Skip to content
herbs and supplements to help with anxiety

In times of acute stress, certain remedies can offer additional relief. “For situational stress, I look to remedies that tamp down stress hormones and support the adrenals,” says integrative psychiatrist Henry Emmons, MD, author of The Chemistry of Joy and The Chemistry of Calm.

Here are some good options:

  • Kava root contains kavalactones, compounds that influence a range of neurobiological activities related to anxiety, including modulating GABA ­receptors.
  • Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can reduce cortisol levels and improve sleep.
  • L-theanine is an amino acid that can settle some physiological responses to stress, such as elevated heart rate. (For more herbal anxiety remedies, see “What Are the 5 Best Herbs for Anxiety?“.)

For chronic anxiety, it’s key to boost baseline brain health with the supplements addressed throughout this article.

Learn More

Explore our curated collection of mental health articles to find more information that can assist you in supporting your overall well-being.

This was excerpted from “8 Key Supplements to Boost Your Mental Health — Naturally” which was published in Experience Life.

Alexandra Smith headshot
Alexandra Smith, MA, LPCC

Alexandra Smith, MA, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor in Minneapolis and an Experience Life contributing editor.

Thoughts to share?

This Post Has One Comment

  1. I would add the supplement GABA. It can help calm the brain and also is shown to be a non- weight gainer and help in budling lean muscle mass. Best to always consent with physician and not use if pregnant or breast feeding, Lynne Healey, LMHC, QS, CAP. MPS

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More From Life Time

LTH Glow Omega-3 Fish Oil

The Art of Nutritional Science

It’s the nutritional products you love, now with a whole new look. The most powerful ingredients and potent formulas, designed by our top dietitians and nutritionists.

Shop LTH Supplements

ADVERTISEMENT

More Like This

a young woman smiles with headphones on

22 Ways to Lighten Your Mood

By Christine Schrum

Dishes are piling up, bills are overdue, and the phone’s pinging — we’ve all felt the weight of everyday overwhelm. Try these small, intentional actions to improve your mental well-being.

a woman fills an eye dropped with an adaptogen

3 Adaptogenic Plants to Help Relieve Stress

By Henry Emmons, MD

How rhodiola, eleuthero, and holy basil can help you alleviate the effects of stressful situations.

Back To Top