Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Stress Support Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by GNC Preventive Nutrition

Stress Support label
See full label image
Other (e.g. Tea Bag) Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Stress Support against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Stress Support is a dietary supplement by GNC Preventive Nutrition with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for anxiety and stress, relaxation and calm, sleep support.Based on those ingredients, 1,430 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract, Suntheanine L-Theanine, affron Saffron extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 11, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product has five active ingredients. Theanine is an amino acid derived from tea that may support focus and calm.

Ashwagandha is an herbal extract traditionally used for stress and sleep. Lemon balm is an herbal extract that may ease stress and mood.

Saffron extract comes from the crocus flower and may support mood. The fifth ingredient, Relora, is a blend of magnolia and phellodendron bark extracts for stress support.

The rest of the formula consists of inactive ingredients—fillers, binders, and capsule materials like cellulose, starch, and silica.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: manage everyday stress and promote relaxation.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Fatigue, Stress management, Emotional resilience, Sleep quality.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Lemon Balm is rated "Possibly Effective" for Stress (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Anxiety, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Stress.
  • Also on file: Magnolia is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety, Stress.

Theanine is rated possibly effective for cognitive function, but evidence is insufficient to rate it for age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or cancer. Ashwagandha is possibly effective for stress, anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, and insomnia.

Evidence is insufficient for bipolar disorder. Lemon balm is possibly effective for stress and depression, as well as for cold sores.

Saffron is possibly effective for Alzheimer's disease and chemotherapy-induced nerve pain. We hold no effectiveness data for Relora.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Theanine Ashwagandha Lemon Balm Magnolia Saffron

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 5 of the 5 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 5 of 5.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 5 of 5.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Theanine is generally well tolerated in healthy adults for short-term use, though long-term safety hasn't been well studied. Possible side effects include headaches, drowsiness, and increased dream activity.

Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated short-term, but quality and long-term data are limited. Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can occur but are uncommon at typical doses; rare cases of liver injury have been reported.

Lemon balm is generally well tolerated for short-term use; dizziness and sedation have been reported but don't occur more often than with placebo. Saffron appears well tolerated; gastrointestinal complaints, nausea, and sedation are the most common side effects, though rare anaphylactic reactions are possible.

At high doses, saffron can cause anxiety and agitation. For pregnancy: theanine and lemon balm lack sufficient safety data — avoid unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Ashwagandha is traditionally thought to risk miscarriage, so avoid it. Saffron at medicinal or supplement doses may stimulate the uterus — avoid in pregnancy.

For breastfeeding: theanine, ashwagandha, and saffron all lack enough safety information — talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Lemon balm has limited safety data; use caution and consult your healthcare provider.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Theanine Ashwagandha Lemon Balm Magnolia Saffron

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 5 of the 5 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Magnolia, Lemon Balm, Saffron, Ashwagandha, Theanine.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 1,431 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, check any blood pressure medications (antihypertensive drugs), sedating drugs including benzodiazepines, diabetes medications, thyroid hormones, immune-suppressing drugs, and medications processed by CYP1A2 enzymes. If you take caffeine supplements or rely heavily on caffeine, mention that too.

The interactions are mostly Moderate severity.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product is designed for people managing everyday stress and supporting sleep and mood. If you take blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, sedating medications, benzodiazepines, thyroid hormones, or immunosuppressants, check your specific medications with the tool below before starting.

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your pharmacist or doctor first.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 5 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 25, 2019.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Stress Support, straight from the product label.

Brand GNC Preventive Nutrition
Net contents 90 Caplet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 25, 2019
DSLD ID 199401
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Other (e.g. Tea Bag)
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Sugar Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
3 Caplet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
3 Caplet(s)
Servings per container
30
IngredientAmount% DV
Suntheanine L-Theanine200 mg--
KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract600 mg--
Lemon Balm extract600 mg--
Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense)250 NP--
affron Saffron extract28 mg--

Other ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, pregelatinized Starch, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Stearic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Silicon Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, Vegetable Acetoglycerides, Polyethylene Glycol, Polysorbate 80, Carmine, Red Cabbage, Titanium Dioxide, Triacetin

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
General Statements

GNC Stress Support features premium, clinically studied ingredients to help you manage everyday stress.

Please recycle this box.

Supports a healthy stress response Features clinically studied ingredients Promotes a sense of relaxation May help you cope with everyday stress

New With clinically studied ingredients Promotes a feeling of relaxation and calm Non-habit-forming Non-drowsy formula

Formula

KSM-66 Ashwagandha Clinically shown to support the body's natural ability to maintain a healthy stress response. Supports healthy cortisol levels. Suntheanine L-Theanine Clinically shown to promote a sense of relaxation and calm. Helps you cope with stress from everyday overwork and fatigue.

Contains: Milk.

Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

Contains: Milk.

Warning: Consult your physician prior to using this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Seals/Symbols

Scientifically Formulated

Gf Gluten Free

General

CODE 101010 ISG

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: As a dietary supplement, take three caplets daily.

Formulation

No Sugar, No Artificial Flavors, No Wheat, Gluten Free, No Soy.

Brand IP Statement(s)

affron is a trademark owned by Pharmactive Biotech Products, SL.

KSM-66 Ashwagandha KSM-66 is the registered trademark of Ixoreal Biomed Inc.

Relora & logo are InterHealth N.I. trademarks.

Suntheanine is a registered trademark of Taiyo International Inc.

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Stress Support label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition

These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size3 Caplet(s) Dosage formOther (e.g. Tea Bag) Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Suntheanine L-Theanine

Interacts with
565 drugs
200 mg per serving

Theanine (usually L-theanine) is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves that many people take to feel calmer and less stressed without strong dro...

Suntheanine L-Theanine monograph & interactions

KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract

Interacts with
1,372 drugs
600 mg per serving

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evid...

KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract monograph & interactions

Lemon Balm extract

Interacts with
264 drugs
600 mg per serving

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold so...

Lemon Balm extract monograph & interactions

Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense)

Interacts with
351 drugs
250 NP per serving Form: Magnolia bark extract, Phellodendron bark extract

Magnolia bark and flower buds have a long history in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, often for stress, sleep, and digestion. Modern human r...

Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense) monograph & interactions

Affron Saffron extract

Interacts with
521 drugs
28 mg per serving

Saffron is a costly spice that has shown promise in early studies for mild-to-moderate depression and some mood and PMS symptoms, but most research us...

Affron Saffron extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, Pregelatinized Starch, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Stearic Acid, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Silicon Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, Vegetable Acetoglycerides, Polyethylene Glycol, Polysorbate 80, Carmine, Red Cabbage, Titanium Dioxide, Triacetin. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Stress Support?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
1,430Drugs
1,008 Moderate 422 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract 1,372
Suntheanine L-Theanine 565
affron Saffron extract 521
Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense) 351
Lemon Balm extract 264

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Stress Support interact with 1,430 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

5 of the 5 ingredients in Stress Support interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract Suntheanine L-Theanine affron Saffron extract Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense) Lemon Balm extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Stress Support with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract10 drug types · 1,372 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
There is preliminary clinical evidence suggesting that ashwagandha might lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research suggests that ashwagandha might lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines.
There is preliminary evidence that ashwagandha might have an additive effect with diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin). This may also occur with other benzodiazepines.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Ashwagandha seems to have sedative effects. Theoretically, this may potentiate the effects of barbiturates, other sedatives, and anxiolytics.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis, liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, autoimmune hepatitis, the need for liver transplantation, and death due to liver failure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Ashwagandha has demonstrated immunostimulant effects in humans. Animal research has shown that ashwagandha can attenuate the immunosuppression caused by cyclophosphamide.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Ashwagandha might increase the effects and adverse effects of thyroid hormone.
Concomitant use of ashwagandha with thyroid hormones may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects. Preliminary clinical research and animal studies suggest that ashwagandha boosts thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. In one clinical study, ashwagandha increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels by 41.5% and 19.6%, respectively, and reduced serum TSH levels by 17.4% from baseline in adults with subclinical hypothyroidism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP3A4 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Some animal studies have reported that ashwagandha can enhance serotonergic transmission by altering certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors. However, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha increases the risk of serotonin-related effects, and there have been no published case reports of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Nevertheless, due to the lack of extensive studies on the matter and the fact that ashwagandha appears to affect serotonergic pathways, it would be prudent to exercise caution when combining it with drugs that affect serotonin. [References: - Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwaga ndha) on Stress and the Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2021 Sep 14; 19: 1468–1495. - A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/]

Likelihood Possible Evidence C
KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract full monograph & interactions

Suntheanine L-Theanine3 drug types · 565 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theanine might lower blood pressure, potentiating the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research shows that theanine can lower blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive animals. Theoretically, concomitant use of theanine and antihypertensive drugs might potentiate the antihypertensive activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, theanine might have additive sedative effects when used in conjunction with CNS depressants. However, it is unclear if this concern is clinically relevant.
Theoretically, theanine may compete with glutamate and/or increase plasma gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, which could cause CNS depression. In one clinical study, some subjects taking oral theanine reported drowsiness.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Clinical studies regarding the effects of L-theanine on serotonin levels are conflicting. Some studies suggest it can increase serotonin levels in the brain while others report that it may decrease them. Nevertheless, there have been no reports of l-theanine being a causative agent in serotonergic-related side effects or serotonin syndrome.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence C
Suntheanine L-Theanine full monograph & interactions

affron Saffron extract4 drug types · 521 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of saffron with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Some clinical research shows that taking saffron extract reduces fasting levels of glucose when used in addition to hypoglycemic agents. However, saffron powder itself has not been shown to reduce fasting glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of saffron with antihypertensive drugs might have additive effects.
Animal and human research suggests that saffron extract can decrease blood pressure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Caffeine

Theoretically, saffron might inhibit the metabolism of caffeine.
A small clinical study suggests that taking saffron powder 300 mg in 150 mL water daily for 5 days and then taking caffeine 200 mg seems to reduce caffeine metabolite levels in the saliva and urine in males, but not females. Theoretically, this may be due to the inhibition of cytochrome P450 1A2 by saffron.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of saffron and CNS depressants might have additive sedative effects.
Clinical research shows that taking saffron extract 60 mg orally daily for 26 weeks can cause drowsiness and sedation. Animal research suggests that adding saffron to hexobarbital further increases sleeping and slows motor activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
affron Saffron extract full monograph & interactions

Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense)2 drug types · 351 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, magnolia might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that the chemicals magnolol and honokiol, isolated from magnolia bark, inhibit platelet aggregation that is experimentally induced by collagen and arachidonic acid. However, they do not inhibit platelet aggregation that is induced by adenosine diphosphate, platelet-activating factor, or thrombin. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of large doses of magnolia bark and CNS depressants might have additive effects.
In vitro and animal research shows that constituents extracted from magnolia bark, especially honokiol and magnolol, have sedative effects. These effects may be due to the inhibition of catecholamine release and modulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid-A (GABA-A) receptors.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Relora Magnolia bark extract (Magnolia officinalis) and Phellodendron bark extract Blend (Phellodendron amurense) full monograph & interactions

Lemon Balm extract2 drug types · 264 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of lemon balm might have additive effects with CNS depressant drugs.
Lemon balm seems to have CNS depressant activity in animals and in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, lemon balm might interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
In vitro, constituents of lemon balm extract bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), preventing TSH receptor-binding and leading to the inhibition of TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. In animals, lemon balm extract has been shown to decrease levels of circulating TSH and inhibit thyroid secretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lemon Balm extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Stress Support, from the product label.

GNC Preventive Nutrition

See all GNC Preventive Nutrition products
Name
General Nutrition Corporation
City
Pittsburgh
State
PA
ZipCode
15222
Phone Number
1-888-462-2548
Web Address
gnc.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition: Common Questions

Does Stress Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Stress Support has a known interaction with 1,430 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Stress Support contains 5 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Will this help me sleep better?
Ashwagandha is possibly effective for insomnia. Theanine supports cognitive function. Both may have sedating effects, which could help with sleep, but the evidence for this product as a whole isn't established in our data. Talk to your pharmacist about whether it's right for your situation.
Can I take this if I'm on blood pressure medication?
Three of the four checked ingredients—theanine, ashwagandha, and saffron—may lower blood pressure and could add to your medication's effect. Check your exact medication with the search tool on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting.
What are the most common side effects?
Theanine may cause headaches, drowsiness, or increased dream activity. Ashwagandha and saffron may cause diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting at some doses, though these are uncommon with typical use. Lemon balm may cause dizziness. Overall, these ingredients are generally well tolerated short-term.
Is it safe to take while pregnant?
No. Ashwagandha is thought to risk miscarriage, so it should be avoided. Theanine and saffron lack enough safety data for pregnancy—the safety information advises against use. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement while pregnant.
Can I take this with my anxiety medication?
It depends on your specific medication. If you take a benzodiazepine (like diazepam or clonazepam), ashwagandha may increase sedation—a Moderate concern. Check your exact medication with the search tool below and speak with your pharmacist before starting.
What's in this that actually does something?
Ashwagandha is possibly effective for stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Lemon balm is possibly effective for stress and depression. Saffron is possibly effective for Alzheimer's disease and nerve pain from chemotherapy. Theanine may help cognitive function. We have no effectiveness data for Relora.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Stress Support is safe with your meds?

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Stress Support label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Stress Support’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Theanine

Interacts with 565 drugs

Theanine (usually L-theanine) is an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves that many people take to feel calmer and less stressed without strong drowsiness. Early research suggests it may...

Read the full Theanine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Ashwagandha

Interacts with 1,372 drugs

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evidence is still limited. It is generally w...

Read the full Ashwagandha monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Lemon Balm

Interacts with 264 drugs

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold sores. Early studies are promising but gen...

Read the full Lemon Balm monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Magnolia

Interacts with 351 drugs

Magnolia bark and flower buds have a long history in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, often for stress, sleep, and digestion. Modern human research is still limited, so we can't be...

Read the full Magnolia monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Saffron

Interacts with 521 drugs

Saffron is a costly spice that has shown promise in early studies for mild-to-moderate depression and some mood and PMS symptoms, but most research uses small trials, so results are not defi...

Read the full Saffron monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Stress Support's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 81 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Theanine 6 references
  1. Yokogoshi H, Kobayashi M. Hypotensive effect of gamma-glutamylethylamide in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Life Sci 1998;62:1065-8.
  2. Haskell, C. F., Kennedy, D. O., Milne, A. L., Wesnes, K. A., and Scholey, A. B. The effects of L-theanine, caffeine and their combination on cognition and mood. Biol.Psychol. 2008;77(2):113-122. PubMed
  3. Yokogoshi, H., Kato, Y., Sagesaka, Y. M., Takihara-Matsuura, T., Kakuda, T., and Takeuchi, N. Reduction effect of theanine on blood pressure and brain 5-hydroxyindoles in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci.Biotechnol.Biochem. 1995;59(4):615-618. PubMed
  4. Lyon MR, Kapoor MP, Juneja LR. The effects of L-theanine (Suntheanine®) on objective sleep quality in boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Altern Med Rev. 2011;16(4):348-
  5. Hidese S, Ota M, Wakabayashi C, et al. Effects of chronic l-theanine administration in patients with major depressive disorder: an open-label study. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2017;29(2):72-9.
  6. Tsuchiya T, Honda H, Oikawa M, et al. Oral administration of the amino acids cystine and theanine attenuates the adverse events of S-1 adjuvant chemotherapy in gastrointestinal cancer patients. Int J Clin Oncol 2016;21(6):1085-90. PubMed

See these in context on the Theanine monograph →

Ashwagandha 32 references
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Lemon Balm 12 references
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  7. Sourgens H, Winterhoff H, Gumbinger HG, et al. Antihormonal effects of plant extracts. TSH- and prolactin-suppressing properties of Lithospermum officinale and other plants. Planta Med. 1982 Jun;45:78-86. DOI
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Magnolia 9 references
  1. Kuribara H, Kishi E, Hattori N, et al. The anxiolytic effect of two oriental herbal drugs in Japan attributed to honokiol from magnolia bark. J Pharm Pharmacol 2000;52:1425-9. PubMed
  2. Tachikawa E, Takahashi M, Kashimoto T. Effects of extract and ingredients isolated from Magnolia obovata thunberg on catecholamine secretion from bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2000;60:433-40. PubMed
  3. Jung KY, Kim DS, Oh SR, et al. Magnone A and B, novel anti-PAF tetrahydrofuran lignans from the flower buds of Magnolia fargesii. J Nat Prod 1998;61:808-11.
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  6. Ghys K, De Palma A, Vandevenne A, Werbrouck J, Goossens A. Magnolia officinalis bark extract, a recently identified contact allergen in 'anti-ageing' cosmetics. Contact Dermatitis. 2015 Aug;73(2):130-2.
  7. Raison-Peyron N, Césaire A, Du-Thanh A, Dereure O. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by Magnolia officinalis bark extract in a facial anti-ageing cream. Contact Dermatitis. 2015 Jun;72(6):416-7.
  8. Nilausen TD, Johansen JD, Thyssen JP. Allergic contact dermatitis of the face caused by Magnolia officinalis bark extract. Contact Dermatitis. 2016;75(6):385-87.
  9. Amat-Samaranch V, López-Sánchez C, Tubau C, Puig L, Serra-Baldrich E. Vulvar allergic contact dermatitis caused by Magnolia officinalis bark extract. Contact Dermatitis 2022;87(1):96-97.

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Saffron 22 references
  1. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
  2. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
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  7. Safarinejad MR, Shafiei N, Safarinejad S. A prospective double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study of the effect of saffron (Crocus sativus Linn.) on semen parameters and seminal plasma antioxidant capacity in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasth
  8. Fatehi, M., Rashidabady, T., and Fatehi-Hassanabad, Z. Effects of Crocus sativus petals' extract on rat blood pressure and on responses induced by electrical field stimulation in the rat isolated vas deferens and guinea-pig ileum. J Ethnopharmacol. 2003; PubMed
  9. Modaghegh, M. H., Shahabian, M., Esmaeili, H. A., Rajbai, O., and Hosseinzadeh, H. Safety evaluation of saffron (Crocus sativus) tablets in healthy volunteers. Phytomedicine. 2008;15(12):1032-1037. PubMed
  10. Imenshahidi, M., Hosseinzadeh, H., and Javadpour, Y. Hypotensive effect of aqueous saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.) and its constituents, safranal and crocin, in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Phytother.Res 12-9-2009;
  11. Zhang, Y., Shoyama, Y., Sugiura, M., and Saito, H. Effects of Crocus sativus L. on the ethanol-induced impairment of passive avoidance performances in mice. Biol.Pharm Bull. 1994;17(2):217-221. PubMed
  12. Wuthrich, B., Schmid-Grendelmeyer, P., and Lundberg, M. Anaphylaxis to saffron. Allergy 1997;52(4):476-477. PubMed
  13. Akhondzadeh S, Sabet MS, Harirchian MH, Togha M, Cheraghmakani H, Razeghi S, Hejazi SSh, Yousefi MH, Alimardani R, Jamshidi A, Zare F, Moradi A. Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a 16-week, randomized and plac
  14. Kashani L, Eslatmanesh S, Saedi N, Niroomand N, Ebrahimi M, Hosseinian M, Foroughifar T, Salimi S, Akhondzadeh S. Comparison of Saffron versus Fluoxetine in Treatment of Mild to Moderate Postpartum Depression: A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial. Ph PubMed
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  17. Safarinejad MR, Shafiei N, Safarinejad S. An open label, randomized, fixed-dose, crossover study comparing efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate and saffron (Crocus sativus Linn.) for treating erectile dysfunction in men naïve to treatment. Int J Impo PubMed
  18. Talaei A, Hassanpour Moghadam M, Sajadi Tabassi SA, Mohajeri SA. Crocin, the main active saffron constituent, as an adjunctive treatment in major depressive disorder: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot clinical trial. J Affect Disord. 2 PubMed
  19. Azimi P, Ghiasvand R Feizi A, Hariri M, Abbasi B. Effects of cinnamon, cardamom, saffron, and ginger consumption on markers of glycemic control, lipid profile, oxidative stress, and inflammation in type 2 diabetes. Rev Diabet Stud. 2014 Fall-Winter;11(3-4
  20. Begas E, Bounitsi M, Kilindris T, et al. Effects of short-term saffron (Crocus sativus L.) intake on the in vivo activities of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes in healthy volunteers. Food Chem Toxicol. 2019;130:32-43. PubMed
  21. Moravej Aleali A, Amani R, Shahbazian H, Namjooyan F, Latifi SM, Cheraghian B. The effect of hydroalcoholic Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract on fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, liver, and renal function tests in patients with type 2 diabet
  22. Abbaszadeh-Mashkani S, Hoque SS, Banafshe HR, Ghaderi A. The effect of crocin (the main active saffron constituent) on the cognitive functions, craving, and withdrawal syndrome in opioid patients under methadone maintenance treatment. Phytother Res. 2021; PubMed

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