Top Supplements to Lower Cortisol, Manage Stress & Boost Energy in 2025

What is Cortisol? Symptoms and Solutions

Cortisol, often called the ‘stress hormone’, is produced by your adrenal glands and plays a vital role in your body’s response to stress (Ref). It helps regulate energy by releasing glucose, supports your immune system, and manages inflammation (Ref).

In short bursts, cortisol is essential for survival, enabling your body to handle immediate challenges. However, when cortisol levels remain elevated due to chronic stress, it can lead to serious health issues.

Prolonged high cortisol levels are linked to anxiety, weight gain, poor sleep, and fatigue. This happens because the hormone disrupts your metabolism, weakens your immune system, and interferes with your sleep-wake cycle.

Over time, these effects can significantly impact your physical and mental well-being.

The good news is that lifestyle changes and natural cortisol reducers, such as adaptogens like ashwagandha and supplements for anxiety and stress, can help normalize cortisol levels. Incorporating the best supplements to reduce cortisol into your routine, alongside stress management techniques, can restore balance and improve your overall health.

Dr. Mark Hyman, Functional Medicine Expert, says that “Cortisol management is crucial for overall well-being. Adaptogens like ashwagandha have been shown to effectively reduce stress and balance cortisol levels, improving energy, focus, and mood.”

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Did You Know?

• Cortisol peaks 30 minutes after waking up and drops throughout the day.
• It fuels the fight-or-flight response by releasing glucose.
• Chronic high cortisol can weaken bones and suppress immunity.
• Almost every cell in the body has cortisol receptors.
• Stress eating is linked to cortisol, causing cravings for sugary foods.

Comparison Table

	Ashwagandha Extra Strength Formula	Greens Blend	Anxiety Shield	Cortisol Manager	Relacore Extra
Third-party tested	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	-
Highlights	Organic, includes black pepper for absorption, supports stress relief	Combines adaptogens and superfoods, boosts energy, supports digestion	Adaptogenic herbs, promotes relaxation, enhances mental clarity	Sensoril® Ashwagandha, promotes restful sleep, balances cortisol	Targets stress-related belly fat, includes immune-supporting vitamins
Customer Rating	4.8/5	4.8/5	4.8/5	4/5	4.2/5
Return Policy	60-day money-back guarantee	60-day money-back guarantee	60-day money-back guarantee	-	Free returns on U.S. orders/td>
Shipping	Free shipping on orders over $100	Free shipping on orders over $100	Free shipping on orders over $100	Expedited shipping available	Free shipping on all U.S. orders

How Each Supplement Works: Science and Benefits

Cortisol is your body’s internal alarm system, designed to help you respond to stress. However, when this alarm stays on for too long, it can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and even weight gain.

Supplements like ashwagandha, magnesium, and L-theanine work by calming the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates cortisol production.

For example, ashwagandha, an adaptogen, has been shown in studies to reduce cortisol levels by up to 33% by helping the body adapt to stress (Ref). Similarly, magnesium supports adrenal health and helps prevent the overactivation of stress responses (Ref).

These supplements also modulate neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin, which promote relaxation and improve mood. L-theanine, found in green tea, has been shown in a 2021 study to reduce cortisol within hours by calming the nervous system (Ref).

By addressing the root causes of stress, these supplements not only lower cortisol but also enhance overall well-being.

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How to Use Cortisol Supplements Correctly

Start your day with adaptogens like ashwagandha or Rhodiola rosea, which can be taken in capsule form or added to smoothies for a natural cortisol reducer.

Supplements like magnesium or L-theanine are best taken in the evening to promote relaxation and restful sleep.

Always follow the recommended dosage on the label and pair these supplements with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindfulness practices to maximize their benefits. For personalized advice, consult a healthcare provider to ensure these supplements align with your health goals.

Tips for Safer, Faster Results

To get the most from your liquid B12:

• Identify Your Goals: For stress and anxiety, adaptogens like ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea are excellent natural cortisol reducers. If sleep is your priority, supplements like L-theanine or magnesium can help you unwind while supporting cortisol balance.

ALSO READ: Which Magnesium Is Best For Anxiety and Sleep?

• Check the Ingredients: Look for clinically-backed ingredients like Sensoril® Ashwagandha, L-theanine, or Rhodiola. These are among the best supplements to reduce cortisol, with proven benefits in regulating the HPA axis and promoting relaxation. Avoid products with unnecessary fillers or artificial additives.
• Consider Your Lifestyle: If you prefer convenience, capsules or tablets may be the best cortisol supplement for you. For those who enjoy flexibility, powders that can be added to smoothies or teas are a great option. Choose a form that fits seamlessly into your daily routine.
• Look for Third-Party Testing: To ensure safety and efficacy, opt for supplements to reduce cortisol that are third-party tested. This guarantees the product meets quality standards and contains what it claims.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Everyone’s body responds differently to supplements. If you’re unsure which natural cortisol reducers are right for you, consult a healthcare provider. They can recommend the best supplement to lower cortisol based on your health history and needs.

Other Natural Ways to Lower Cortisol

• Exercise Regularly: Activities like yoga, walking, or moderate-intensity workouts help regulate cortisol by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
• Adopt a Balanced Diet: A whole-food, plant-based diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables stabilizes blood sugar and reduces inflammation, both of which are linked to lower cortisol levels.
• Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling are powerful natural cortisol reducers. These practices calm the HPA axis, helping you manage stress naturally (Ref).
• Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night. A consistent sleep schedule and limiting caffeine can significantly reduce cortisol levels.

ALSO READ: How to Lower Cortisol Levels?

Are Cortisol Supplements Safe?

Cortisol-lowering supplements, including adaptogens like ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea, are generally considered safe for short-term use when taken as directed.

However, mild side effects such as nausea, drowsiness, or digestive discomfort can occur, and certain supplements may interact with medications or affect conditions like thyroid function.

Long-term safety data are limited, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any regimen, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or managing chronic conditions. Choose high-quality, third-party-tested products.

How Long Do Cortisol Supplements Take to Work?

The time it takes for cortisol-lowering supplements to show results can vary depending on the individual and the supplement used.

Adaptogens for cortisol, like ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea, often begin to reduce stress and cortisol levels within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use. Supplements and vitamins for stress and anxiety, such as L-theanine or magnesium, may offer quicker, short-term relief, sometimes within hours or days.

For the best results, combine these natural cortisol reducers with lifestyle changes like mindfulness and a balanced diet to manage stress naturally and effectively.

ALSO READ: Adaptogens: Natural Stress Relievers

Real People. Real Results.

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I feel more relaxed and focused than ever! Ashwagandha has helped me manage stress and stay calm throughout my busy days. – Kaitlin C., 45-54

I’ve been using it for a month and my energy levels have skyrocketed! It’s the best supplement for reducing stress and improving my mood. – Eric T., 35-44

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Signs Your Cortisol Is Back in Balance

When cortisol levels are balanced, you’ll notice improvements in both physical and mental well-being. Common signs include;

• Steady energy levels throughout the day
• Better sleep quality
• Reduced feelings of stress or anxiety.

Physically, you may experience;

• Stable blood pressure
• Improved digestion
• A stronger immune system

Mentally, balanced cortisol often leads to better focus, emotional stability, and an overall sense of calm. Combining cortisol-lowering supplements, natural cortisol reducers, and lifestyle changes like mindfulness and exercise can help maintain this equilibrium.

Buyers Checklist

• Identify your stress management goals (e.g., better sleep, reduced anxiety).
• Research natural cortisol reducers like adaptogens for cortisol.
• Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
• Choose third-party-tested, high-quality products.
• Follow recommended dosages on the label.
• Combine supplements with lifestyle changes like mindfulness and exercise.