Best Supplements for PTSD (2026)

Post-traumatic stress disorder affects the brain’s stress response system, neurotransmitter balance, and inflammatory pathways. While evidence-based therapy and medication remain the foundation of treatment, certain supplements have shown promise in research for reducing cortisol levels, calming the nervous system, improving sleep quality, and supporting brain health — all areas commonly disrupted by PTSD.

Quick Comparison

Product	Key Ingredient	Form	Best For	Rating
13-in-1 Lithium Orotate with Ashwagandha	Lithium Orotate + Ashwagandha + L-Theanine	Capsules	Best Overall	4.5/5
Effective Nutra Saffron Gummies	Saffron 88.5mg	Gummies	Best Gummies	4.6/5
NOW NAC 600 mg	N-Acetyl Cysteine 600mg	Capsules	Best for Brain Support	4.7/5
Luma Nutrition Saffron Extract	Saffron 88.5mg	Capsules	Best Saffron Capsule	4.5/5
Vitamatic Kava Kava Complex	Kava 1000mg + Magnesium + GABA	Capsules	Best for Anxiety Relief	4.4/5
Metagenics Myo-Inositol Plus	Myo-Inositol + Magnesium	Powder	Best Premium	4.6/5
Genius Joy	SAM-e + Rhodiola + Saffron	Capsules	Best Multi-Pathway	4.5/5

1. 13-in-1 Lithium Orotate with Ashwagandha & L-Theanine – Best Overall

This comprehensive formula targets multiple PTSD pathways — mood stabilization, stress response, and calm focus — in a single supplement.

Each serving provides 10 mg lithium orotate for neuroprotection and mood stability, 300 mg ashwagandha for HPA axis regulation, and 100 mg L-theanine for calm alpha brain wave activity. PTSD disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, keeping cortisol elevated and the body in a persistent fight-or-flight state. Ashwagandha has been clinically shown to reduce cortisol levels by up to 30%, while L-theanine promotes relaxation without sedation — both critical for PTSD management.

• Pros:
• Multi-pathway approach addressing cortisol, mood, and cognitive calm simultaneously
• Low-dose lithium orotate supports neuroprotection and emotional stability
• L-theanine promotes relaxation without drowsiness — useful for daytime anxiety

• Cons:
• 13-ingredient formula means lower individual doses per compound
• Lithium, even at low doses, may require monitoring with certain medications

Best for: Those seeking a comprehensive single-supplement approach to PTSD-related mood and stress support

2. Effective Nutra Saffron Gummies – Best Gummies

Clinically dosed saffron extract in a sugar-free gummy, targeting the serotonin dysregulation that contributes to PTSD-related depression and emotional distress.

These gummies deliver 88.5 mg of saffron extract — the dose studied in clinical trials for mood disorders — alongside vitamin D2 and passion flower. Saffron’s active compounds crocin and safranal modulate serotonin reuptake, addressing the depressive symptoms that commonly accompany PTSD. Vitamin D deficiency has been specifically linked to PTSD severity in military studies, making the added D2 particularly relevant. The sugar-free formula avoids blood sugar spikes that can worsen anxiety.

• Pros:
• Clinically studied 88.5 mg saffron dose for serotonin support
• Added vitamin D2 — a nutrient frequently deficient in PTSD populations
• Sugar-free gummy format that’s easy and pleasant to take daily

• Cons:
• Gummy format may not suit everyone’s preferences
• Saffron may interact with SSRIs and other serotonergic medications

Best for: Those who want a tasty gummy option targeting mood and serotonin support for PTSD

3. NOW Supplements NAC 600 mg – Best for Brain Support

NAC addresses the oxidative stress and glutamate dysregulation that PTSD inflicts on the brain, while also supporting detoxification and reducing substance cravings.

PTSD creates chronic oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, damaging neurons and disrupting neurotransmitter balance. NAC is the precursor to glutathione — the body’s master antioxidant — and also modulates glutamate, the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter. Research has shown NAC can reduce PTSD symptoms, lower depression rates, and decrease cravings for addictive substances that commonly co-occur with PTSD. Each capsule provides 600 mg with added selenium, and the 250-count bottle supports sustained use at clinical doses of 1,200–2,400 mg daily.

• Pros:
• Addresses oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and glutamate imbalance — all central to PTSD
• Research supports benefits for co-occurring substance cravings and depression
• Well-tolerated with a strong safety profile at clinical doses

• Cons:
• Requires 2–4 capsules daily to reach studied dose ranges
• Sulfur compound may cause mild digestive effects initially

Best for: Those focused on brain health recovery and neuroprotection after trauma. For related liver and detox support, see our guide to NAC for liver health.

4. Luma Nutrition Saffron Extract – Best Saffron Capsule

A focused saffron capsule delivering the precise 88.5 mg clinical dose for mood support through serotonin pathway modulation.

Luma Nutrition’s saffron supplement provides standardized saffron extract in a simple capsule format. Saffron works through serotonergic pathways — the same systems disrupted by trauma and targeted by SSRI medications. For PTSD, where depression, emotional blunting, and anxiety frequently overlap, saffron’s dual effects on mood elevation and anxiety reduction make it particularly relevant. The clean formula uses no artificial additives and is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility.

• Pros:
• 88.5 mg clinical dose of standardized saffron extract
• Addresses both depressive and anxiety components of PTSD
• Clean, single-ingredient formula with GMP-certified manufacturing

• Cons:
• May require combination with other supplements for comprehensive PTSD support
• Potential interaction with antidepressant medications

Best for: Those wanting a targeted saffron supplement for PTSD-related mood disturbances

5. Vitamatic Kava Kava Complex – Best for Anxiety Relief

A potent kava-based formula combining multiple calming compounds to address the hyperarousal and anxiety that define PTSD.

This complex delivers 1,000 mg kava kava alongside magnesium, ashwagandha, GABA, theobromine, and L-theanine. Kava acts on the amygdala — the brain’s fear center, which becomes overactive in PTSD — producing anxiolytic effects similar to benzodiazepines but without the addiction risk. Research published in Psychiatric Times identifies kava as one of the most effective botanical nervines for anxiety, functioning as both a muscle relaxant and cognitive performance enhancer. The added GABA and magnesium amplify the calming effects.

• Pros:
• Kava directly targets the amygdala — the overactive fear center in PTSD
• Comprehensive calming blend with GABA, magnesium, and L-theanine
• Muscle relaxant properties help with PTSD-related physical tension

• Cons:
• Kava should be used with caution alongside alcohol or liver-affecting medications
• Not recommended for daily long-term use without medical guidance

Best for: Those experiencing significant hyperarousal, startle responses, and anxiety from PTSD

6. Metagenics Myo-Inositol Plus – Best Premium

A practitioner-grade formula combining myo-inositol with chelated magnesium for nervous system support, stress reduction, and improved sleep quality.

Metagenics pairs myo-inositol with magnesium bis-glycinate — a highly absorbable form of magnesium — in a powder format. This combination targets multiple PTSD symptoms: inositol supports serotonin signaling and mood regulation, while magnesium helps calm the nervous system, improve sleep quality, and reduce the hyperexcitability common after trauma. As the #1 doctor-recommended professional supplement brand, Metagenics maintains GMP certification and third-party testing for every batch.

• Pros:
• Practitioner-grade quality with third-party testing and full traceability
• Chelated magnesium bis-glycinate for superior absorption and calming effects
• Powder format allows flexible dosing — 1 to 3 scoops daily

• Cons:
• Premium price point compared to standard inositol powders
• Available primarily through healthcare practitioners or specialty retailers

Best for: Those who want a doctor-recommended, professional-grade formula for PTSD nervous system support

7. Genius Joy – Best Multi-Pathway

A nootropic mood enhancer combining SAM-e, rhodiola rosea, and saffron for comprehensive neurotransmitter support and stress resilience.

Genius Joy takes a multi-pathway approach to mood by including SAM-e (supports dopamine and serotonin production), rhodiola rosea (an adaptogen that enhances stress resilience and reduces cortisol), and saffron extract (serotonin reuptake support). This combination addresses the neurotransmitter depletion and stress response dysfunction characteristic of PTSD. Rhodiola is particularly relevant for PTSD as it enhances the body’s capacity to adapt to ongoing stress without the sedation associated with many calming supplements.

• Pros:
• Multi-ingredient approach supporting dopamine, serotonin, and stress adaptation
• Rhodiola rosea enhances stress resilience without sedation
• SAM-e supports neurotransmitter production directly

• Cons:
• SAM-e may cause mania in bipolar individuals — screen before use
• Multiple active ingredients increase the potential for medication interactions

Best for: Those seeking broad neurotransmitter and adaptogenic support for PTSD-related mood challenges

8. Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega – Best Omega-3

A high-potency omega-3 fish oil delivering concentrated EPA and DHA to combat the neuroinflammation and mood disruption caused by PTSD.

Each serving provides 1,280 mg total omega-3s with high EPA content — the fatty acid most studied for anti-inflammatory and mood benefits. PTSD creates chronic neuroinflammation that damages brain structures involved in memory and emotional regulation. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce this inflammation, support neurotransmitter signaling, and improve the structural integrity of brain cell membranes. Nordic Naturals is third-party tested for purity and freshness, with Friend of the Sea certification for sustainability. For broader omega-3 heart health benefits, this formula covers multiple wellness goals.

• Pros:
• High EPA content for targeted anti-inflammatory and mood support
• Third-party tested for heavy metals, PCBs, and freshness
• Lemon-flavored softgels minimize fish burp common with lower-quality fish oils

• Cons:
• Requires 2 softgels per day for the full serving
• Higher price than basic fish oil supplements

Best for: Those focused on reducing neuroinflammation and supporting overall brain health after trauma

9. NOW Foods Magnesium Glycinate – Best for Sleep & Calm

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Highly absorbable magnesium glycinate to support sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and calm the overactivated nervous system common in PTSD.

Magnesium deficiency is common in individuals under chronic stress, and PTSD significantly depletes magnesium stores. This glycinate form offers superior absorption and bioavailability compared to oxide or citrate forms, and is less likely to cause GI distress. Magnesium supports GABA receptor function — the brain’s primary calming neurotransmitter — and research in Psychiatric Times highlights its role in reducing circulating cortisol and improving sleep in trauma-affected populations. Each tablet provides 100 mg elemental magnesium in 180-count bottles.

• Pros:
• Glycinate form is gentle on the stomach and highly absorbable
• Supports GABA function, sleep quality, and cortisol reduction
• Trusted NOW Foods manufacturing with GMP certification

• Cons:
• 100 mg per tablet — requires multiple tablets to reach optimal doses of 200–400 mg
• Tablet form rather than capsule may not suit all preferences

Best for: Those with PTSD-related sleep disruption, muscle tension, and anxiety looking for a foundational mineral supplement

How to Choose the Best Supplements for PTSD

PTSD disrupts multiple body systems simultaneously — the stress response (HPA axis), neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, GABA, glutamate), inflammatory pathways, and sleep architecture. Effective supplement strategies address multiple pathways rather than relying on a single compound. Consider starting with one or two foundational supplements like magnesium and omega-3s before adding targeted options like NAC, saffron, or adaptogens.

Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea help regulate the HPA axis and reduce chronically elevated cortisol, directly addressing the sustained fight-or-flight state that defines PTSD. L-theanine and kava target the amygdala and GABA pathways for anxiety reduction. NAC provides neuroprotection through antioxidant support and glutamate modulation.

Prioritize supplements from manufacturers with GMP certification, third-party testing, and transparent ingredient sourcing. Avoid proprietary blends that hide individual ingredient amounts. Look for standardized extracts (like KSM-66 ashwagandha or standardized saffron) that ensure consistent potency across batches.

Supplements should always complement — not replace — professional PTSD treatment including trauma-focused therapy (such as EMDR or CPT) and psychiatric care. Some supplements can interact with PTSD medications, particularly SSRIs and benzodiazepines, so coordination with a healthcare provider is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What supplements are most helpful for PTSD symptoms?

The most researched supplements for PTSD include omega-3 fatty acids (reducing neuroinflammation), magnesium (supporting GABA function and sleep), ashwagandha (lowering cortisol), NAC (neuroprotection and glutamate modulation), and vitamin D (frequently deficient in PTSD populations). Combining several of these to address multiple pathways tends to produce better results than any single supplement.

Can supplements help with PTSD nightmares and sleep?

Magnesium glycinate, L-theanine, and melatonin have the most evidence for improving PTSD-related sleep disturbances. Magnesium supports GABA activity and muscle relaxation, L-theanine promotes calm alpha brain waves, and melatonin helps regulate disrupted circadian rhythms. Phosphatidylserine taken before bed has also shown promise in reducing nighttime cortisol spikes that trigger nightmares.

Is ashwagandha safe for PTSD?

Ashwagandha is generally well-tolerated and has been studied for its ability to reduce cortisol levels by up to 30%. For PTSD, this cortisol-lowering effect directly addresses the hyperactivated stress response. The KSM-66 extract form has the most research backing. However, ashwagandha may interact with thyroid medications, immunosuppressants, and sedatives, so medical consultation is recommended.

How long do PTSD supplements take to work?

Most supplements require 4–8 weeks of consistent use for noticeable effects. Magnesium and L-theanine may improve sleep within the first week. Ashwagandha typically shows cortisol reduction within 4–6 weeks. Omega-3s require 8–12 weeks to meaningfully reduce neuroinflammation. NAC also works on a gradual timeline of 8–12 weeks for full effect.

Can you take PTSD supplements with prescription medications?

Many supplements are safe alongside PTSD medications, but interactions exist. NAC and magnesium are generally safe with SSRIs. Saffron and St. John’s Wort can cause serotonin syndrome when combined with antidepressants. Kava should not be combined with benzodiazepines or alcohol. Always disclose all supplements to your prescribing provider to avoid adverse interactions.

What vitamins are PTSD patients commonly deficient in?

Research has identified common deficiencies in vitamin D, magnesium, B vitamins (especially B12 and folate), zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids among those with PTSD. Vitamin D deficiency has been so strongly linked to PTSD severity that military researchers have recommended routine screening and supplementation for service members. A comprehensive nutrient panel can help identify specific deficiencies worth addressing.

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