relaxation of the mind, and elevates performance.
4. Best Anxiety Supplement With Ashwagandha – Nature’s Bounty Anxiety & Stress Relief
Ashwagandha, an efficient adaptogenic herb, has therapeutic properties that help control stress, anxiety, elevate mood, and promote healthy cognition.
KSM 66 Ashwagandha® is a patented product from lxoreal Biomed Inc. that contains full-spectrum root extracts of ashwagandha for maximizing various health benefits.
L-theanine, an amino acid, is an effective anxiolytic. It can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation naturally.
About Nature’s Bounty Anxiety & Stress Relief
Anxiety & Stress Relief is a popular supplement with the goodness of pure ashwagandha and l-theanine extracts. Designed to provide relief from occasional feelings of anxiousness, it lowers stress and promotes tranquility to face challenging situations with ease.
The tablets formulated with the patented KSM 66 Ashwagandha® are highly potent and contain only the root for maximum efficiency. The added L-theanine works in sync with ashwagandha to foster mental well-being.
Nature’s Bounty with its base in New York, USA, manufactures Anxiety & Stress Relief at facilities compliant with GMP standards. The ingredients are tested and the final product is again subject to lab tests to assure full safety and purity.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 tablets holds:
- Ashwagandha Extract KSM 66® (from root) – 600 mg
- L-theanine – 200 mg
Anxiety & Stress Relief can be bought as a bottle of 50 tablets to provide 25 servings. The tablets are unflavored and vegetarian.
The manufacturer recommends taking 2 tablets with meals for desired results. The product is recommended for healthy adults only. Pregnant women and children should avoid this supplement.
Nature’s Bounty Anxiety & Stress relief is made using global ingredients with the highest quality. It does not contain GMOs, artificial ingredients, added sugars, or preservatives making it a reliable product for anxiety relief.
The Pros:
- Combination of KSM 66 Ashwagandha® and L-theanine
- Vegetarian supplement
- No GMOs or preservatives
- No added sugars or artificial ingredients
Summary: Nature’s Bounty Anxiety & Stress Relief is a dietary supplement that can reduce stress naturally. With root extracts of patented KSM 66 Ashwagandha® and L-theanine, it lowers anxiety and promotes good mental wellness.
5. Best 5-HTP Tablets for Anxiety Support – Natrol 5_HTP
5-HTP (hydroxytryptophan) is made from l-tryptophan, an amino acid. It acts as the immediate precursor of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and other neurological processes. Fast-dissolving tablets of 5-HTP are produced from seeds of the plant Griffonia simplicifolia.
About Natrol 5-HTP
Natrol 5-HTP is a dietary supplement that can be used to promote a calm and relaxed mind to relieve anxiety. It also helps control appetite, induces weight loss, and ensures good sleep at night.
Made from Griffonia seeds, this supplement is non-addictive. 5-HTP aids in the natural synthesis of serotonin. Stimulation of the body’s serotonin levels results in a good mood and a positive outlook for better performance.
Natrol 5-HTP is a leading brand in the USA. Based in California, Natrol makes its 5-HTP in an NSF-certified manufacturing facility with a continuous testing process to ensure quality.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 tablet offers:
- 5 HTP ( 5-Hydroxytryptophan from Griffonia simplicifolia seeds) – 100 mg
Available as a container of 30 tablets, Natrol 5-HTP can provide 30 servings and last for 15-30 days depending on use. Unlike regular tablets, this supplement comes in a yummy mixed fruit flavor.
The suggested dosage is 1 tablet taken up to 2 times a day with food for visible benefits. The tablets are fast-dissolving and hence require no water.
Natrol 5-HTP is a clean supplement that is 100% drug-free and contains just one highly potent ingredient. Individuals allergic to soy and wheat need to be cautious as it contains both of them.
The Pros:
- Potent 100 mg of 5-HTP from a plant-based source
- Fast dissolving tablet that can be consumed without water
- Drug-free and non-addictive
- Made in an NSF-certified facility in the USA
Summary: Natrol 5-HTP is a potent supplement that is produced using Griffonia seeds. Fast-dissolving and non-habit forming, this product is effective in lowering anxiety to promote a calm and relaxed mind.
6. Best Vegan Liquid Capsules for Anxiety Relief: Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P.
Liquid capsules are an effective form for taking anxiety supplements. Liquid capsules disintegrate quickly for rapid absorption of contents. Vegan liquid capsules are even better as they contain no animal derivatives and are ideally suited for vegetarians or vegans.
About Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P
Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P. is a top-quality dietary supplement with research-backed herbs that provides proven relief from anxiety for adults in stressful situations.
The powerful formulation is non-drowsy and non-habit forming. Well-known herbs such as chamomile, holy basil, passionflower, skullcap, and lavender oil provide relaxation, lower stress, and promote a calm mind to handle tough situations in life.
Gaia Herbs is located in North Carolina, USA, and makes Calm A.S.A.P. in an OTCO Certified Organic manufacturing facility using organically grown herbs. All ingredients are lab-tested before manufacture, formulated, and packed in capsules using Liquid Phyto-Cap technology.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 3 capsules gives:
- Calories – 10
- Total Carbohydrate – 2 g
- Proprietary extract blend – 1440 mg
(Organic herbs (skullcap, chamomile, passionflower, vervain) and holy basil)
- English Lavender flower essential oil – 60 mg
A bottle of Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P. has 60 capsules that provide 20 servings. The liquid capsule made from plant hypromellose is vegan-friendly and dissolves in 10-12 minutes on consumption.
The supplement is recommended only for adults and the dosage is 3 capsules a day, when required, for potential benefits.
Gaia Herbs makes its Calm A.S.A.P. with non-GMO organic herbal extracts that equals 5,050 mg of dry herbs. The product is free from gluten, yeast, and other major allergens for maximized benefits and safe consumption.
The Pros:
- A powerful combination of organic herbal extracts
- Vegan-friendly capsules made from hypromellose
- Liquid Phyto-cap technology ensures faster disintegration of contents
- Free from gluten, yeast, and other allergens
Summary: Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P. is a quality supplement with multiple organic herbs and holy basil. Available as vegan liquid capsules, it promotes anxiety relief, relaxation, and a good mood to handle stressful situations in life.
Common Ingredients Found in Anxiety Supplements
GABA: or Gamma-aminobutyric acid is produced naturally in the human body. It acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and helps regulate brain functions. GABA is known to lower stress and anxiety levels effectively.
Studies show that oral supplementation of GABA regulates mood, lowers stress levels that can be enhanced by mental tasks, and builds immunity while providing anxiety relief. (4), (5)
Chamomile: A popular herb used from the time of Greek civilization, it is an effective relaxant that helps lower stress and boosts mental health. Studies have shown that apart from a demonstrated anxiolytic activity, it can also provide a significant antidepressant effect in humans (6).
Ashwagandha: A popular adaptogenic herb, its roots have been used widely in traditional ayurvedic preparations to treat many conditions such as anxiety, depression, and enhance cognitive functions in the brain.
One study indicates ashwagandha’s efficiency as an anxiolytic that can be used to combat feelings of stress, enhance memory, and induce proper sleep. (7).
L-theanine: A useful amino acid present naturally in green, black tea, and few mushrooms, l-theanine is known to possess therapeutic effects in treating anxiety and stress-related issues.
Studies show that intake of l-theanine can lower anxiety, promote good cognitive functions, and improve the quality of sleep in many people (8).
Holy Basil: Also known as Tulsi, this herb has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. A well-known adaptogen, studies prove that this herb has potential medicinal properties to combat different kinds of stress from ingestion of toxins, physical, and psychological stress (9).
Lemon Balm: A herb with a distinct lemony scent and flavor, is considered to be beneficial in treating anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Research indicates that a pilot trial of lemon balm leaf extracts in individuals with mild-to-moderate anxiety issues was effective in reducing anxiety manifestations and helped improve sleep (10).
Passion Flower: Considered as an exotic plant, the above-ground parts of the passionflower vine are used as medicine to treat primarily anxiety and insomnia. A study of nine clinical trials suggested that the passionflower produced a significant reduction in anxiety levels without any adverse effects (11).
Lavender Oil: An essential oil derived from the lavender flower, it is considered to possess potential calming effects to aid in stress relief and relaxation. Research indicates that oral use of lavender oil has the potential to deliver anxiolytic effects in patients suffering from anxiety-related issues (12).
Valerian: A root used in medicine for promoting sleep, valerian has shown to reflect positive changes in brain functioning owing to the anxiolytic effects, in patients suffering from psychological stress (13).
5-HTP: Produced from tryptophan, an amino acid, L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is vital for the production of serotonin that is responsible for modulation of mood, memory, cognition, etc. and melatonin which regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
5-HTP is made from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia and used in supplements that support anxiety and cognition. Studies indicate that 5-HTP supplementation can be effective in treating many medical conditions such as depression, insomnia, etc (14).
Magnesium: The 4th most abundant mineral responsible for more than 300 chemical reactions and maintaining overall health, deficiency of this essential mineral is known to cause stress and anxiety-related issues. Supplementation may help restore magnesium levels to prevent physical, emotional stress, and many neurological disorders. (15), (16).
Dosage for Anxiety Supplements
Dietary anxiety supplements can differ in form as well as ingredients. Natural supplements are usually a combination of herbs, amino acids, minerals, or just one potent ingredient such as magnesium or 5-HTP.
Supplementation of magnesium is generally believed to be beneficial but in the right quantities. Intake of magnesium is usually recommended based on body weight and the research establishes it at 4-6 g/ per kg/ per day as acceptable doses (17).
Ingredients even if natural must be suitable for individuals and work better when recommended by a practitioner. A practitioner can assess the right dosage for these ingredients and help avoid potential side effects that may arise from using such supplements.
Summary: The dosage of anxiety supplements is based on the combination or type of ingredient. It can vary from one supplement to another. A practitioner can help decide the suitability and effective dosage to prevent any side effects.
Risks and Side Effects of Anxiety Supplements
Anxiety supplements contain ingredients that are generally deemed safe. But one must be aware that even natural ingredients may not suit everyone or excess consumption of certain nutrients can pose risks for health.
Magnesium, though a vital mineral, if consumed in excess via supplements can have unpleasant implications on health and hence should be consumed with caution (18).
5-HTP is not recommended for children with Down’s Syndrome. Consumption of 5-HTP can cause nausea or diarrhea and overdose can lead to a condition called Serotonin Syndrome (19).
Natural herbs can also cause mild side effects such as nausea, dizziness, stomach discomfort, etc. in some individuals. Certain herbs also have the potential to interact with prescribed medications, anticoagulants, or hormones (20).
People taking medications for metabolic conditions, neurological disorders, or undergoing treatment for kidney issues, cancer, hormone therapies should check with a practitioner before using any anxiety supplement to avoid adverse effects.
Summary: Natural herbs or vital nutrients found in anxiety supplements can create mild to severe side effects in certain individuals. Seeking a practitioner’s advice before using such supplements can prevent adverse reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are herbal supplements effective in treating anxiety?
Herbal supplements are plant-based and can minimize the use of chemical drug dependency to treat some anxiety issues. Many herbs such as passionflower, chamomile, ashwagandha, etc. have shown promise in treating anxiety and stress effectively. Supplements taken along with apt lifestyle changes that include good sleep, healthy food, exercise, and hobbies could help relieve stress and anxiety effectively.
Can anxiety supplements be taken with prescribed medications?
Anxiety supplements can be formulated with one or many ingredients consisting of nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins, minerals, or herbal ingredients. The body requires nutrients and the chances of vital nutrients interacting with medication are less. But herbal ingredients are known to have strong interactions with certain medications especially anticoagulants, antidepressants, etc.
Individuals can be prescribed drugs for sleep and anxiety relief. Major disorders such as depression, mania, etc. are mostly treated only with prescription drugs. Hence, one should check with a practitioner regarding using anxiety supplements in conjunction with medications for faster relief.
How can I choose the best anxiety supplement?
Choosing an anxiety supplement can be tough and users should consider several factors before buying one. The ingredients, potency, form can all vary. Research regarding herb, strength, combinations can help derive good benefits.
Looking for allergy information, precautions listed on the label, and daily dose are as important as looking for use of non-GMO ingredients and third-party validations that assure quality and safety.
The Final Note
Stress is a common response of the body when one deals with tough situations. Anxiety is triggered by stress. It is natural and healthy to an extent that it keeps the mind and body alert to enable individuals to portray their best.
Continuous anxiety can result in problems and can interfere with daily life. Supplements of certain herbs or essential minerals can help individuals deal better with anxiety. They can help lower stress, promote relaxation, and maintain an alert mind to handle life’s situations easily.
Supplements are available online in forms such as gummies, capsules, tablets, etc. One can check with a practitioner for the right dosage and suitability to avoid side effects and achieve overall mental wellness.