Buyer's guide · updated 2026-09-24

    Supplements for stress in the UK: what the rules allow and what actually helps

    What is the best supplement for stress in the UK?

    The short answer

    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

    Common stress ingredients and what they can claim
    Approved UK claimNotes
    MagnesiumNormal psychological function; tiredness and fatigueMost useful if your diet is short of it
    Vitamin B6Normal psychological function; tiredness and fatigueCheck for overlap with other supplements
    AshwagandhaNoneNot for pregnancy or thyroid conditions without advice
    L-theanine (green tea)NoneNaturally present in tea
    Maitake and ReishiNoneTraditional use only
    CBDNoneFSA 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
    The verdict

    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.

    Where Grass & Co. loses

    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

    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.