Supplements for Depression
7 supplements with research evidence for Depression
What the Research Shows
Several supplements have shown moderate evidence regarding their potential impact on depression. SAMe has been studied as both a standalone treatment and an addition to other therapies for adults. Chamomile and lavender also show moderate evidence, with chamomile potentially helping those who also experience anxiety, and lavender helping to reduce depressive symptoms and manage related anxiety. While tryptophan has been investigated as a natural alternative to traditional antidepressants, the research results for this supplement remain varied. Other supplements currently lack strong scientific support. Riboflavin shows only weak evidence, as studies regarding its link to depression risk are inconsistent. Additionally, there is insufficient evidence to confirm the effectiveness of biotin or pregnenolone for treating depression.
AI-generated overview based on research evidence. Not medical advice.
Evidence-Backed Supplements
Supplements ranked by evidence strength: strong = Tier-A meta-analyses/guidelines, moderate = Tier-B RCTs/systematic reviews, weak = Tier-C observational.
| Supplement | Evidence Strength | Research Sources | Products on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamomile Best products → | moderate | 0 | 178 |
| Same Best products → | moderate | 0 | 94 |
| Lavender Best products → | moderate | 0 | 94 |
| Tryptophan Best products → | moderate | 0 | 80 |
| Riboflavin Best products → | weak | 0 | 371 |
| Biotin Best products → | insufficient | 0 | 654 |
| Pregnenolone Best products → | insufficient | 0 | 45 |
This page is generated from AI-analyzed evidence summaries. Evidence strength ratings are based on the quality and quantity of available research, not guaranteed effectiveness. Always consult a healthcare provider before using supplements for any health condition.
See our Editorial Policy for methodology and Medical Disclaimer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What supplements have the strongest evidence for Depression?
No supplements currently have strong (Tier-A) evidence for Depression. The best-supported supplements are: Chamomile (moderate evidence), Same (moderate evidence), Lavender (moderate evidence).
How many supplements have been studied for Depression?
7 supplements have been researched in connection with Depression, with varying levels of evidence strength. See the table above for details on each supplement's evidence rating and number of research sources.