Best Nootropics for Anxiety in 2023: Effective Anxiety and Stress Relief

Thanks to their content of natural anxiolytics and adaptogens, nootropics may be effective for stress relief and anxiety reduction.

Daily challenges at the workplace, university, or personal life may interfere with brain activity resulting in mental fatigue, poor sleep, and anxiety. Nootropics were shown to enhance cognitive well-being, thus alleviating related psychological outcomes.

You may need evidence-backed advice when choosing the best nootropic for these psychological concerns. Therefore, we tailored a list of top-rated nootropics below, each carrying potential stress and anxiety management benefits.

Best nootropics for anxiety: shortlist

• PureHealth Research — best nootropic to reduce anxiety and stress
• Performance Lab — best nootropic formula for anxiety and stress
• Vyvamind — best for ADHD-related anxiety
• Onnit — best nootropics for stress-induced memory difficulties
• Oweli — best nootropics for cognitive function under anxiety

How to choose the best nootropics to combat anxiety and depression?

We differentiated several primary criteria to consider when buying supplements to avoid additional stress while looking for the best nootropics.

Ingredients	Science-backed
Manufacturing	cGMP-certified facilities
Testing	Independent lab testing
Customer reviews	Product and service feedback

• Ingredients. When buying nootropics, look for scientifically proven ingredients to impact anxiety and stress positively.
• Manufacturing. This step is one of the primary ones to guarantee you are not exposed to harmful chemicals. Look for products developed in FDA-approved facilities following Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
• Testing. Third-party testing involves meticulously examining the nootropic supplement to detect any possible contaminants. It helps to establish if the ingredients and their dosages specified on the label are factually present in the capsule.
• Customer satisfaction. Positive customer feedback may suggest that the supplement is working, and the customers are satisfied with the service they received, including delivery times, packaging, response to queries, etc. Look for reviews on independent platforms from real users.

Best nootropics for anxiety in 2023: overview

Nootropics, or “smart drugs,” may influence brain activity, leading to stress and anxiety relief.

Cognitive function, stress, and anxiety are intertwined. Frequently acute or mild stress may interfere with memory, learning, and mood.Furthermore, poor cognitive performance due to the intensity of daily tasks and difficulty focusing or remembering may also lead to chronic stress.

People looking for alternatives to prescription medications — associated with several side effects — may choose to explore the benefits of nootropics. In this review, we assembled the best nootropics for stress and anxiety in 2023 to facilitate the selection.

1. PureHelath Research — best nootropic to reduce stress and anxity

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PureHealth Research nootropics contain adaptogenic and medical mushrooms, known to help not only enhance cognitive activity, but also help the body get used to the stress, and reduce anxiety.

Besides it contains 4 other adaptogenic herbal extracts which may help improve cognitive functioning under stress and reduce anxiety symptoms. One of such adaptogens inside PureHealth Research is Bacopa monnieri which was shown to reduce anxiety and improve cognition.

The product doesn’t contain nuts, gluten, or GMOs, and it is vegan. PureHealth Research produces its expert-designed supplements in cGMP-certified manufacturing sites.

Active ingredients

PureHealth Research nootropic with mushrooms contains 12 ingredients.

Mushroom blend, 500 mg Although future studies on effectiveness of medicinal mushrooms for people are needed, available animal studies suggest they may be involved in stress reduction, anti-inflammatory activities, and cognitive enhancement.

Bacopa monnieri, 150 mg: This is a well-known adaptogenic herb that has been found to reduce stress and anxiety.

How it works

PureHealth Research is a combination of adaptogenic herbs and mushrooms that work toward empowering the brain's resistance to stress.

By taking 2 daily capsules of this nootropic, you are more likely to keep calm under stressful daily conditions.

One bottle of PureHealth Research comes with 60 capsules and costs $69.00 ($2.30 per serving).

2. Performance Lab — best nootropics with simple formula for anxiety and stress

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Mind manufactured by Performance Lab is a unique product combining 4 nootropic ingredients. 3 out of these ingredients are patented and developed by established sources.

L-tyrosine and Maritime pine bark in Performance Lab Mind may be involved in the stress and anxiety reducing activities in the body. The latter may also reduce inflammation and protect brain cells and nerves against oxidative stress. Yet, the evidence regarding these findings is limited.

The ingredients are believed to be more bioavailable and contain no major allergens. Performance Lab Mind is a soy, gluten, and dairy-free product containing no unnecessary additives, and is developed in cGMP-certified manufacturing sites.

Active ingredients

Phosphatidylserine (PS), 100 mg: Decline of working memory and learning ability are other reasons for stress and anxiety. A study where people were administered PS for 12 weeks demonstrated improved memory, recall, and learning.

Maritime pine bark extract, 75 mg: Although more data is needed to confirm the findings, maritime pine bark was demonstrated to have antioxidant properties able to reduce inflammation and boost learning and memory.

How it works

According to the provider, Performance Lab Mind helps improve such aspects of cognitive function as focus, speed, motivation, as well as improve energy, and memory.

Due to the formula of brain hormone precursors and natural extracts, it may help to protect against stress and anxiety due to mental fatigue.

The provider recommends taking 1–2 capsules daily to achieve desired effects.

One bottle of Mind by Performance Lab contains 30 capsules and is sold at $59.00 ($1.96 per serving).

3. Vyvamind — best nootropic for ADHD-related anxiety

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Vyvamind incorporates caffeine anhydrous and L-theanine. Studies show that the combination may have synergistic effects by improving inattention among people with ADHD who are likely to have anxiety.

Regular supplementation with L-theanine was shown to play a role in stress and anxiety reduction. Its relaxing effects are related to the production of alpha brain waves and are greater in people experiencing acute stress.

Although the results regarding the effects of L-tyrosine for ADHD are mixed, around 5–10% of people with ADHD may benefit from its cognitive function support under stress. Thus, someone who has difficulties concentrating is more likely to profit from Vyvamind’s formula with L-tyrosine.

Active ingredients

Vyvamind is a formulation of 6 scientifically-proven ingredients. In addition to the ones mentioned above, let’s learn more about the others.

L-tyrosine, 300 mg: This is a non-essential amino acid in the human body and is involved in producing dopamine.

Vitamin B12, 50 mcg: Studies show that supplementation with vitamin B12 may reduce stress.

How it works

Vyvamind works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, thus inducing tranquility and brain energy.

By taking 2 capsules of Vyvamind nootropic a day, you are more likely to achieve stress relief while working night shifts, preparing for exams and competitions, or dealing with emergencies.

One bottle of Vyvamind contains 60 capsules and costs $74.99 ($2.50 per serving). This may be a cost-effective nootropic option if you stick with the recommended daily dose.

4. Onnit — best nootropic for stress-induced memory difficulties

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Onnit presents Alpha BRAIN® that has been shown to improve memory and clarity under stress in an independent human clinical trial.

This is a formulation of 3 blends — flow, fuel, and focus — which aims to activate alpha brain waves for calmness, better thinking and performing abilities. Onnit Alpha BRAIN® contains minimal additives to keep the integrity of ingredients in the capsule.

This nootropic product is manufactured in cGMP-certified sites, and may also be suitable for sportsman as it is approved by Informed Sports which is a third-party testing in an anti-doping laboratory.

Active ingredients

Hunter Focus is a formulation of 20 nootropic ingredients incorporating vitamins for brain health.

Alpha GPC: Although it may not help with anxiety, it can help improve motivation.

Vitamin B6, 10 mg: Supplementing with vitamin B6 was show to reduce feeling of stress, anxiety, as well as improve cognitive function.

Pterostilbene: Supplementation with this potent antioxidant showed some benefits in reducing stress and anxiety symptoms. It is also believed to slow down brain aging.

How it works

Onnit provides evidence-based support to cognitive and mental health. You can tackle daily challenges while working under pressure by enhancing mental well-being and boosting memory.

You may achieve stress relief and improved brain function by taking 2 capsules daily.

A bottle containing 90 capsules is sold for $79.95 ($1.77 per serving).

5. Oweli — best nootropic for cognitive function under anxiety

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Oweli presents the Neuro containing vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and a proprietary blend of nootropic supplements — playing a key role in brain energy, body, and mental support.

Vitamins in Oweli Neuro is responsible for brain energy production and neuronal health protection. The task of the minerals in Oweli’s formula is the assistance in energy production.

The proprietary blend of nootropics and amino acids works by promoting cognitive performance and motivation.

Oweli Neuro contains fish and soy. It may be safe for consumption as it is made in cGMP-certified facilities in the USA.

Active ingredients

The manufacturer of Oweli Neuro combined 17 active ingredients with a proprietary blend.

Selenium, 50 mcg: May help in energy metabolism, boost the immune system, and protect against inflammation.

Manganese, 400 mcg: It’s crucial for the brain and nervous system's well-being.

Vitamin B5, 12 mg: It’s responsible for breaking fats into energy, as well as protecting the nervous system.

How it works

Oweli Neuro nootropic is developed to help you achieve peak performance.

Oweli Neuro already contains enough minerals and vitamins. Additional supplementation may lead to overdose.

One container of Oweli Neuro contains 60 capsules and is sold at $59.99 ($2.00 per serving).

Comparing the top 5 nootropics for anxiety

Brand	Review	Price	Price per serving	Daily serving size	Capsules per bottle	Ingredients for stress and anxiety relief	Stimulants	Vegan/vegetarian	cGMP facilities	Our pick for
PureHealth Research	-	$69.00	$2.30	2 capsules	60	Lion's mane, Chaga, Reishi, Shiitake, Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea	No	Yes	Yes	Best nootropic to reduce anxiety and stress
Performance Lab	Peformance Lab review	$59.00	$1.96	1–2 capsules	30	L-tyrosine, Maritime pine bark extract	No	Yes	Yes	Best nootropic formula for anxiety and stress
Vyvamind	Vyvamind review	$74.99	$2.50	2 capsules	60	L-theanine, L-tyrosine	Yes	Yes	Yes	Best for ADHD-related anxiety
Onnit	-	$79.95	$1.77	2 capsules	90	Bacopa monnieri, L-theanine, L-tyrosine,	Yes	Yes	Yes	Best nootropics for stress-induced memory difficulties
Oweli	Oweli review	$59.99	$2.00	2 capsules	60	Bacopa monnieri extract, green tea extract	No	Yes	Yes	Best nootropics for cognitive function under anxiety

How we compiled our list of best nootropics for anxiety in 2023

We examined the market of the top-rated nootropics and included the ones with the highest quality in our list. To estimate the effectiveness of these nootropic supplements, we considered the following factors:

• Safety
• Dosage
• Customer reviews
• Price
• Ingredients

Safety

The quality production process may guarantee the safety of the nootropic product. Specifically, nootropics manufactured in FDA-approved and cGMP-certified facilities can be considered safe to consume.

Another aspect ensuring the quality and safety of the nootropics is third-party testing. This is a lab examination by authorized parties for the purity and quality of the product.

Dosage

Considering that nootropic supplements come as a stack of up to 20 ingredients, there are no established doses for them. However, you can pay attention to the amount of each ingredient in the capsule and check if that is safe for consumption.

Also, consider the recommended amount of capsules per day for your convenience. The nootropic brands on our list offer optimal doses of ingredients, however, do not take our word for it and check with your doctor for the suitable doses for you.

Customer reviews

Although you should not make your decision based on customer reviews, they can be helpful insights into how the product may affect your health.

Brand reputation is also built on customer trust. Thus, companies that are transparent about their manufacturing process and products should consider reviews as constructive feedback to improve the quality.

Price

Look for potent nootropics at a reasonable price to better organize your expenses. For that reason, consider the serving size of the nootropic and the amount you will spend on daily supplementation.

Although nootropics are often costly supplements for brain and mental health, it’s possible to find affordable options that do not compromise on quality.

We did the math for you and provided the prices of the best nootropics for stress in the comparison table above.

Ingredients

The high number of ingredients in a nootropic supplement does not ensure potency. Yet, you should consider buying nootropics containing evidence-backed ingredients for stress and anxiety relief.

Look for supplements that come without additives or fillers. Often, nootropics contain caffeine which some people may aim to limit or avoid altogether. Pay attention to the presence and the amount of caffeine. Note that caffeine anhydrous is more potent than regular caffeine.

How nootropics can help relieve anxiety and stress

Different nootropics work through different pathways to help with stress and anxiety. This includes modulating the production of neurotransmitters, reducing cortisol, and influencing alpha brain waves associated with a calm mental state, to name a few.

For instance, ashwagandha, often used in nootropics, may hinder the production of cortisol — a hormone released during stress and anxiety.

Another widely used nootropic, L-theanine, may increase GABA levels known to promote calming effects. It may also inhibit glutamate release, the accumulation of which in the brain may be correlated with chronic stress and anxiety.

Cognitive fatigue or memory lapses may lead to stress and anxiety. Originally designed to promote brain energy and functioning, nootropics can relieve stress by fostering cognitive and mental well-being even under demanding tasks.

The most powerful nootropic ingredients for anxiety

Research sheds light on numerous herbal nootropics demonstrating anxiolytic and stress relief effects. Some of the most eminent of them are the following:

• Panax ginseng
• Ginkgo biloba
• Ashwagandha
• Rhodiola rosea
• L-theanine

Panax ginseng

The root extract of panax ginseng is used in nootropic supplements and is associated with improved mental health.

People who consumed this herbal nootropic for 4 weeks reported better quality of life, specifically in social functioning and mental aspects. However, with continued supplementation, the effects may attenuate.

Panax ginseng is also considered one of the potent nootropics enhancing sleep quality. While poor sleep patterns are recognized as one of the reasons for stress and anxiety, sleep improvement can potentially prevent these outcomes.

Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is extensively used in nootropic formulations due to its potency to increase blood flow to the brain and improve cognition. In addition to this, researchers link its consumption with lower anxiety.

However, scientists mention that the effectiveness of ginkgo biloba is dose-dependent: higher doses — more significant improvements in anxiety symptoms.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most studied herbs for its relaxing effects. Despite numerous proposed benefits, the most substantial evidence exists for ashwagandha's anxiolytic and stress-reducing benefits.

According to scientific findings, ashwagandha may play a role in stress reduction by inhibiting the production of stress hormones. As evident from human studies, 240 mg of ashwagandha may lead to lower anxiety — a bit lower amount than in Hunter Focus.

L-theanine

L-theanine, obtained from green tea leaves, is used in nootropics for its ability to deliver tranquility. Research of the available studies suggests that the administration of L-theanine may help reduce interrelated stress and anxiety symptoms.

This natural anxiolytic works by promoting alpha wave production and lowering the levels of glutamate in the brain. According to researchers, the calming effects of L-theanine are more evident among people with a tendency to anxiety and stress.

However, more research is needed to support the idea that it may also be helpful for mitigating chronic stress and depression.

Can nootropics help with social anxiety?

Nootropics’ effectiveness for social anxiety, in particular, has not been studied. Yet, there is some evidence for the calming and cognitive-enhancing effects of specific nootropic ingredients, which may also be beneficial for social anxiety.

The best way to address it is to seek help from a licensed therapist. Millions of people also benefit from mental health and therapy apps. The use of nootropics to alleviate social anxiety should be consulted with a doctor.

Are nootropics for anxiety safe for everyone?

The safety profile of nootropics for everyone is yet to be established. As for now, there are limited studies that examined nootropics for specific psychological disorders.

On the other hand, L-theanine was studied for its therapeutic effects among people with schizophrenia and demonstrated sleep and anxiety improvement. It was also shown to be safe and well-tolerated among study participants.

Also, L-theanine, in combination with a prescription treatment of fluvoxamine, demonstrates safe and effective therapeutic effects in people with mild to severe OCD. But note that nootropics may not have the same health benefits for people with OCD and those living without it.

Essentially, not all nootropic ingredients have been evaluated for their safety in certain mental disorders. Thus, consultation with a doctor is necessary before supplementation with nootropics, especially with accompanied health disorders.

Prescription-only drugs for anxiety

Benzodiazepines (BZs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are known as first-line prescription medications to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. BZs bring quick relief in 30 mins to 1 hour. In contrast, SSRIs can take a few weeks before the benefits are felt.

Remember that BZs are highly addictive and may pose adverse effects. Thus, their consumption should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

These are some of the most frequently prescribed medications to treat severe depression and anxiety:

• Escitalopram
• Paroxetine
• Alprazolam

Escitalopram

Escitalopram, sold under the brand name Lexapro, belongs to the group of SSRIs. These medications are prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder by regulating the production and reabsorption of serotonin in the brain.

Meta-analysis shows that it can be a potent treatment for social anxiety showing meaningful improvements in people who took the drug compared to the placebo group.

Significantly, the consumption of these medications is related to such adverse effects as nausea, headaches, poor sexual health, drowsiness, and other side effects following the withdrawal.

Paroxetine

Sold under the brand names Paxil and Seroxat, paroxetine is used to treat depression, social anxiety, panic attacks, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These medications help to balance the neurotransmitter levels in people experiencing depression and anxiety.

Paroxetine comes in two forms — liquid and tablet — making its consumption convenient for everyone.

Yet, doctor’s surveillance is important while taking this medication as it’s associated with several side effects. This is especially crucial when combining them with herbal supplements or other medications.

Alprazolam

Alprazolam is popularly known as Xanax and is one of the frequently prescribed BZs. It is meant to treat panic attacks and anxiety and is often used off-label for treating severe depression.

This is a fast-acting medication (30 mins–1 hour) that affects the production of GABA neurotransmitters delivering calming effects. According to research, it’s superior to other antidepressants.

Similar to other antidepressants, doctors may advise gradual withdrawal from alprazolam by lowering the dosage to avoid severe anxiety. Misuse and side effects are also possible, including lack of coordination, fatigue, hypertension, and irritability.

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