Guide
Stress and anxiety — herbal and over-the-counter remedies
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Stress and mild nervous tension are part of daily life for many people. For mild, passing complaints, some people use herbal supplements for calming, alongside lifestyle measures. Below we describe the commonly used ingredients; choose an ingredient to see available products and prices. Important: anxiety that interferes with daily life needs a medical assessment — these remedies do not replace treatment.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
Herbal remedies for calming
For mild tension and difficulty falling asleep, herbal products with valerian are sometimes used, as well as lemon balm, lavender or passionflower, alone or in combinations. Adaptogens such as ashwagandha are sold as supplements for coping with stress. The effect is individual and usually mild; products differ in composition and dosage.
Magnesium and diet
Magnesium takes part in nerve and muscle function and is sometimes taken for a feeling of tension and tiredness; however, it mainly helps with insufficient intake. A balanced diet, enough fluids and limiting caffeine and alcohol often matter more noticeably than a single supplement.
Lifestyle measures
For stress, regular physical activity, enough sleep, breathing and relaxation techniques, time outdoors and keeping social contacts all help. These measures have no side effects and are often more effective than a supplement. Limiting caffeine, especially in the afternoon, can ease tension and sleep.
When to seek help
See a doctor or psychologist for anxiety or low mood that persists, worsens or interferes with work, sleep and relationships, for panic attacks, intrusive thoughts or thoughts of self-harm. These conditions have effective treatment and should not be left to herbal remedies alone.
Commonly used active ingredients
Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.
Frequently asked questions
Do herbal remedies help with anxiety?
For mild, passing tension, some people report a calming effect from herbal products (e.g. valerian), but the data are limited and the effect is individual. For marked or lasting anxiety, they do not replace medical help. If unsure, and when taking other medicines, consult a pharmacist or doctor.
Valerian or magnesium — which should I choose?
Valerian is used mainly for calming and supporting sleep, while magnesium is used for a feeling of tension and tiredness, mainly with insufficient intake. The choice depends on the complaints and tolerability. Products differ in composition, so if unsure, ask a pharmacist.
Are herbal sedatives safe?
Herbal products are not automatically safe for everyone — interactions with medicines, reactions in pregnancy and breastfeeding, or with certain conditions are possible. Read the leaflet and consult a pharmacist or doctor, especially if you take other medicines or drive.
Can I combine them with other medicines?
Some herbal sedatives can interact with medicines (e.g. sedatives, antidepressants) or increase drowsiness. Do not combine them without consulting a pharmacist or doctor, especially when taking prescription medicines, before driving or operating machinery.
When does anxiety need a doctor?
Seek help when anxiety or tension is strong, frequent or lasting, interferes with daily life, sleep and relationships, or comes with panic attacks or low mood. A psychologist or doctor can suggest effective approaches that herbal supplements do not replace.