Best Supplements for Stress and Anxiety in Australia
Reviewed by Yurie Sato, BHSc (Naturopathy), Naturopath · Last reviewed 27 October 2026 · How we review
Ashwagandha, saffron, holy basil, L-theanine, magnesium or B vitamins? Compare nine popular supplements for stress and anxiety in Australia: who each ingredient was tested in, study doses against label doses, cost per day and customer reviews. Plus how to build a simple daily routine and when to see your GP.
- Health advice
- 10 min read
- Oct 29, 2026
Reviewed on 27 October 2026 · Next review: October 2027.
The best supplements for stress and anxiety depend on what's behind how you feel. That could be a demanding stretch at work, poor sleep, a diet low in magnesium or B vitamins, or a mind that won't switch off. Supplements don't treat anxiety disorders. If anxiety is affecting your everyday life, talk to your GP [1].
Ashwagandha has the most research in stressed adults. Across 12 trials, it lowered stress and anxiety scores more than a placebo (a dummy pill), though the certainty of that evidence is low [2]. Valerian is popular, but a Cochrane review found just one small trial in anxiety, too few to draw any conclusions [3]. Who an ingredient was tested in, and at what dose, matters as much as the result.
Our top pick is Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day, which gives you 600 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha (a standardised root extract) in one tablet a day, at about 39 cents a day on its current sale price. It helps relieve symptoms of stress and mild anxiety and supports a healthy stress response.
With more than 100 products in our Stress Relief Vitamins range, we've compared nine options. We looked at the research behind each ingredient, who it was tested in, dose against the studies, regulatory status, cost per day and what our customers say, so you can choose with confidence.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.
Stress and Anxiety: What's the Difference?
Stress is a common and normal response to challenging or new situations [4]. It can leave you feeling overwhelmed or on edge, sleeping badly, or carrying tension in your muscles. Feeling anxious from time to time is normal too. Anxiety becomes a concern when it's ongoing and gets in the way of daily life, and anxiety disorders affect 1 in 4 Australians at some stage [1].
The basics come first. Daily exercise helps reduce stress, and so does making time to relax each day with slow breathing, mindfulness or yoga [4]. Supplements sit on top of those habits, not in place of them.
If you've tried relaxation techniques and talked to someone you trust but still feel overwhelmed, see your doctor or a mental health professional [4].
Can Supplements Help With Stress and Anxiety?
Natural stress relief supplements can support a healthy stress response, and some listed medicines are made to relieve symptoms of stress or mild anxiety. They don't treat anxiety disorders, depression or panic attacks, which need care from your GP. Most people come to us with one of a handful of goals, and each ingredient on our list fits one of them.
For more on stress, sleep and mood, visit our Stress and Anxiety Support hub.
Best Supplements for Anxiety and Stress: Evidence Scorecard
Many lists of the best natural supplements for anxiety rank ingredients without saying who they were tested in. Most trials here were in adults under everyday stress, not people with an anxiety disorder, and many were small.
| Ingredient | Tested In | What the Trials Found | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashwagandha | 64 adults with chronic stress [5]; 12 trials with 1,002 adults aged 25 to 48 [2] | Lower stress scores and blood cortisol (a stress hormone) than a placebo after 60 days [5]; lower stress and anxiety scores across trials, from low-certainty evidence [2] | Most studied for stress |
| Saffron (affron extract) | 128 adults with low mood [6]; 23 trials in people with and without a diagnosis [7] | Better mood scores than a placebo at 28 mg a day, but not at 22 mg [6]; a large effect on anxiety symptoms across trials, with signs that positive studies were more likely to be published [7] | Promising |
| Holy basil | 100 adults experiencing stress [8]; 150 adults with general stress [9] | A bigger drop in perceived stress than a placebo from week 6, with no difference in overall mood [8]; fewer stress symptoms than a placebo over 6 weeks [9]; three of the authors worked for Natural Remedies, which makes OciBest | Early, promising |
| L-theanine | 30 healthy adults [10]; 9 trials [11] | Anxiety and sleep scores fell over 4 weeks, but only some sleep measures beat the placebo [10]; 200 to 400 mg a day may help people in stressful conditions [11] | Modest |
| B vitamins | 16 trials in healthy and at-risk adults [12]; 60 adults with work stress [13] | A small benefit for stress, but no effect on anxiety [12]; less personal strain after 3 months, with no change in anxiety [13] | Helps stress, not anxiety |
| Magnesium | 18 studies in people prone to anxiety [14]; 264 stressed adults with low blood magnesium [15] | A possible benefit for anxiety, from poor-quality evidence [14]; stress scores fell by more than 40% over 8 weeks, in a trial with no placebo group [15] | Most useful if low |
| Lemon balm | 18 healthy adults, single doses [16] | Calmer self-ratings during a lab stress test after 600 mg [16] | Early |
| Rhodiola | 60 adults with stress-related fatigue [17] | Better fatigue and some attention scores than a placebo after 28 days [17] | Early, for fatigue |
| Omega-3 fish oil | 19 trials with 2,240 people [18] | Fewer anxiety symptoms overall, mainly in people with a diagnosed condition and at 2,000 mg a day or more [18]; one trial was later retracted, and the authors posted a reanalysis without it [19] | Uncertain |
| Passionflower | 2 trials in people with anxiety disorders [20] | Too few trials to draw conclusions [20] | Not enough evidence |
| Valerian | 36 people with generalised anxiety disorder [3] | No difference from a placebo in one small trial [3] | Not supported |
| GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid, a chemical messenger in the brain) | 14 placebo-controlled studies [21] | Limited evidence for stress and very limited evidence for sleep [21] | Limited |
"Our verdict" summarises the trials cited for each ingredient. It covers research on the ingredient and makes no claim about any product.
Study Dose vs What's in Our Products
It's essential to choose the right product at the right dose. Compare the daily amount used in the research with what each product we stock gives you at its label dose.
| Ingredient | Daily Dose in the Studies | Our Product | Label Daily Dose | How It Compares |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ashwagandha (KSM-66) | 600 mg for 60 days in adults with chronic stress [5]; 250 or 600 mg for 8 weeks in stressed adults [22] | Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day | 600 mg KSM-66 (1 tablet) | Matches the higher dose studied |
| Ashwagandha (KSM-66) | As above | Nutrivital Stress And Anxiety | 600 mg KSM-66 (2 tablets) | Matches the higher dose studied |
| Ashwagandha (KSM-66) | As above | Fusion Stress And Anxiety | 750 mg KSM-66 (4 tablets) | A little above the 600 mg studied |
| Saffron (affron) | 28 mg for 4 weeks in adults with low mood [6] | Carusos Saffron Two A Day | 27 mg affron (2 tablets) | Close to the 28 mg studied in adults with low mood |
| Holy basil (Holixer) | 250 mg for 8 weeks in adults experiencing stress [8] | Herbs of Gold Activated B Stress | 250 mg Holixer (1 tablet) | Matches |
| Holy basil (OciBest) | 1,200 mg for 6 weeks in adults with general stress [9] | Fusion Stress And Anxiety | 1,200 mg OciBest (4 tablets) | Matches |
| L-theanine | 200 mg for 4 weeks in healthy adults [10] | Herbs Of Gold L-Theanine 200mg | 200 mg (1 capsule) | Matches |
| Magnesium | 300 mg for 8 weeks in stressed adults with low blood magnesium [15] | Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte | 220 to 440 mg (1 to 2 tablets) | One tablet (220 mg) is below the 300 mg studied; two (440 mg) go over the 350 mg upper limit for supplements [23] |
| Lemon balm | 600 mg of a standardised extract as a single dose [16] | JSHealth Mild Anxiety + Stress Formula | About 286 mg per tablet, twice a day | About half the 600 mg single dose tested, and a different extract |
| B vitamins | At least 3 B vitamins daily for 4 weeks or more [12] | Natures Way Mega B Executive Stress | All eight B vitamins (1 tablet) | A full B complex, like the formulas reviewed |
Study doses are the daily amounts given in the trials cited, not recommendations. Label doses are the adult directions listed on mrvitamins.com.au on 27 October 2026. Don't take more than the label dose unless your health professional advises it.
What Makes a Good Stress Relief Supplement?
Stress relief supplements vary more than most people realise. Six things separate a well-made supplement in our Stress Relief Vitamins range from an average one.
- No promise to treat anxiety. Supplements don't treat anxiety disorders, so a product that claims to is a red flag.
- A named, standardised extract. Look for an extract you can check, such as KSM-66 ashwagandha, affron saffron or Holixer holy basil, with the amount per serve on the label.
- A dose close to the research. Compare the label dose with the trials, and avoid proprietary blends that hide how much of each ingredient you get.
- Clear Australian regulatory status. Listed medicines carry an AUST L number you can check on the TGA's ARTG register (the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods), and they can only use wording from the TGA's list of permitted indications, such as "relieves symptoms of stress".
- Made for adults. Most products here are for adults. Children and teens need advice from their GP first.
- Works with your medicines. If you take antidepressants, anxiety medicines, sedatives or any prescription medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding a supplement.
Every product on our list was assessed against these criteria: dose, regulation, research and label content.
Comparing the Best Supplements for Stress and Anxiety in Australia
1. Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day (Top Pick)
Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day is our top pick for adults who want one named ashwagandha extract in a single daily tablet, at the lowest cost per day of the ashwagandha products on our list. Each tablet contains 600 mg of KSM-66, a branded ashwagandha root extract made from 7.5 g of dried root and standardised to 30 mg of withanolides (the herb's active compounds).
Adults take 1 tablet daily with food. A 50-tablet pack was $19.50 on sale on 27 October 2026, which works out at about 39 cents a day.
It helps relieve symptoms of stress and mild anxiety and supports a healthy stress response. It also relieves sleeplessness and improves sleep quality.
Each tablet contains lactose. Take it at least 2 hours away from medicines, and talk to your health professional before using it with anti-anxiety, antidepressant or sedative medicines. It's not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains ashwagandha. Stop taking it and see your doctor straight away if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, stomach pain or loss of appetite, and avoid it if you have or have had liver problems [24]. Browse more in our Ashwagandha Supplements range.
Key details: 50 tablets | 600 mg KSM-66 ashwagandha per tablet | 1 tablet daily with food | 50-day supply | Contains lactose | AUST L 406701
2. Nutrivital Stress And Anxiety
Nutrivital Stress And Anxiety suits you if you'd like the same 600 mg of KSM-66 a day with four supporting herbs in the same tablet. Each tablet contains 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha root extract, made from 3.75 g of dried root, with Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, lemon balm and holy basil extracts.
Adults take 2 tablets daily with water, which gives you 600 mg of KSM-66 a day. A 60-tablet pack lasts a month at about $1.87 a day.
It's made to support a healthy stress response and maintain energy levels, and it's traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve symptoms of stress and sleeplessness. Each tablet contains lactose.
It contains ashwagandha. Stop taking it and see your doctor straight away if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, stomach pain or loss of appetite, and avoid it if you have or have had liver problems [24]. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding or take any medicines, check with your health professional before you start.
"This is an amazing product."
Key details: 60 tablets | 300 mg KSM-66 ashwagandha with Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, lemon balm and holy basil per tablet | 2 tablets daily | 30-day supply | Contains lactose | AUST L 333770
3. Carusos Saffron Two A Day
If you'd rather try a herb other than ashwagandha, saffron is the one to look at. Each Carusos tablet contains 13.5 mg of affron, a standardised saffron extract made from at least 45 mg of dried saffron stigma (the threads). Adults take 1 tablet twice a day with food, which gives 27 mg a day.
The affron extract has been studied in Australian adults. In 128 healthy adults with low mood, 28 mg a day for 4 weeks lowered negative mood scores more than a placebo, and their stress and anxiety symptoms fell too. A lower 22 mg dose had no effect [6]. Pharmactive, which makes affron, funded the trial.
It helps relieve symptoms of mild anxiety, reduce nervous tension and support emotional and mood balance. Take it at least 2 hours away from medicines. It isn't for children under 12, and it's not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
"I really like this product"
Key details: 60 tablets | 13.5 mg affron saffron extract per tablet | 1 tablet twice daily with food | 30-day supply | AUST L 296835
4. Herbs of Gold Activated B Stress
Activated B Stress puts B vitamins and a researched herb in one tablet a day. Each tablet gives you 250 mg of Holixer, a standardised holy basil (tulsi) extract. It also has activated forms of vitamins B2, B6, B12 and folate (as Quatrefolic), plus B1, B3, B5, biotin and 250 mg of vitamin C. Adults take 1 tablet daily with food.
One tablet gives you the same 250 mg a day of Holixer tested in adults experiencing stress [8].
It contains vitamin B6, so stop taking it and see your healthcare practitioner if you notice tingling, burning or numbness. The 60-tablet pack works out at about 67 cents a day.
"Am happy with this product"
Key details: 30 or 60 tablets | 250 mg Holixer holy basil with activated B vitamins and 250 mg vitamin C per tablet | 1 tablet daily with food | Contains vitamin B6 | Listed medicine
5. Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte
Magnesium Forte is the most reviewed product on our list. Each tablet provides 220 mg of magnesium from four forms (amino acid chelate, citrate, glycinate and orotate), and adults take 1 tablet once or twice daily with food.
In 264 stressed adults with low blood magnesium, 300 mg a day for 8 weeks cut stress scores by more than 40%, with or without vitamin B6 [15]. The trial had no placebo group, and Sanofi, which makes Magne B6, funded it. Magnesium makes most sense if your intake is low.
It supports a healthy stress response and nervous system function. The upper limit for magnesium from supplements is 350 mg a day for adults [23]. One tablet sits under it; check with your health professional before taking two. The 120-tablet pack costs about 32 cents a tablet. Browse more in our Magnesium Tablets & Supplements range.
"I find the Magnesium Forte completely stops my night time leg cramps."
"This is the best quality magnesium that I've ever taken."
"These tablets are longish, but easy for me to swallow due to the smooth coating."
"Great brand, Herbs of Gold, have been buying it for at least a decade. Excellent product and prices"
Key details: 60 or 120 tablets | 220 mg magnesium per tablet from four forms | 1 tablet once or twice daily with food | AUST L 465031
6. Herbs Of Gold L-Theanine 200mg
L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea, and it's the simplest product on our list: one capsule, one ingredient, no caffeine. Each capsule contains 200 mg of AlphaWave, a branded form of L-theanine, taken once a day with food, at about 75 cents a day.
It calms the mind, aids mind relaxation and relieves symptoms of stress. It's for adults only and isn't recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Browse more in our L-Theanine Supplements range.
"Helps to clear the brain"
"Goes perfectly with Magnesium"
Key details: 30 capsules | 200 mg L-theanine (AlphaWave) per capsule | 1 capsule daily with food | Adults only | AUST L 451630
7. Fusion Stress And Anxiety
Every review of Fusion Stress And Anxiety that we counted gives it five stars. It contains KSM-66 ashwagandha and OciBest holy basil with four traditional herbs: polygala, citrus peel, magnolia bark and poria mushroom. Each tablet has 187.5 mg of KSM-66 and 300 mg of OciBest, and adults take 2 tablets twice a day with food, which gives 750 mg of KSM-66 and 1,200 mg of OciBest a day.
Four tablets give you 1,200 mg of OciBest, the amount tested in adults with symptoms of general stress [9].
It contains lactose and galactose. Don't use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains ashwagandha. Stop taking it and see your doctor straight away if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, stomach pain or loss of appetite, and avoid it if you have or have had liver problems [24]. The 120-tablet pack lasts a month at about $2.13 a day.
"Has made a big difference to coping with stressful times."
"I love that the 120 tablets are alway[s] such a good price!"
"I am finding it helpful at present"
Key details: 60 or 120 tablets | 187.5 mg KSM-66 ashwagandha and 300 mg OciBest holy basil per tablet, with four other herbs | 2 tablets twice daily with food | Contains lactose | Listed medicine
8. JSHealth Mild Anxiety + Stress Formula
JSHealth Mild Anxiety + Stress Formula suits you if you'd like a mix of traditional herbs with a few nutrients. Lemon balm leads, at 285.72 mg of extract (from 1 g of dried leaf) per tablet. Each tablet also has passionflower, chamomile, rehmannia and a smaller amount of ashwagandha (75 mg of extract), with 25 mg of magnesium, vitamin B5, vitamin C, choline and inositol. Adults take 1 tablet twice a day after food.
Each tablet gives about 286 mg of a different lemon balm extract, about half the 600 mg single dose tested in healthy adults [16].
It contains sulfites. Don't use it if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or likely to become pregnant, and if you take antidepressant or anti-anxiety medicines, check with your doctor before use. It contains ashwagandha. Stop taking it and see your doctor straight away if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, stomach pain or loss of appetite, and avoid it if you have or have had liver problems [24]. A 60-tablet pack lasts a month at about $1.43 a day.
"I purchased JS stress and anxiety a week ago and could notice a positive difference"
"I bought this product every [6 months] for my parents. They really like this product"
"Good product"
Key details: 60 tablets | Lemon balm, passionflower, chamomile, rehmannia and ashwagandha with magnesium, B5, C, choline and inositol | 1 tablet twice daily after food | Contains sulfites | Listed medicine
9. Natures Way Mega B Executive Stress
At about 10 cents a day, Mega B Executive Stress is the lowest-cost product on our list, and a 200-tablet bottle lasts more than 6 months. Each tablet is a full B complex: 40.5 mg of thiamine (B1), 10 mg of riboflavin (B2), 100 mg of nicotinamide (B3), 45.8 mg of pantothenic acid (B5) and 9 mg of B6. It also has biotin, 150 mcg of folic acid and 150 mcg of B12 in two forms, with choline and inositol. Adults take 1 tablet daily with food.
A review of 16 trials found that B vitamins helped stress in healthy and at-risk people, but had no effect on anxiety [12]. Bayer HealthCare partly funded it. In 60 adults with work stress, a high-dose B complex taken for 3 months lowered personal strain and reduced confusion and dejected mood ratings, with no change in anxiety [13].
It helps relieve symptoms of stress, supports a healthy stress response and helps maintain energy levels. Vitamins can only help if your dietary vitamin intake is inadequate. Published allergen information for this product differs on soy, so check the pack if you avoid soy. See more options in our Vitamin B Complex Supplements range.
Key details: 200 tablets | Full B complex with choline and inositol | 1 tablet daily with food | 200-day supply | AUST L 395452
Best Supplements for Stress and Anxiety in Australia (2026 Comparison)
| Product | Format | Key Ingredients | Daily Serve | TGA Status | Approx. Cost per Day | Customer Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day | Tablet | KSM-66 ashwagandha, 600 mg per tablet | 1 tablet | AUST L 406701 | ~$0.39 | No reviews yet | 600 mg of KSM-66 a day, the dose tested in adults with chronic stress |
| Nutrivital Stress And Anxiety | Tablet | KSM-66 ashwagandha 300 mg with Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, lemon balm and holy basil per tablet | 2 tablets | AUST L 333770 | ~$1.87 | 5.0 (1 review) | KSM-66 with four supporting herbs |
| Carusos Saffron Two A Day | Tablet | affron saffron extract, 13.5 mg per tablet | 2 tablets | AUST L 296835 | ~$1.07 | 4.5 (2 reviews) | A standardised saffron extract, 27 mg a day |
| Herbs of Gold Activated B Stress | Tablet | Holixer holy basil 250 mg with activated B vitamins and vitamin C | 1 tablet | Listed medicine | ~$0.67 | 5.0 (1 review) | B vitamins and a stress herb in one tablet |
| Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte | Tablet | Magnesium 220 mg per tablet, four forms | 1 to 2 tablets | AUST L 465031 | ~$0.32 to $0.63 | 4.9 (21 reviews) | A low magnesium intake |
| Herbs Of Gold L-Theanine 200mg | Capsule | L-theanine (AlphaWave), 200 mg | 1 capsule | AUST L 451630 | ~$0.75 | 5.0 (2 reviews) | A one-a-day, caffeine-free capsule |
| Fusion Stress And Anxiety | Tablet | KSM-66 ashwagandha 187.5 mg and OciBest holy basil 300 mg per tablet, plus four herbs | 4 tablets | Listed medicine | ~$2.13 | 5.0 (12 reviews) | Two researched extracts in one formula |
| JSHealth Mild Anxiety + Stress Formula | Tablet | Lemon balm, passionflower, chamomile, rehmannia and ashwagandha with nutrients | 2 tablets | Listed medicine | ~$1.43 | 4.3 (3 reviews) | A blend of traditional calming herbs |
| Natures Way Mega B Executive Stress | Tablet | Full B complex with choline and inositol | 1 tablet | AUST L 395452 | ~$0.10 | No reviews yet | A low-cost daily B complex |
Prices are Mr Vitamins prices on 27 October 2026 and may change; the Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day price is a sale price on that date. Cost per day is calculated at the label dose from the largest pack sold. Ratings count only reviews of each product on mrvitamins.com.au on the same date.
If you take antidepressants, anxiety medicines, sedatives or any other prescription medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding a supplement. Take Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day and Carusos Saffron Two A Day at least 2 hours away from medicines. Talk to your health professional before using Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day with anti-anxiety, antidepressant or sedative medicines, and check with your doctor before taking JSHealth Mild Anxiety + Stress Formula with antidepressant or anti-anxiety medicines. St John's wort can weaken many medicines, including the contraceptive pill and some antidepressants, and taking it with certain antidepressants can cause serious side effects [25]. Keep magnesium from all your supplements under 350 mg a day [23], and avoid ashwagandha if you have or have had liver problems [24].
Build a Simple Daily Routine
A routine is easiest to keep when it's simple, so start small. Pick one or two products that match your goal, take them at the same time each day, and give them at least 4 to 8 weeks before you judge them.
- Morning: take one Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day tablet and one Herbs of Gold Activated B Stress tablet with breakfast. Together they cost about $1.06 a day.
- Evening: add one Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte tablet with dinner if your magnesium intake is low. That brings the total to about $1.38 a day, or around $41 a month.
- Prefer a blend or a different herb? Swap Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day for 2 Nutrivital Stress And Anxiety tablets (about $1.87 a day), or for Carusos Saffron Two A Day, one tablet with breakfast and one with dinner (about $1.07 a day).
To wind down in the evening, you could also light the Live More You D-Stress Candle (D-Stress), a soy wax candle scented with orange, lavender and cedarwood essential oils, with a 30-hour burn time.
Not sure which combination suits you? Book 10 minutes with a qualified naturopath online, free, for help choosing.
Supplements for Stress and Anxiety by Situation
Stress shows up differently for different people. Match your situation to the research, then explore our in-depth guides.
Stress and Sleep
Stress and poor sleep often go together. In stressed adults, KSM-66 ashwagandha improved sleep quality ratings over 8 weeks compared with a placebo [22]. Ixoreal Biomed, which makes KSM-66, supplied the extract. Holixer holy basil improved sleep questionnaire scores over 8 weeks [8], and L-theanine shortened the time healthy adults said they took to fall asleep [10]. Natural Remedies, which makes Holixer, funded the trial. Taiyo Kagaku, which supplied the L-theanine, funded the trial. For more options, read Best Supplements for Sleep in Australia (2026 Guide) or browse our Natural Sleep Aids range.
Chronic Stress and Cortisol
Cortisol is the hormone your body releases under stress. In 64 adults with a history of chronic stress, 600 mg a day of KSM-66 for 60 days lowered perceived stress scores by 44%, against 5.5% on a placebo. Blood cortisol also fell more than on the placebo [5]. Ixoreal Biomed provided the extract, and the paper lists no source of funding. To compare ashwagandha products, read Best Ashwagandha Supplements in Australia (2026 Guide).
Work Stress and Busy Periods
In 60 adults with work stress, a high-dose B complex taken for 3 months lowered personal strain, with no change in anxiety [13]. B vitamins seem to help most when your intake or mood is low [12]. Browse our Vitamin B Complex Supplements for more options.
Stress and Focus
Some calming ingredients may also help you stay sharp. In the lemon balm study, a 300 mg dose sped up maths processing without reducing accuracy [16]. After 4 weeks of L-theanine, verbal fluency and executive function (planning and switching between tasks) scores improved from where people started. Verbal fluency only beat the placebo in people who started with lower scores [10]. For more on L-theanine, read Best L-Theanine Supplements in Australia (2026 Guide). To compare supplements for focus, read Best Supplements For Focus & Concentration in Australia.
Stress, Tiredness and Burnout
Rhodiola is an adaptogen traditionally used for stress and fatigue. In 60 adults diagnosed with stress-related fatigue, 576 mg a day of the SHR-5 rhodiola extract for 28 days improved fatigue and some attention measures more than a placebo [17]. Browse our Rhodiola Supplements range.
Women, Perimenopause and Menopause
Hormonal changes can bring mood swings and worry. In 86 perimenopausal women, 14 mg of affron saffron taken twice a day for 12 weeks reduced psychological symptom scores more than a placebo. Anxiety scores fell by 33% from the start, though hot flushes didn't improve more than on the placebo [26]. Pharmactive, which makes affron, funded the trial. Read Best Hormone Balancing Supplements for Perimenopause in Australia (2026 Guide) or visit our Menopause and Perimenopause Support hub. After menopause, compare options in Best Menopause Supplements in Australia 2026.
When to See Your GP About Stress or Anxiety
Supplements don't treat anxiety disorders. Treatment for an anxiety disorder may include psychological therapy such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), and medicines such as antidepressants for some people [1].
- See your GP: if anxiety is affecting your everyday life, or if you still feel overwhelmed after trying relaxation techniques [1] [4].
- Panic attacks, social anxiety and low mood: these need a proper assessment, and no supplement is a substitute for it.
- Teens: in 80 young people aged 12 to 16 with mild to moderate anxiety or low mood, affron saffron improved their own ratings over 8 weeks, but parents' ratings were inconsistent [27]. Pharmactive funded it. We don't recommend any product on our list for teenagers; talk to your GP first.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: several products on our list aren't recommended, so check with your doctor or midwife first.
- Need help now: call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000) [1].
Vitamins for Stress and Anxiety vs Herbal Adaptogens: What's the Difference?
- Targets: Gaps in your diet that can leave you less able to cope
- Examples: B vitamins and magnesium
- Timeframe: Ongoing, as part of your daily routine
- Best for: A low intake, a busy stretch or a restricted diet
- Consider: B vitamins helped stress but not anxiety in trials
- Targets: Your body's response to stress
- Examples: Ashwagandha, saffron, holy basil, lemon balm
- Timeframe: Trials ran for 4 to 12 weeks
- Best for: Targeted support once the basics are covered
- Consider: Check interactions with your medicines first
Which Stress and Anxiety Supplement Should You Choose?
Choosing a Supplement for Stress and Anxiety
The best supplement for stress and anxiety depends on what's behind how you feel. Carusos Ashwagandha One A Day is our top pick, giving you 600 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha in one tablet a day, at about 39 cents a day on its current sale price. Nutrivital Stress And Anxiety gives the same amount of KSM-66 with four supporting herbs. Carusos Saffron Two A Day suits you if you'd rather try saffron, and Herbs of Gold Activated B Stress pairs B vitamins with Holixer holy basil. Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte and Natures Way Mega B Executive Stress cover nutrients that matter most when your intake is low. Herbs Of Gold L-Theanine 200mg, Fusion Stress And Anxiety and JSHealth Mild Anxiety + Stress Formula suit more specific preferences. Cover the basics first, choose one or two products you'll take every day, and see your GP if anxiety is affecting your life.
How to Choose the Right Stress and Anxiety Supplement for You
-
Start with what's behind your stress
- Work pressure, poor sleep, low mood and a low-nutrient diet point to different ingredients
- If you're not sure, a practitioner can help you prioritise
-
Cover the basics
- Daily exercise and time to relax each day come first
- Check whether your diet is low in magnesium or B vitamins
-
Check the label
- Look for the AUST L number on listed medicines and verify it on the TGA's ARTG register
- Look for a named extract, such as KSM-66, affron or Holixer, and the amount per serve
-
Be wary of big promises
- Any supplement that claims to treat anxiety or replace your medicine
- Proprietary blends that hide ingredient amounts
- Products marketed for children without advice to see a doctor
-
Check your medicines
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist first if you take antidepressants, anxiety medicines or sedatives
-
Give it time
- Most trials ran for 4 to 12 weeks, so take a product daily for at least a month before judging it
-
Compare cost per day
- Larger packs usually work out cheaper per day
Why Buy Your Stress and Anxiety Supplements From Mr Vitamins
- Expert advice, free: qualified practitioners in every store, with no appointment needed, plus 10 minutes with a qualified naturopath online, free and with no obligation to buy
- Trusted since 1992: eight stores across NSW and QLD
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Not Sure Where to Start?
Stress looks different for everyone, and a practitioner can help you work out where to start. Find our practitioners in store, or book 10 minutes with a qualified naturopath from the Mr Vitamins online team, free. You can also browse our full Stress Relief Vitamins range. If anxiety is affecting your daily life, see your GP.
Stress and Anxiety Supplement FAQs
What are the best supplements for stress and anxiety?
There isn't one best supplement for everyone, and supplements don't treat anxiety disorders. Ashwagandha has the most trials in stressed adults [2], saffron and holy basil have promising early research [7] [8], and magnesium and B vitamins matter most if your intake is low. Choose by what's behind your stress, and see your GP if anxiety affects your daily life.
What is the best supplement for anxiety?
No supplement treats an anxiety disorder. Treatment may include psychological therapy and, for some people, medicines, so see your GP if anxiety is affecting your everyday life [1]. For milder, everyday worry, the natural ingredients with the most research are ashwagandha and saffron, mainly in adults under stress or with low mood [2] [6].
What vitamins help with stress and anxiety?
The best vitamins for stress are B vitamins, which have the strongest research of the vitamins. A review of 16 trials found they helped stress, but had no effect on anxiety [12]. Magnesium, a mineral, may help people prone to anxiety, though the evidence is poor quality [14]. Sanofi funded part of that review's literature search. Both make most sense if your diet is low in them.
Do B vitamins for stress and anxiety work?
They can help with stress, but the trials show no effect on anxiety. A review found a small benefit for stress in healthy and at-risk people [12], and a high-dose B complex lowered personal strain in adults with work stress over 3 months [13]. Vitamins can only help if your dietary intake is inadequate.
What is the best magnesium supplement for stress?
There's no single best form. The largest stress trial gave 300 mg of magnesium a day to stressed adults with low blood magnesium [15]. Keep magnesium from supplements under 350 mg a day [23]. Herbs Of Gold Magnesium Forte gives 220 mg per tablet from four forms, at about 32 cents a tablet, and supports a healthy stress response.
Does ashwagandha help with stress and anxiety?
It has the most research of any herb for stress. Across 12 trials in 1,002 adults, ashwagandha lowered stress and anxiety scores more than a placebo, though the certainty of the evidence was low [2]. Benefits for stress were seen at 300 to 600 mg a day [2]. Read Best Ashwagandha Supplements in Australia (2026 Guide) to compare products.
Does ashwagandha have side effects?
In a 60-day trial, side effects were mild and similar to a placebo [5], but ashwagandha has been linked to very rare cases of liver injury. Stop taking it and see your doctor if you notice yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness or stomach pain. Avoid it if you have or have had liver problems [24].
Does L-theanine help with stress and anxiety?
The evidence is modest. A review of 9 trials found 200 to 400 mg a day may help reduce stress and anxiety in people under stressful conditions [11]. In a 4-week trial in 30 healthy adults, only some sleep measures beat the placebo [10]. Read Best L-Theanine Supplements in Australia (2026 Guide) for more.
Is saffron good for anxiety?
Early research is promising. A review of 23 trials found a large effect on anxiety symptoms, though it also found signs that positive studies were more likely to be published [7]. Australian research fellowships, including from the National Health and Medical Research Council, supported its authors. In adults with low mood, 28 mg a day of affron improved mood more than a placebo over 4 weeks [6]. See your GP if anxiety affects your daily life.
Are there supplements for stress, anxiety and depression?
Depression and anxiety disorders need care from your GP, and supplements aren't a substitute for it. Saffron has been studied in adults with low mood [6]. St John's wort is a popular herb for low mood. St John's wort can weaken many medicines, including the contraceptive pill and some antidepressants, and taking it with certain antidepressants can cause serious side effects [25]. Talk to your doctor before trying it.
Can you take anything for stress without a prescription?
Yes. Most tablets for stress and anxiety sold without a prescription are listed medicines with an AUST L number, such as B vitamin, magnesium and herbal tablets. They can relieve symptoms of stress when that's one of their permitted indications. Stress relief medication from a doctor and listed supplements are different things: medicines for anxiety disorders, such as antidepressants, are prescribed by your doctor [1]. Daily exercise and time to relax each day help reduce stress too [4].
What are the best supplements for stress and sleep?
Ashwagandha, holy basil and L-theanine have the most relevant research. KSM-66 ashwagandha improved sleep quality ratings in stressed adults [22], Holixer holy basil improved sleep questionnaire scores over 8 weeks [8], and L-theanine shortened the time healthy adults said they took to fall asleep [10]. Read Best Supplements for Sleep in Australia (2026 Guide) for more.
Do GABA or valerian supplements help with anxiety?
The evidence for both is thin. A review of 14 studies found limited evidence that oral GABA helps with stress [21]. The review's lead author worked for Unilever. A Cochrane review found only one small valerian trial in anxiety, with no difference from a placebo [3].
Is omega-3 good for anxiety?
It may help some people, but the evidence is uncertain. A 2018 review of 19 trials with 2,240 people found fewer anxiety symptoms with omega-3, mainly in people with a diagnosed condition and at doses of 2,000 mg a day or more [18]. One of those trials was later retracted, and the authors posted a reanalysis without it in 2023 [19]. Japanese and Taiwanese public research grants, including from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and Taiwan's Ministry of Science and Technology, supported the review. If you have an anxiety condition, talk to your GP before adding it.
Are there supplements for menopause or perimenopause anxiety?
Saffron has the most relevant research. In 86 perimenopausal women, affron saffron reduced anxiety and other psychological symptom scores more than a placebo over 12 weeks [26]. Talk to your GP about your symptoms and options. Our Menopause and Perimenopause Support hub has more on this life stage.
Are there supplements for social anxiety or panic attacks?
No supplement treats social anxiety or panic attacks. Both are anxiety conditions, and treatment may include psychological therapy and, for some people, medicines, so see your GP [1]. If you need to talk to someone now, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Can teenagers take supplements for stress or anxiety?
Talk to your GP before giving a teenager any supplement. One trial of affron saffron in 80 young people aged 12 to 16 found improvements in their own ratings, but not consistently in their parents' ratings [27]. We don't recommend any product on our list for teenagers.
Can I take stress supplements with antidepressants or anxiety medicine?
Check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Some products should be taken 2 hours away from medicines, and two on our list ask you to check with your doctor or health professional if you take antidepressant or anti-anxiety medicines. St John's wort can weaken many medicines, including the contraceptive pill and some antidepressants, and taking it with certain antidepressants can cause serious side effects [25].
How long do stress supplements take to work?
Most trials ran for 4 to 12 weeks. Holy basil's benefit over a placebo showed from week 6 [8], and ashwagandha trials ran for 8 weeks to 60 days [22] [5]. Take a product daily for at least a month before judging it.
References
- healthdirect Australia. Anxiety. Last reviewed September 2024. healthdirect.gov.au/anxiety
- Akhgarjand C, Asoudeh F, Bagheri A, Kalantar Z, Vahabi Z, Shab-Bidar S, et al. Does Ashwagandha supplementation have a beneficial effect on the management of anxiety and stress? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Phytotherapy Research. 2022;36(11):4115-4124. doi:10.1002/ptr.7598
- Miyasaka LS, Atallah AN, Soares BG. Valerian for anxiety disorders. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2006;(4):CD004515. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD004515.pub2
- healthdirect Australia. Stress. Last reviewed August 2024. healthdirect.gov.au/stress
- Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine. 2012;34(3):255-262. doi:10.4103/0253-7176.106022
- Kell G, Rao A, Beccaria G, Clayton P, Inarejos-García AM, Prodanov M. affron® a novel saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.) improves mood in healthy adults over 4 weeks in a double-blind, parallel, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2017;33:58-64. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2017.06.001
- Marx W, Lane M, Rocks T, Ruusunen A, Loughman A, Lopresti A, et al. Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition Reviews. 2019;77(8):557-571. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuz023
- Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Metse AP, Drummond PD. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of an Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil) extract (Holixer) on stress, mood, and sleep in adults experiencing stress. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2022;9:965130. doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.965130
- Saxena RC, Singh R, Kumar P, Negi MP, Saxena VS, Geetharani P, et al. Efficacy of an extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum (OciBest) in the management of general stress: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2012;2012:894509. doi:10.1155/2012/894509
- Hidese S, Ogawa S, Ota M, Ishida I, Yasukawa Z, Ozeki M, et al. Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2019;11(10):2362. doi:10.3390/nu11102362
- Williams JL, Everett JM, D'Cunha NM, Sergi D, Georgousopoulou EN, Keegan RJ, et al. The Effects of Green Tea Amino Acid L-Theanine Consumption on the Ability to Manage Stress and Anxiety Levels: a Systematic Review. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. 2020;75(1):12-23. doi:10.1007/s11130-019-00771-5
- Young LM, Pipingas A, White DJ, Gauci S, Scholey A. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of B Vitamin Supplementation on Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety, and Stress: Effects on Healthy and ‘At-Risk’ Individuals. Nutrients. 2019;11(9):2232. doi:10.3390/nu11092232
- Stough C, Scholey A, Lloyd J, Spong J, Myers S, Downey LA. The effect of 90 day administration of a high dose vitamin B-complex on work stress. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental. 2011;26(7):470-476. doi:10.1002/hup.1229
- Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L. The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress: a systematic review. Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. doi:10.3390/nu9050429
- Pouteau E, Kabir-Ahmadi M, Noah L, Mazur A, Dye L, Hellhammer J, et al. Superiority of magnesium and vitamin B6 over magnesium alone on severe stress in healthy adults with low magnesemia: A randomized, single-blind clinical trial. PLOS ONE. 2018;13(12):e0208454. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0208454
- Kennedy DO, Little W, Scholey AB. Attenuation of Laboratory-Induced Stress in Humans After Acute Administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosomatic Medicine. 2004;66(4):607-613. doi:10.1097/01.psy.0000132877.72833.71
- Olsson EM, von Schéele B, Panossian AG. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of the standardised extract SHR-5 of the roots of Rhodiola rosea in the treatment of subjects with stress-related fatigue. Planta Medica. 2009;75(2):105-112. doi:10.1055/s-0028-1088346
- Su KP, Tseng PT, Lin PY, Okubo R, Chen TY, Chen YW, et al. Association of use of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids with changes in severity of anxiety symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Network Open. 2018;1(5):e182327. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2018.2327
- Reanalysis after retraction of included article. JAMA Network Open. 2023;6(4):e2310754. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.10754
- Miyasaka LS, Atallah AN, Soares BG. Passiflora for anxiety disorder. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2007;(1):CD004518. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD004518.pub2
- Hepsomali P, Groeger JA, Nishihira J, Scholey A. Effects of Oral Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Administration on Stress and Sleep in Humans: A Systematic Review. Frontiers in Neuroscience. 2020;14:923. doi:10.3389/fnins.2020.00923
- Salve J, Pate S, Debnath K, Langade D. Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Cureus. 2019;11(12):e6466. doi:10.7759/cureus.6466
- National Health and Medical Research Council, Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, New Zealand Ministry of Health. Nutrient reference values for Australia and New Zealand: magnesium. eatforhealth.gov.au
- Therapeutic Goods Administration. Liver injury and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). July 2026. tga.gov.au/node/565835
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. St. John's wort: usefulness and safety. nccih.nih.gov/health/st-johns-wort
- Lopresti AL, Smith SJ. The Effects of a Saffron Extract (affron®) on Menopausal Symptoms in Women during Perimenopause: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Journal of Menopausal Medicine. 2021;27(2):66-78. doi:10.6118/jmm.21002
- Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Inarejos-García AM, Prodanov M. affron®, a standardised extract from saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for the treatment of youth anxiety and depressive symptoms: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Affective Disorders. 2018;232:349-357. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2018.02.070
General Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not a substitute for professional healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.
The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or health condition, including anxiety disorders or depression. Supplements are not a substitute for medicines or psychological treatment prescribed or recommended by your doctor. References to research reflect the current state of published evidence on individual ingredients and are not claims made about any specific product. Individual results may vary.
Products shown with an AUST L number are listed on the TGA Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The TGA doesn't evaluate listed medicines for efficacy before listing; they may only use indications from its list of permitted indications. The scented candle mentioned is a home fragrance product, not a therapeutic good. Always verify current regulatory status for any product on the ARTG.
Product selection and placement reflect the Mr Vitamins team's assessment based on ingredients, research, dose, regulatory status, format and value. Customer reviews are shown as submitted on mrvitamins.com.au and reflect individual experiences. Prices are Mr Vitamins prices at the time of writing and are subject to change.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications or have an existing health condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any supplement. Do not give supplements to children or teenagers without advice from their doctor. Keep all supplements out of reach of children. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
© Mr Vitamins. All rights reserved. Content is reviewed periodically but may not reflect the most current product formulations, regulatory status or research. Published: October 2026. Next review due: October 2027.
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