From money to family to work, we all deal with anxiety from time to time. However, for some people these worries aren't temporary, and they can get worse over time. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), over 30 percent of adults in the U.S. will experience an anxiety disorder. However, research has shown that tweaks to our diet, including adding certain supplements, may help alleviate some of the symptoms of anxiety.
In this review we will break down some of the best supplements for anxiety. When you add these supplements to your daily routine you may be better equipped to handle your anxiety. It should be noted that these supplements aren't to take the place of prescribed medicine, and most of them don't address the root cause of anxiety, but rather, they can potentially alleviate some of the symptoms. Additionally, supplements may cause side effects, some that are potentially life-threatening, and you'll always want to make sure that the supplements that you choose won't interact with any medications that you're taking. If you have any questions about supplements, you should always speak to your doctor.
Why Trust Us?
The health and safety of ACTIVE's readers is of the utmost importance to us. To ensure your well-being when consuming dietary supplements, the ACTIVE.com editorial team prioritizes products that are independently tested by a third party. We've consulted with a team of nutritionists and dieticians to ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. This helps us create the most accurate, authentic review content for our readers.
The Best Supplements for Anxiety - Our Top Picks
By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
- Organic India Ashwagandha Herbal Supplement
- Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal Vitamin C
- GNC Herbal Plus® Valerian Root Extract
- Nordic Naturals ProOmega 2000-D
- Swanson Magnesium Lactate
Organic India Ashwagandha Herbal Supplement
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Dosage: 2 capsules (800mg)
- Type: Capsules
- Ingredients: Organic Ashwagandha Root, Organic Vegetable Pullulan Capsules
- Certifications: USDA-certified organic
Here ye! Here ye! According to a study found in the National Library of Medicine, ashwagandha is considered a royal herb because of its many positive effects on the body. As an adaptogen, ashwagandha can help reduce symptoms of stress by helping you adapt to changes when you are faced with stress and anxiety. However, Psychotherapy Research reports that ashwagandha can interact with certain medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid issues. Additionally, ashwagandha can negatively impact sedatives and immunosuppressants, and there have been reports of some liver damage.
If you have been cleared to take ashwagandha, check out Organic India Ashwagandha Herbal Supplement. It is certified USDA organic and approved by ConsumerLab. This supplement comes in a capsule form that contains the ground-up root and herb of ashwagandha. It is organic, vegetarian-friendly, and gluten-free.
What We Like
- Halal
- USDA-certified organic
- ConsumerLab approved
What We Don't Like
- Not approved by FDA
- May interact with certain medications
BUY: Organic India Ashwagandha
Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal Vitamin C
SPECS
- Price: $$$
- Dosage: 1,000mg per tsp
- Type: Liquid
- Ingredients: Vitamin C, Phospholipids, others
- Certifications: N/A
Vitamin C, according to a study found in the National Library of Health, may help regulate stress-related diseases and improve your mood. A study showed that vitamin C reduced anxiety levels when compared to a placebo.
Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal Vitamin C comes in liquid form which helps you absorb it quickly. This is also a good choice for people who don't like to swallow pills or don't like the chalkiness of many powder supplements. Each dose of this supplement has 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C.
What We Like
- Effective high-level dosage
- Good for those with stomach problems
- Gluten-free
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- No certifications
BUY: Quicksilver Scientific Liposomal Vitamin C
GNC Herbal Plus Valerian Root Extract
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1 capsule (500mg)
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Valerian root extract, Vegetable Cellulose Capsule
- Certifications: ConsumerLab
For centuries, valerian root has been used to promote sleep. Lack of sleep can cause anxiety. The active ingredients in GNC Herbal Plus Valerian Root Extract can have a sedative effect, and it may increase the amount of GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that provides calming effects in our body.
This supplement has been tested by ConsumerLab which found that the amount of valerenic acid that was listed on the label matched what was contained in the capsules. Given its sedative properties, you should probably take this close to bedtime and avoid operating heavy machinery.
What We Like
- Promotes restful sleep
- Tolerated well
- ConsumerLab tested
What We Don't Like
- May be difficult to swallow
- Not safe to take with sedatives and other medications
BUY: GNC Herbal Plus Valerian Root Extract
Nordic Naturals ProOmega 2000-D
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 2,000mg
- Type: Softgels
- Ingredients: Purified deep sea fish oil, natural lemon flavor, d-alpha tocopherol, vitamin D3, rosemary extract
- Certifications: Non-GMO certified
A study by Harvard Medical School researchers reported the benefits of high doses of omega-3 in people with anxiety. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are mainly derived from fish oil, have powerful anti-inflammatory effects which can have positive effects on the body, including reducing symptoms of anxiety.
If you're looking for high-quality omega-3 supplements, check out Nordic Naturals ProOmega 2000-D. These softgel supplements provide a powerful dose of omega-3s per serving.
What We Like
- Third-party tested
- No fishy aftertaste
- Lemon flavor
What We Don't Like
- Some complaints of pills clumping together
- Large pills
BUY: Nordic Naturals ProOmega 2000-D
Swanson Magnesium Lactate
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1 capsule (84mg)
- Type: Capsule
- Ingredients: Magnesium (from magnesium lactate), gelatin, L-leucine
- Certifications: ConsumerLab
Magnesium plays an important role in the nervous system, and it helps regulate gut health. Our guts produce and regulate neurotransmitters, and this is why magnesium may help reduce anxiety supplements.
Swansons Magnesium Lactate is an excellent choice because it uses the form of magnesium that is widely thought to help reduce some of the symptoms of anxiety. Additionally, it is lactose-free and easy on your stomach.
What We Like
- Stomach-friendly
- Lactose-free
- Third-party testing
- Gluten-free
What We Don't Like
- May interact with some medications
- Not organic or vegan
- Low dosage
BUY: Swanson Magnesium Lactate
How to Choose the Best Supplements for Anxiety
Anxiety is a pervasive mental health condition in our society. While the root cause should always be addressed by a medical professional, there are several factors that you can consider to help you choose the best supplements for anxiety.
Certifications
Like all other supplements, the ones that are for treating the symptoms of anxiety are not regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, you will want to see if they have been certified or tested by a third party. These tests can help you determine if the information presented by the manufacturer is correct and accurate.
Ingredients
Another way to ensure that you're getting the best supplements for anxiety is to look for those that are transparent about where the supplements are sourced. Clearly showing where the ingredients are sourced likely indicates that the manufacturer is transparent about their supplements purity. Additionally, less than reputable supplements may include ingredients such as lead, plastic, and even arsenic. Therefore, look for supplements from trusted sources that are transparent about their ingredients.
Type
Anxiety supplements come in several different forms. The kinds that you will see most often are powders that are mixed with water (or other liquid) and pill forms. Once you have decided what type of anxiety supplement you prefer, you can look for that form. Choosing the type that most appeals to you will help you take it on a more regular basis.
How We Rate Supplements
Price/affordability scale of $-$$$
Prices depend on a number of factors, and tend to fluctuate over time, so we've kept our affordability rating scale simple so you can easily see how products compare:
$ = under $1 per serving
$$ = $1-2 per serving
$$$ = over $2 per serving
FAQs About Supplements for Anxiety
What is the most effective supplement for anxiety?
There are several supplements that are thought to be effective in helping reduce some of the symptoms that arise from anxiety. These include: magnesium, ashwagandha, lavender, vitamin D, chamomile, L-theanine, and others.
How can I reduce my anxiety naturally?
While there are supplements such as ashwagandha, vitamin D, and chamomile that may help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, changes to lifestyle and diet may also help. If your anxiety symptoms persist, you should always consult a medical professional.
Does ashwagandha help with anxiety?
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that may have many positive effects on the human mind and body. It helps with inflammation and can help regulate the receptor that helps regulate anxiety.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.