Supplements for stress in the UK: what the rules allow and what actually helps
What is the best supplement for stress in the UK?
No supplement is authorised in the UK to reduce stress or anxiety. The approved claims that come closest: Magnesium, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 contribute to normal psychological function, and Magnesium and B vitamins contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Ashwagandha, L-theanine and Maitake have traditional or early research interest but no authorised claim. For everyday stress, sleep, movement, daylight and cutting back on caffeine help most. If stress or anxiety is affecting daily life, speak to your GP.
Common stress ingredients and what they can claim
| Approved UK claim | Notes | |
|---|---|---|
| Magnesium | Normal psychological function; tiredness and fatigue | Most useful if your diet is short of it |
| Vitamin B6 | Normal psychological function; tiredness and fatigue | Check for overlap with other supplements |
| Ashwagandha | None | Not for pregnancy or thyroid conditions without advice |
| L-theanine (green tea) | None | Naturally present in tea |
| Maitake and Reishi | None | Traditional use only |
| CBD | None | FSA advises no more than 10mg a day |
The trade-offs
Grass & Co. RELAX capsules
- Magnesium and B6 with approved claims
- Ashwagandha, green tea L-theanine and Maitake in one capsule
- Vegan Society registered
- Cannot claim to reduce stress
- Ashwagandha is not for everyone; check with your GP if pregnant or on medication
Plain magnesium tablet
- Cheapest way to get the approved claim
- Widely available
- No other ingredients
- No ritual or story to keep the habit going
Start with sleep, movement and less caffeine. If you add a supplement, pick one with magnesium and B vitamins in stated amounts, and treat botanicals as a bonus rather than a treatment.
A plain magnesium tablet is cheaper than RELAX if the approved claim is all you want. And for ongoing anxiety, talking to a GP or therapist is the right step, not a supplement.
Mentioned in this piece
Questions people ask
- What supplement is best for stress?
- None is authorised to reduce stress in the UK. Magnesium, Vitamin B6 and B12 contribute to normal psychological function, which is the closest approved claim.
- Is ashwagandha safe?
- Most adults tolerate it, but it is not advised in pregnancy, for thyroid conditions or alongside some medicines. Check with your GP or pharmacist first.
- Are mushroom supplements good for stress?
- Mushrooms such as Maitake and Reishi have long traditional use, but no health claim is authorised for them in the UK.
More comparisons
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- The format questionCapsules vs powder vs drinks
Grass & Co. products are food supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Do not exceed the stated dose. Most products are for adults; CBD is for adults only.
