Supplement Database
Evidence-graded supplement profiles with dosage guidance, form comparisons, interaction warnings, and clinical citations. No affiliate links. No product sales. Just science.
Magnesium Glycinate
Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.
Magnesium L-Threonate
The only magnesium form shown to cross the blood-brain barrier effectively. Promising for cognitive function and brain aging.
Vitamin D3
Essential hormone precursor. Most people in northern latitudes are deficient. Strong evidence for immunity, bone health, and mood.
Omega-3 Fish Oil
Essential fatty acids with strong evidence for cardiovascular and mental health. EPA-dominant for mood; triglyceride form for absorption.
Creatine Monohydrate
One of the most researched supplements in history. Strong evidence for strength, power, and emerging evidence for brain function.
Ashwagandha
Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.
L-Theanine
Amino acid from green tea. Promotes calm focus (alpha brain waves) without drowsiness. Excellent safety profile.
Rhodiola Rosea
Adaptogenic herb with strong evidence for reducing stress-related fatigue. Comparable to low-dose antidepressants for mild depression.
Lion's Mane
Medicinal mushroom that stimulates NGF. Multiple RCTs show benefits for mild cognitive impairment and mood.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Precursor to glutathione (master antioxidant). Strong evidence for respiratory health, liver support, and psychiatric conditions.
CoQ10 (Ubiquinol)
Critical for mitochondrial energy production. Q-SYMBIO trial showed 43% cardiovascular mortality reduction in heart failure. Depleted by statins.
Zinc
Essential mineral for immune function, wound healing, and testosterone production. Lozenges reduce cold duration by ~33%.
Vitamin K2 (MK-7)
Directs calcium to bones and teeth, away from arteries. Essential when supplementing Vitamin D3.
B-Complex
Group of essential vitamins for energy metabolism, nervous system function, and mood. Methylated forms preferred for MTHFR variants.
Melatonin
Natural sleep hormone. Lower doses (0.3-1mg) are often more effective than high doses. Best for sleep onset and circadian reset.
Berberine
Potent plant alkaloid with metformin-like effects on blood sugar. Also activates AMPK (longevity pathway). Multiple drug interactions.
Curcumin
Potent anti-inflammatory from turmeric. Must enhance bioavailability with piperine or specialized formulations.
Probiotics
Beneficial bacteria for gut health. Strain selection matters — L. rhamnosus GG, B. infantis 35624, and S. boulardii are best-studied.
Vitamin C
Essential antioxidant vitamin. Supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant defense. 50% infection reduction in athletes.
Alpha-GPC
Most bioavailable choline source for the brain. Supports acetylcholine production for memory, focus, and muscle contraction.
Bacopa Monnieri
Ayurvedic herb with strong meta-analytic evidence for memory and learning. Requires consistent use for 8-12 weeks.
Tongkat Ali
Southeast Asian herb with emerging evidence for cortisol reduction and hormonal support.
Boron
Trace mineral that supports calcium metabolism, vitamin D utilization, and potentially testosterone levels.
Selenium
Essential trace mineral for thyroid function (T4→T3 conversion) and antioxidant defense. Reduces Hashimoto's antibodies.
Glycine
Inhibitory amino acid that improves sleep quality by lowering core body temperature. Also supports collagen synthesis.
Taurine
Conditionally essential amino acid. Landmark 2023 Science paper showed it extends healthy lifespan in multiple species.
Citrulline
Converts to arginine and boosts nitric oxide production. Improves exercise performance and blood flow.
Beta-Alanine
Increases muscle carnosine levels, buffering acid during high-intensity exercise. Well-supported for 1-4 min high-intensity efforts.
Phosphatidylserine
Phospholipid that supports cell membrane integrity in the brain. FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive decline. Reduces cortisol.
PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone)
Stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis (creation of new mitochondria). Best paired with CoQ10. Still early research.
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)
NAD+ precursor with multiple human RCTs showing elevated blood NAD+ and improved physical performance. Exciting longevity candidate.
Apigenin
Flavonoid from chamomile. Binds GABA-A receptor for mild sedation and anxiety relief. Also inhibits CD38 (NAD+ preservation).
GABA
The main inhibitory neurotransmitter. PharmaGABA form shows RCT evidence for relaxation and sleep. May work via gut-brain axis.
5-HTP
Direct serotonin precursor. Effective for mood and sleep but DANGEROUS with serotonergic medications.
SAMe
Key methyl donor involved in neurotransmitter synthesis. Cochrane-level evidence for depression, comparable to TCAs.
Iron
Essential for oxygen transport and energy. ONLY supplement if deficient — excess iron is a pro-oxidant. Bisglycinate form preferred.
Calcium
Essential for bone health, but food sources preferred. If supplementing, always pair with Vitamin D3 and K2.
Potassium
Critical electrolyte for heart and muscle function. Most people need more, but get it from food — supplemental doses are limited.
Lutein
Carotenoid concentrated in the retina and brain. Strong evidence for eye health; emerging evidence for cognitive function.
Astaxanthin
Extremely potent antioxidant carotenoid. Promising for skin health and exercise recovery. Still building human evidence.
Sulforaphane
Powerful Nrf2 activator from cruciferous vegetables. Evidence for air pollution detoxification and H. pylori eradication.
Tart Cherry
Natural source of melatonin and anti-inflammatory compounds. Evidence for sleep quality improvement and one of the best supplements for DOMS reduction.
Valerian Root
Traditional sleep herb with moderate RCT support. Comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines. Not acutely sedating — builds over weeks.
Passionflower
Gentle anxiolytic herb comparable to low-dose oxazepam. Effective for pre-surgical anxiety and sleep without next-day impairment.
CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
Bioavailable choline source that also elevates dopamine and acetylcholine. Cognizin form best studied for attention and working memory.
Ginkgo Biloba
Increases cerebral blood flow and has vasodilatory effects. Modest benefit for existing dementia symptoms but does not prevent it.
Phosphatidylcholine
Dietary choline source for acetylcholine synthesis and liver health. Sunflower lecithin is soy-free alternative.
Huperzine A
Potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Effective for memory but narrow therapeutic window — cycling and careful dosing required.
Cordyceps
Medicinal mushroom with RCT evidence for improved VO2 max and exercise tolerance. 3-4g/day for athletic performance.
St. John's Wort
Cochrane-validated antidepressant comparable to SSRIs for mild-moderate depression. CRITICAL: interacts with many drugs via CYP induction.
Saffron
Potent natural antidepressant with multiple RCTs showing comparable efficacy to fluoxetine at just 30mg/day. Also supports eye health.
NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)
NAD+ precursor with strong human RCT evidence for NAD+ elevation. Unique cardiovascular benefits: reduced arterial stiffness and blood pressure.
Resveratrol
SIRT1 activator commonly combined with NMN/NR. Human evidence for metabolic improvement and cognitive support. Lipid-soluble — take with fat.
Quercetin
Versatile flavonoid with senolytic, immune, and anti-inflammatory properties. Zinc ionophore. Phytosome form critical for absorption.
Fisetin
Most potent natural senolytic compound tested. Intermittent "hit-and-run" dosing protocol (2 days/month) for clearing senescent cells.
Spermidine
Autophagy inducer with strong epidemiological link to reduced all-cause mortality. RCT evidence for memory improvement in elderly.
HMB (Beta-Hydroxy Beta-Methylbutyrate)
Leucine metabolite that preserves lean mass and reduces muscle damage. Best for elderly, untrained, or during caloric restriction.
Collagen Peptides
Evidence for connective tissue repair (with vitamin C + exercise), skin elasticity, and joint pain. Timing matters for tendons.
Psyllium Husk
Soluble fiber with FDA-approved health claim for cholesterol reduction. Also effective for blood sugar control and constipation.
Glutamine
Conditionally essential amino acid that is the primary fuel for gut lining cells. RCT evidence for IBS and leaky gut.
Digestive Enzymes
Enzyme supplementation for digestive support. Standard of care for pancreatic insufficiency. Lactase highly effective for lactose intolerance.
Ginger
Excellent evidence for anti-nausea effects (pregnancy, chemotherapy, post-op). Also anti-inflammatory with COX-2 inhibition.
Elderberry
Antiviral berry extract that reduces cold duration by ~2 days and flu by ~4 days. Use standardized syrup, never raw berries.
Beta-Glucan
Dual-purpose supplement: yeast-derived for immune support (250mg), oat-derived for cholesterol (3g). Both well-supported by RCTs.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Ayurvedic adaptogen with evidence for stress reduction and blood glucose stabilization. Gentle daily-use herb.
Reishi
Calming medicinal mushroom with immune-modulating and cancer-fatigue benefits. Best taken evening for sleep support.
Schisandra
Adaptogen with liver-protective properties and military/Olympic athlete research for stress performance. CYP3A4 interactions are significant.
Lemon Balm
Gentle anxiolytic herb that provides calmness without sedation. Pairs well with valerian for sleep. Watch thyroid interactions.
Kava
Cochrane-validated anxiolytic: significant anxiety reduction comparable to benzodiazepines. Use noble cultivar water extracts to minimize liver risk.
Garlic / Allicin
Strong RCT evidence for blood pressure reduction (~8-9/5-6 mmHg) and cold prevention (64% reduction). Aged extract preferred for CV.
Bergamot
Impressive lipid-modifying polyphenol: 30% LDL reduction in RCTs. Natural HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (statin-like mechanism).
Nattokinase
Direct fibrinolytic enzyme from natto. Reduces blood pressure and DVT risk. Use with extreme caution regarding bleeding.
Hawthorn
Cochrane-reviewed for heart failure (NYHA I-II): improves exercise tolerance and symptoms. Modest blood pressure reduction.
Red Yeast Rice
Natural statin alternative with 15-25% LDL reduction. 45% coronary event reduction in large RCT. MUST co-supplement CoQ10.
Vitamin B12
Critical for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. Vegans, elderly, and metformin users are at high risk of deficiency. Methylcobalamin preferred for neurological benefit.
Folate (Vitamin B9)
Essential for DNA synthesis, methylation, and mood regulation. ~40% of people have MTHFR variants reducing conversion — use methylfolate. Always pair with B12.
Myo-Inositol
Naturally occurring sugar alcohol with strong evidence for PCOS, panic disorder, and OCD. Gentle anxiolytic. Very safe at standard doses.
Vitamin B6
Essential coenzyme for neurotransmitter synthesis (serotonin, GABA, dopamine). Strong evidence for PMS. Deficiency common in those on OCP or with poor diet.
Iodine
Essential trace mineral for thyroid hormone synthesis. Critical for metabolic rate and cognitive development. Most people get enough from iodized salt — test before supplementing.
Biotin
Water-soluble B vitamin important for fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Commonly used for hair/nail support — evidence is stronger in true deficiency. Important: stop before lab tests.
L-Carnitine
Amino acid derivative critical for fatty acid transport into mitochondria. ALCAR crosses the blood-brain barrier for cognitive support. Good evidence for exercise performance and male fertility.
Vitamin A
Fat-soluble vitamin essential for immunity, vision, skin, and reproduction. Most people with varied diets are not deficient. Preformed vitamin A is teratogenic at high doses — use beta-carotene in pregnancy.
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
Essential for CoA synthesis (energy metabolism, fat breakdown, hormone production). Deficiency rare but supplement shows promise for acne and stress-related fatigue.
Choline
Essential nutrient for acetylcholine synthesis, liver health, and brain development. 90% of Americans are deficient. Critical during pregnancy. Alpha-GPC or citicoline preferred for cognitive enhancement.
Shilajit
Mineral-rich resin from Himalayan rock. Contains fulvic acid and 80+ trace minerals. Promising evidence for testosterone, mitochondrial function, and cognitive health. Quality and purity are critical.
Maca Root
Peruvian adaptogen with evidence for libido, mood, and energy. Does not directly affect hormones but may modulate endocrine function. Black and red varieties have different benefit profiles.
Black Seed Oil
Widely studied traditional remedy with strong anti-inflammatory properties from thymoquinone. Evidence for metabolic health, immune modulation, and gut health. Oil form preferred for absorption.
Spirulina
Nutrient-dense cyanobacterium with strong evidence for immune support, lipid improvement, and antioxidant protection. Complete protein source. Quality sourcing is critical to avoid contamination.
Chlorella
Green algae rich in chlorophyll, protein, iron, and B12. Evidence for immune support and metabolic markers. Broken-cell wall form required for bioavailability. Complementary to spirulina.
Saw Palmetto
Palm berry extract with evidence for prostate health and DHT reduction. May help with hair loss via 5-alpha reductase inhibition. Standardized extract at 320mg is the well-studied dose.
DIM (Diindolylmethane)
Metabolite of cruciferous vegetables that promotes favorable estrogen metabolism. Shifts estrogen toward less potent metabolites. Research primarily in hormone balance and cancer prevention.
Grape Seed Extract
Rich source of proanthocyanidins (OPCs) with strong antioxidant activity. Evidence for blood pressure reduction, skin protection, and vascular health. Well-tolerated with few side effects.
Pycnogenol
Patented French maritime pine bark extract with 400+ published studies. Evidence for cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and skin aging. Contains procyanidins similar to grape seed extract.
L-Tyrosine
Amino acid precursor to dopamine, norepinephrine, and thyroid hormones. Best evidence is for maintaining cognitive performance under stress, sleep deprivation, and multitasking. Take on empty stomach.
Milk Thistle
Premier liver-support herb with strong evidence for hepatoprotection. Silymarin (active compound) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects on liver cells. Phytosome form preferred.
Turkey Tail Mushroom
Most-studied medicinal mushroom for immune support. PSK/PSP polysaccharides are approved as anticancer adjunct therapy in Japan. Strong evidence for immune modulation and gut microbiome support.
D-Mannose
Natural sugar that prevents E. coli from adhering to urinary tract walls. As effective as low-dose antibiotics for preventing recurrent UTIs with far fewer side effects. Very safe and well-tolerated.
Bromelain
Proteolytic enzyme from pineapple with evidence for reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain. Comparable to NSAIDs in some studies. Must take on empty stomach for systemic effects.
MCT Oil
Rapidly absorbed fats that convert directly to ketones for brain energy. Evidence for cognitive support (especially in mild cognitive impairment) and increased energy expenditure. Start low to avoid GI issues.
Sea Moss
Mineral-rich seaweed popular for its 92-mineral profile. Prebiotic fiber supports gut health. Limited clinical trial evidence despite popularity — most claims extrapolated from nutrient analysis. Iodine content requires caution.
Tongkat Ali (Fadogia Blend)
Popular testosterone-support herb with rising interest but LIMITED human evidence. Animal studies show testosterone increase but also dose-dependent toxicity. Conservative dosing with cycling strongly advised. Tongkat Ali has far more human data.
Turkesterone
Plant-derived ecdysteroid marketed for muscle growth. Ecdysterone (related compound) has one promising human study. Turkesterone itself lacks human clinical trials. Product quality is a major concern in this category.
Stinging Nettle Root
Root extract may increase free testosterone by inhibiting SHBG binding. Evidence for prostate health and urinary symptoms. Root and leaf have different active compounds and uses. Very safe profile.
Lysine
Essential amino acid best known for cold sore (herpes simplex) prevention. Also evidence for anxiety reduction when combined with arginine. Enhances calcium absorption. Vegans are at higher risk of deficiency.
Vitamin E
Fat-soluble antioxidant important for cell membrane protection, immune function, and skin health. Moderate doses (200-400 IU) appear safe and beneficial. High doses (>400 IU) linked to increased mortality risk in meta-analyses. Choose mixed tocopherols and natural forms.
Glucosamine
Building block for cartilage with solid evidence for knee osteoarthritis pain and function. Glucosamine sulfate is the preferred form. Takes weeks to show benefit. Safe long-term with few interactions.
Chondroitin
Major component of cartilage with evidence for osteoarthritis symptom relief. Often combined with glucosamine for synergistic benefit. Pharmaceutical-grade chondroitin sulfate (as used in European studies) may be more effective than many OTC products.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Unique antioxidant active in both water and fat-soluble environments. Evidence for blood sugar regulation, neuropathy, and oxidative stress reduction. The R-form is more bioavailable. Useful for metabolic health and neuroprotection.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
Organic sulfur compound with evidence for joint pain relief in osteoarthritis. Extremely safe with very few interactions. Also used for skin and hair health due to its role in keratin and collagen synthesis. Often stacked with glucosamine and chondroitin.
PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide)
Endogenous fatty acid amide that modulates pain and inflammation via the endocannabinoid system (PPAR-alpha). Strong evidence for chronic pain relief. Exceptionally safe with no known drug interactions of concern. Micronized forms preferred.
Black Cohosh
Traditional herbal remedy primarily used for menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and mood disturbances. Moderate evidence of efficacy. Rare but serious liver toxicity reports warrant caution. Avoid in hormone-sensitive conditions.
Evening Primrose Oil
Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. Used for skin conditions, PMS, and inflammation. Evidence is moderate. Takes weeks to show effects. Avoid with seizure medications.
Hyaluronic Acid (Oral)
Naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan in skin and joint fluid. Oral supplementation shows modest evidence for skin hydration and joint comfort. Very safe but questions remain about oral bioavailability. Low molecular weight forms may be preferrable.
Echinacea
Popular immune-support herb with modest evidence for reducing cold duration and severity when taken early. Species, plant part, and preparation method significantly affect efficacy. Best used acutely rather than continuously. Cycle on/off.
Vitex (Chasteberry)
Well-studied herbal remedy for PMS symptoms, particularly mood changes, breast tenderness, and irritability. Works by modulating dopamine and reducing prolactin. Evidence is solid for PMS but takes 2-3 cycles. Avoid with hormonal medications.
Andrographis
Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine herb with strong evidence for reducing severity and duration of upper respiratory infections. Active compound andrographolide has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Best used acutely at illness onset.
Cranberry Extract
Concentrated source of proanthocyanidins (PACs) that prevent bacterial adhesion to urinary tract walls. Good evidence for preventing recurrent UTIs in women. Extract form (36mg PAC) is more effective and practical than juice. Safe for long-term use.
Omega-7 (Sea Buckthorn Oil)
Rich source of palmitoleic acid (omega-7), a fatty acid that supports mucosal membrane health throughout the body. Emerging evidence for skin, cardiovascular, and GI benefits. Less studied than omega-3 but shows promise for dry eyes, dry mouth, and mucosal support.
Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
Fossilized algae marketed for detox, gut health, and silica content. Virtually no clinical evidence supports popular health claims. Food-grade is safe to ingest in small amounts but offers little proven benefit. Inhalation is dangerous. Better silica sources exist.
Artemisinin
Derived from sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua), the basis of Nobel Prize-winning antimalarial drugs. As a supplement, evidence is limited to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Self-prescribing is risky. Must be cycled. Not a substitute for medical treatment.
Wobenzym (Systemic Enzymes)
Enteric-coated blend of proteolytic enzymes (bromelain, trypsin, rutosid) with evidence for joint pain relief comparable to NSAIDs in some studies. Must be taken on empty stomach for systemic absorption. Generally well tolerated. Avoid near surgery.
Astragalus
Foundational Traditional Chinese Medicine herb with immune-modulating and potential anti-aging properties. Astragalus polysaccharides support immune function, and cycloastragenol may activate telomerase. Mostly preclinical evidence but long traditional use. Avoid with immunosuppressants.
Dong Quai
Traditional Chinese Medicine herb for menstrual and menopausal support, almost always used in combination formulas. Weak evidence as a standalone supplement. Significant blood-thinning properties via coumarins. Photosensitizing. Better studied herbs exist for similar goals.
Olive Leaf Extract
Extract from olive tree leaves rich in oleuropein with evidence for blood pressure reduction, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant effects. Aligns with Mediterranean diet research. May lower blood pressure comparably to some medications. Monitor if on BP meds.
Oregano Oil
Potent antimicrobial herb with broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Active compound carvacrol shows strong in vitro effects. Best used short-term for acute gut or immune challenges. Prolonged use may harm beneficial gut bacteria. Cycle strictly.