5-HTP
Direct precursor to serotonin extracted from African black bean seeds (Griffonia simplicifolia). Bypasses the rate-limiting step in serotonin production, making it more potent than tryptophan for…
Condition-specific supplement research, objectively rated
We review the evidence behind supplements for specific health conditions. Every supplement gets objective ratings — including those with weak evidence.
Acetyl-L-carnitine
Brain-penetrating form of L-carnitine that supports neuronal mitochondria. Multiple clinical trials show modest but consistent benefits for age-related cognitive decline, depression, and neuropathy.
Aged garlic extract
Garlic's sophisticated cousin, aged for 20 months to convert harsh allicin into gentler, more stable compounds like S-allyl cysteine. Kyolic brand dominates the research with impressive studies on…
AKG
Alpha-ketoglutarate is a key metabolic intermediate that gained attention after animal studies showed dramatic lifespan extension. A controversial human trial suggested biological age reversal, but…
Algal DHA/EPA
Plant-based DHA and EPA sourced directly from microalgae — the same source fish get their omega-3s from. Offers all the cardiovascular and brain benefits of fish oil without the fishy taste, ocean…
Alpha-GPC
Most bioavailable choline source for brain acetylcholine synthesis. Used as a prescription cognitive drug in Europe (Gliatilin). Rapidly crosses blood-brain barrier and shows quick onset compared to…
Alpha-lipoic acid
Universal antioxidant that works in both water and fat environments throughout the body. Strongest evidence for diabetic nerve pain (neuropathy) and blood sugar support, with the R-form being more…
Apigenin
A flavonoid compound extracted from chamomile that binds to the same brain receptors as anti-anxiety medications, creating mild sedative effects. Popularized by neuroscientist Andrew Huberman for…
AREDS2 formula
The scientifically validated combination of vitamins and minerals proven to slow AMD progression by 25%. Represents the gold standard for evidence-based eye health supplementation.
Artichoke extract
Mediterranean liver and digestive tonic containing cynarin and chlorogenic acid. Clinical trials show modest but consistent benefits for cholesterol reduction and liver enzyme improvement, with…
Ashwagandha
Ancient Ayurvedic adaptogen with modern clinical validation for stress, sleep, and cognitive function. KSM-66 and Sensoril extracts show consistent cortisol reduction and sleep quality improvements…
Astaxanthin
Potent carotenoid antioxidant from microalgae that gives salmon their pink color and crosses both blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers. Estimated to be thousands of times stronger than vitamin C in…
Astragalus
Ancient Chinese immune tonic with emerging research on telomere support and longevity. Contains unique polysaccharides and saponins that may enhance immune function and cellular aging processes.
B-Complex
Comprehensive blend of all eight B vitamins supporting cellular energy production, nervous system function, and methylation pathways. Quality varies dramatically between brands — look for active forms…
Bacopa monnieri
Ancient Ayurvedic memory herb with over 3,000 years of traditional use, now validated by modern RCTs for learning and memory consolidation. Requires 8-12 weeks of consistent use but shows reliable…
Beetroot
Rich in dietary nitrates that convert to nitric oxide, providing one of the most reliable ways to naturally lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance. Multiple meta-analyses show 3-5 mmHg…
Berberine
A golden alkaloid from plants like goldenseal and barberry that activates AMPK—the same cellular pathway targeted by metformin. Clinical studies show impressive glucose and lipid improvements rivaling…
Beta-Alanine
A non-essential amino acid that increases muscle carnosine levels, improving performance in high-intensity exercise lasting 1-4 minutes. Well-researched with consistent benefits. Causes harmless…
Beta-carotene
Orange-colored carotenoid that converts to vitamin A as needed, making it safer than preformed vitamin A supplements. Originally included in the AREDS eye formula but removed from AREDS2 after studies…
Beta-glucan
Soluble fiber powerhouse from oats, barley, and yeast that's earned FDA approval for cholesterol reduction. This viscous fiber forms gels in your digestive tract, trapping cholesterol and slowing…
Bilberry
European blueberry relative containing concentrated anthocyanins that became famous for supposedly improving RAF pilot night vision during WWII. While that story is mostly myth, bilberry does have…
Biotin (B7)
An essential B vitamin crucial for metabolism and gene regulation. Widely marketed for hair, skin, and nail health, though deficiency is rare in healthy adults. High doses may interfere with lab…
Black Seed Oil
Traditional Middle Eastern remedy from Nigella sativa seeds with emerging research for metabolic health and inflammation. Rich in thymoquinone, the primary bioactive compound. Often called 'the remedy…
Boron
Essential trace mineral involved in bone metabolism, hormone regulation, and brain function. Required in tiny amounts but deficiency may affect testosterone levels and bone density. Found naturally in…
Boswellia
Potent anti-inflammatory resin from Indian frankincense tree. Clinical evidence shows significant benefits for osteoarthritis pain and joint function through unique 5-LOX enzyme inhibition.
BPC-157
A synthetic peptide derived from human gastric juice showing promise for tissue repair and gut healing in animal studies. Popular in biohacker circles despite lack of human clinical trials. Regulatory…
Bromelain
Proteolytic enzyme complex from pineapple stems and fruit with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Clinically studied for sinusitis, wound healing, and digestive support.
Butyrate
Short-chain fatty acid supplement that bypasses gut bacteria to directly provide butyrate — a key fuel for colon cells and anti-inflammatory compound. Available as sodium butyrate or tributyrin, with…
Calcium
Essential bone-building mineral that's become controversial for cardiovascular safety when taken as isolated supplements. Meta-analyses suggest increased heart attack risk with high-dose calcium…
Carnosine
Naturally occurring dipeptide concentrated in muscle and brain tissue that declines with aging. Functions as an intracellular buffer and potent anti-glycation agent, protecting against sugar-protein…
Casein Protein
Slow-digesting protein derived from milk that provides sustained amino acid release for 6-8 hours. Popular pre-bedtime supplement for muscle recovery and potentially better sleep quality through…
CBD
Non-psychoactive hemp-derived cannabinoid with emerging clinical evidence for anxiety-related sleep issues. Popular among consumers but clinical data lags behind adoption, with significant drug…
Chamomile
Traditional daisy-family herb containing apigenin, a compound that binds GABA receptors for gentle calming effects. Modest research shows mild sleep improvements, primarily in elderly populations.
Chlorella
Nutrient-dense freshwater algae packed with chlorophyll, protein, and vitamins. Popular for detox support and immune function, though evidence remains mixed. Requires broken cell wall processing for…
Choline
Essential nutrient crucial for brain function, liver health, and cellular membrane integrity. Often deficient in modern diets, particularly important during pregnancy and for cognitive support in…
Chondroitin
A cartilage component commonly paired with glucosamine for joint health. Research shows modest benefits for knee osteoarthritis pain, though results are mixed. Most effective when combined with…
Chromium
Essential trace mineral that enhances insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. Most effective in people with diabetes or chromium deficiency, with modest benefits for blood sugar control in healthy…
Cinnamon
Common kitchen spice with modest but consistent blood sugar-lowering properties. Ceylon ("true") cinnamon is preferred over cassia varieties due to lower coumarin content and better safety profile for…
Citicoline
Naturally occurring brain compound that uniquely provides both choline and cytidine, supporting cell membrane synthesis and neurotransmitter production. One of the better-studied nootropics with solid…
Collagen
Structural protein supplement claiming to support skin elasticity, joint health, and gut integrity. Broken down into peptides for better absorption, though evidence for systemic benefits remains…
Colostrum
First milk produced after birth, rich in immunoglobulins, growth factors, and bioactive compounds. Shows promise for gut barrier function, immune support, and exercise recovery. Quality varies…
Copper
Essential trace mineral included in AREDS2 formula specifically to prevent copper deficiency from high-dose zinc. Most people get adequate copper from diet and shouldn't supplement alone.
CoQ10
The cellular powerhouse behind energy production, naturally declining after age 30 and severely depleted by statin drugs. Ubiquinol is the active form with superior absorption. The Q-SYMBIO heart…
Cordyceps
Traditional Chinese medicinal mushroom now cultivated as Cordyceps militaris to replace the rare wild species. Prized for energy and kidney support, with emerging evidence for exercise performance and…
Cranberry
Standardized cranberry extract concentrated for proanthocyanidins (PACs) that prevent bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract. Cochrane reviews consistently support its use for UTI prevention in…
Creatine
The world's most researched supplement, now showing compelling cognitive benefits beyond its famous muscle effects. Particularly effective for sleep-deprived cognition and may especially benefit…
Curcumin
The golden anti-inflammatory compound from turmeric that's one of nature's most researched molecules. Poor absorption requires enhanced formulations, but properly formulated curcumin shows promise for…
D-Chiro-Inositol
A stereoisomer of inositol that acts as a secondary messenger in insulin signaling pathways. Most effective when combined with myo-inositol in a 40:1 ratio for PCOS and metabolic syndrome. Research…
D-Mannose
A simple sugar that blocks E. coli bacteria from sticking to urinary tract walls, offering a non-antibiotic approach to UTI prevention. Multiple clinical trials show it works as well as low-dose…
Dandelion
Common 'weed' with a long folk history for liver and kidney support. Root extracts target liver/digestive function while leaf preparations act as natural diuretics, but clinical evidence remains quite…
DHEA
A hormone precursor naturally produced by the adrenal glands that declines with age. Often supplemented for hormonal balance, cognitive function, and anti-aging effects, though evidence is mixed.
Digestive Enzymes
Supplemental enzymes that help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Used to support digestion in those with enzyme deficiencies or digestive complaints. Formulations vary widely in enzyme…
Dihydroberberine
Advanced bioavailable form of berberine with significantly improved absorption and reduced gastrointestinal side effects. Offers the same metabolic benefits as regular berberine but at lower doses due…
DIM
Compound formed when cruciferous vegetables are digested, known for supporting healthy estrogen metabolism. May help balance hormone levels by promoting beneficial estrogen metabolites over…
Echinacea
Traditional Native American immune herb widely used for cold prevention and recovery. Multiple species contain different active compounds including alkylamides and polysaccharides. Research shows…
Elderberry
A traditional immune-supporting botanical with modern research backing. Several studies show elderberry extracts may reduce duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms when taken at onset.
Electrolytes
Balanced combinations of sodium, potassium, and magnesium designed to support hydration, athletic performance, and cellular function. Popular among athletes, keto dieters, and those with high sweat…
Evening Primrose Oil
Plant-derived oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), traditionally used for hormonal balance and skin health. Popular for PMS symptoms and inflammatory skin conditions, though research quality…
Fadogia Agrestis
A Nigerian shrub traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, popularized by Andrew Huberman for testosterone support. Limited animal studies show testosterone increases, but no human trials exist. Potential…
Fenugreek
Versatile herb traditionally used for blood sugar control, testosterone support, and lactation. Multiple bioactive compounds including 4-hydroxyisoleucine and saponins. Different extracts target…
Fish oil
The most extensively studied supplement, providing essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA that the body cannot produce. Proven cardiovascular benefits with strong evidence for triglyceride…
Flaxseed / Flax Oil
Plant-based source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA omega-3) and lignans with cardiovascular and hormonal benefits. Available as whole seeds, ground meal, or oil, each offering different nutritional…
Folate
Essential B vitamin in its active methylfolate (5-MTHF) form, critical for DNA synthesis, methylation, and brain function. Preferred over synthetic folic acid for those with MTHFR gene variants, which…
Forskolin
Extract from the Indian coleus plant, heavily marketed for weight loss but with limited human evidence. Shows some interesting metabolic effects in small studies, though most dramatic results come…
GABA
The brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. Oral supplementation is controversial — debate over whether it crosses the blood-brain barrier. Some evidence for stress reduction and sleep onset.
Garcinia Cambogia
Tropical fruit extract heavily marketed for weight loss due to its hydroxycitric acid content. Despite massive popularity, clinical evidence shows minimal weight loss effects. Generally well-tolerated…
Garlic
The classic kitchen staple turned cardiovascular supplement. When crushed, garlic releases allicin—the pungent compound behind its modest but consistent blood pressure lowering effects. Evidence shows…
Ginger
Traditional anti-nausea spice with solid clinical validation for blood sugar control, inflammation, and digestive issues. Natural gingerols provide the therapeutic punch — standardized extracts…
Ginkgo biloba
The most-studied supplement specifically for tinnitus. Improves cochlear blood flow. Cochrane review found mixed evidence, but European trials show benefit with standardized EGb 761 extract. Widely…
Ginseng (Panax)
The classic adaptogenic herb prized for thousands of years in traditional medicine. Standardized extracts show promise for cognitive function, energy, and immune support, though effects are often…
Glucomannan
Ultra-absorbent fiber from konjac root that swells to 50x its weight in water, creating powerful satiety effects. EU-approved weight loss claim at 3g daily, with modest but consistent benefits for…
Glucosamine
Amino sugar supplement claiming to support cartilage health and reduce joint pain. Large, long-term studies show mixed results, with some evidence for knee osteoarthritis but questionable benefits for…
Glutamine
Most abundant amino acid in the body, critical for gut lining integrity and immune function. Becomes conditionally essential during stress, illness, or intense training when body needs exceed…
Glutathione
The body's master antioxidant, crucial for detoxification and cellular protection. Liposomal forms show better absorption than basic capsules. Works synergistically with NAC and other antioxidant…
Glycine
The simplest amino acid. Building block for collagen, glutathione, creatine, and inhibitory neurotransmitters. At 3g bedtime doses, lowers core body temperature and promotes NREM sleep quality.
Grape Seed Extract
Concentrated polyphenols from grape seeds, rich in OPCs (oligomeric proanthocyanidins). Shows promise for cardiovascular health and circulation, with modest blood pressure benefits in some studies.
Green Coffee Bean
Unroasted coffee bean extract rich in chlorogenic acid, marketed for weight loss and metabolic benefits. Shows modest effects in some studies but evidence quality is mixed. Generally safe but benefits…
Green tea extract
Concentrated catechin from green tea that boosts metabolic rate and provides antioxidant protection. While promising for weight management and neuroprotection, high-dose supplements carry liver injury…
Hawthorn
Traditional European heart herb with solid clinical evidence for mild heart failure. Improves cardiac function and exercise tolerance through flavonoid compounds that strengthen heart contractions.
HMB
Metabolite of the amino acid leucine that helps preserve muscle mass and reduce muscle breakdown, especially during aging, illness, or periods of reduced activity. Particularly valuable for preventing…
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Revered adaptogenic herb in Ayurvedic medicine for stress management and metabolic support. Research shows promise for cortisol regulation, blood sugar control, and inflammation reduction. Popular…
Huperzine A
Potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor derived from Chinese club moss that works similarly to prescription Alzheimer's drugs like Aricept. Multiple Chinese clinical trials show cognitive benefits, but…
Hyaluronic Acid
A naturally occurring molecule that retains water in tissues. Oral supplements aim to support joint fluid, skin hydration, and tissue health. Research on oral bioavailability and systemic effects is…
Iodine
Essential mineral exclusively used to make thyroid hormones. Deficiency devastates cognitive development in children, but most adults in developed countries get adequate amounts from iodized salt and…
Iron
Essential mineral for oxygen transport and energy production. Deficiency causes devastating fatigue and cognitive impairment, especially in women. Never supplement without confirmed deficiency — iron…
Kava
Traditional Pacific ceremonial plant with clinically proven anti-anxiety effects. Unique kavalactones produce calm without drowsiness, but liver safety concerns require careful consideration.
L-Arginine
Semi-essential amino acid that serves as the primary precursor to nitric oxide, supporting blood flow and vascular function. Often used for cardiovascular health and exercise performance, though…
L-Carnitine
Amino acid derivative that shuttles fatty acids into mitochondria for cellular energy production. Strong evidence for heart health post-heart attack, with modest benefits for heart failure and angina.
L-Citrulline
An amino acid that converts to L-arginine and then to nitric oxide, providing a more effective way to boost arginine levels than taking arginine directly due to superior oral bioavailability. Supports…
L-Theanine
Amino acid found naturally in green tea. Promotes alpha brain wave activity associated with calm alertness. Reduces anxiety without sedation. May help tinnitus via stress/anxiety reduction pathway.
L-Tyrosine
An amino acid that supports dopamine and norepinephrine production under stress. Popular nootropic for maintaining cognitive performance during demanding situations. Works best when neurotransmitter…
Lavender (oral)
Standardized oral lavender oil (Silexan) with clinical evidence matching prescription anxiolytics. Multiple RCTs demonstrate calming effects comparable to low-dose lorazepam, with secondary sleep…
Lecithin
Mixture of phospholipids extracted from soybeans or sunflowers, providing choline and membrane-building compounds. Widely used as a food emulsifier and supplement for liver and brain support, though…
Lemon balm
Mint-family herb that increases GABA availability by inhibiting its breakdown enzyme. European studies show modest anxiety and sleep benefits, often combined with valerian in traditional preparations.
Lion's mane
Medicinal mushroom containing unique compounds that stimulate nerve growth factor production — one of the few natural substances shown to promote brain cell regeneration. Clinical trials demonstrate…
Lipo-Flavonoid
Heavily marketed specifically for tinnitus. Contains bioflavonoids and B vitamins. Despite ubiquitous advertising, clinical evidence for tinnitus relief is minimal. One small, older trial cited by the…
Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Carotenoid pigments that accumulate in the macula and lens, forming the only dietary defense against blue light damage. AREDS2 trial validated their protective role in age-related macular…
Lycopene
A powerful carotenoid antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. Research suggests potential benefits for prostate health and cardiovascular protection. Better absorbed from cooked tomatoes or…
Lysine
Essential amino acid crucial for protein synthesis, collagen formation, and immune function. Most famous for reducing cold sore outbreaks by interfering with herpes virus replication. Also supports…
Maca
A nutrient-dense root vegetable from the Peruvian Andes, traditionally used for energy and fertility. Popular for its potential libido-enhancing and hormone-balancing effects in both men and women.
Magnesium
Essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, from energy production to muscle function. Available in multiple forms with different absorption rates and specific benefits: glycinate for…
Magnesium glycinate
The most bioavailable form of magnesium for sleep and relaxation. Glycine itself has calming properties. US Army studies showed magnesium reduced noise-induced hearing damage. Addresses widespread…
Magnesium Threonate
Patented form of magnesium designed specifically for brain penetration and cognitive enhancement. Developed at MIT, it's the only magnesium compound shown to significantly increase brain magnesium…
Manganese
Essential trace mineral serving as cofactor for enzymes involved in bone formation, wound healing, and antioxidant defense. Required for collagen synthesis and cartilage development. Often included in…
MCT Oil
Rapidly absorbed fats that bypass normal digestion to provide quick energy. Popular in ketogenic diets for sustained mental clarity and metabolic support. Derived primarily from coconut oil.
Melatonin
Endogenous hormone regulating circadian rhythm. Specifically studied for tinnitus-related sleep disruption, with some evidence for reducing tinnitus perception itself. One of the most evidence-backed…
Milk Protein (Lactoferrin)
Iron-binding protein naturally found in milk and other secretions with immune-supporting and antimicrobial properties. Growing research on gut health, iron absorption, and immune function. Generally…
Milk thistle
The gold standard liver-protective botanical, containing silymarin — a potent flavonolignan complex. Backed by decades of research showing modest but consistent benefits for liver enzyme levels and…
Moringa
Fast-growing tree whose leaves are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Traditional medicine treasure gaining modern recognition for blood sugar support and anti-inflammatory properties.…
MSM
An organic sulfur compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Popular for joint pain and exercise recovery, though human research is limited. Often combined with glucosamine and chondroitin in joint…
Mucuna Pruriens
Tropical legume naturally rich in L-DOPA, the direct precursor to dopamine. Used in Parkinson's research and traditionally for mood, libido, and vitality, though human evidence remains limited.
Multivitamin
Broad-spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement designed to fill nutritional gaps. Evidence for healthy adults is mixed, though they may benefit those with dietary restrictions or specific deficiencies.
Myo-inositol
A carbocyclic sugar naturally found in fruits and grains that plays crucial roles in insulin signaling and cell membrane function. Exceptionally well-researched for PCOS and metabolic health, with…
N-Acetyl homotaurine
Neuromodulatory compound that blocks excitatory brain signals (NMDA) while enhancing calming ones (GABA). The prescription form acamprosate treats alcohol dependence, while OTC homotaurine is studied…
NAC
Precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. Originally a mucolytic drug, now used for liver protection (acetaminophen overdose antidote), respiratory health, and cochlear protection. One…
Nattokinase
Fibrinolytic enzyme from Japanese fermented soybeans (natto). Meta-analysis of RCTs shows significant blood pressure reduction. Also studied for atherosclerosis progression and fibrin clot…
Niacin
Vitamin B3 in its nicotinic acid form, the most potent HDL-raising supplement available. Once widely used for cardiovascular disease prevention, but recent trials like AIM-HIGH questioned whether HDL…
Nicotinamide riboside
Premium form of vitamin B3 that effectively raises NAD+ levels without niacin flushing. NAD+ declines with aging and is crucial for cellular energy and DNA repair, but whether supplemental NAD+…
NMN
NAD+ precursor molecule competing with NR for the longevity spotlight, popularized by Harvard's David Sinclair. University of Washington trial showed improved muscle insulin sensitivity in prediabetic…
Olive Leaf Extract
Traditional Mediterranean remedy from olive tree leaves, standardized for oleuropein content. Research suggests modest blood pressure benefits and potential immune system support, though evidence…
Olive polyphenols
Heart-protective compounds from olive leaves and extra virgin olive oil, including hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein. The European Food Safety Authority has approved health claims for LDL cholesterol…
Pantothenic Acid (B5)
Essential B vitamin crucial for energy metabolism and hormone synthesis. Found abundantly in foods, but supplementation may benefit stress response and skin health. Generally safe with minimal side…
Passionflower
Climbing vine extract with impressive head-to-head research showing comparable anxiety relief to prescription oxazepam but with fewer side effects. GABA-modulating compounds provide gentle but…
Phosphatidylcholine
Major phospholipid component of cell membranes and primary source of choline for neurotransmitter synthesis. Polyenylphosphatidylcholine (PPC) form shows promise for liver membrane repair in alcoholic…
Phosphatidylserine
Essential phospholipid comprising 15% of brain cell membranes, supporting memory formation and cortisol regulation. Has FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive function — one of the few supplements…
Pine Bark (Pycnogenol)
Premium extract from French maritime pine bark, rich in proanthocyanidins. Well-researched for circulation, ADHD symptoms, and skin health, though expensive due to patented Pycnogenol brand.
Plant sterols
Naturally occurring compounds in plants that physically block cholesterol absorption in the intestines. One of only a handful of supplements with an FDA-approved health claim for reducing heart…
Pomegranate extract
Food-derived antioxidant powerhouse containing punicalagins that gut bacteria convert to urolithin A, a compound that activates cellular cleanup (mitophagy). Meta-analyses show modest but consistent…
Potassium
Essential mineral that most Americans under-consume. Critical for blood pressure regulation, heart rhythm, and kidney function. OTC supplements limited to 99mg per pill due to FDA safety regulations —…
PQQ
Novel micronutrient that stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis — the actual creation of new cellular powerhouses. Found in trace amounts in foods like kiwi and green tea, PQQ represents an intriguing…
Prebiotics
Non-digestible fibers like inulin and FOS that feed your beneficial gut bacteria. Think of them as fertilizer for your microbiome — they help good bacteria flourish and produce beneficial compounds…
Probiotics
Live beneficial bacteria that colonize your gut microbiome. Effects are completely strain-specific — Lactobacillus acidophilus does different things than Bifidobacterium longum. Quality control is…
Psyllium husk
Soluble fiber powerhouse from plantago seeds with FDA-approved heart health claims. Consistently lowers cholesterol 5-10% and smooths blood sugar spikes through proven mechanisms backed by dozens of…
Quercetin
Anti-inflammatory flavonoid from onions and apples with emerging senolytic properties. Poor absorption limits benefits unless taken as phytosome form or with bromelain.
Red yeast rice
Fermented rice containing monacolin K, which is chemically identical to the statin lovastatin. Effective for cholesterol reduction but controversial due to variable potency between products and…
Reishi
Known as the "mushroom of immortality" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reishi contains triterpenes and beta-glucans that may promote relaxation and immune balance. Often called "nature's Xanax" for…
Resveratrol
The famous polyphenol from red wine that activates longevity pathways in cells. While animal studies showed dramatic life extension, human benefits are modest and mainly cardiovascular.
Rhodiola Rosea
An adaptogenic herb from Arctic regions traditionally used to combat fatigue and stress. Popular among biohackers for its potential to improve mental performance, reduce burnout, and enhance physical…
Riboflavin
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is essential for energy production and acts as an antioxidant cofactor. It's most famous for preventing migraines at high doses (400mg daily), though this use is off-label.…
Saffron
The world's most expensive spice by weight, with surprisingly robust clinical evidence for depression and emerging promise for macular degeneration. Multiple well-designed RCTs show antidepressant…
SAMe
Universal methyl donor involved in 200+ metabolic reactions, serving as a prescription drug in Europe for depression and liver disease. Effectively supports methylation pathways, cartilage repair, and…
Saw Palmetto
A palm berry extract traditionally used for prostate health and urinary symptoms. Multiple studies show modest benefits for enlarged prostate, though results vary. Most popular men's health supplement…
Schisandra
The "five-flavor berry" of Traditional Chinese Medicine, containing unique lignans called schisandrins with proven liver-protective properties. Multiple human trials show reduced liver enzymes, making…
Selenium
Essential trace mineral that powers antioxidant enzymes and thyroid function. Critical for glutathione production, but has a narrow therapeutic window — too little or too much both cause problems.
Shilajit
Ancient mineral-rich substance found in Himalayan rocks, composed primarily of fulvic acid and trace minerals. Popular in biohacking circles for energy and testosterone support, with growing research…
Spirulina
Nutrient-dense blue-green microalgae containing complete protein, B vitamins, iron, and phycocyanin — a unique blue pigment with anti-inflammatory properties. Meta-analyses show modest improvements in…
St. John's Wort
Europe's most prescribed antidepressant with robust clinical evidence for mild-to-moderate depression. Comparable efficacy to SSRIs but notorious for numerous drug interactions through liver enzyme…
Stinging Nettle
Traditional European herb with centuries of use for prostate health and seasonal allergies. Modern research supports its anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for urinary symptoms.…
Sulforaphane
The most potent natural activator of Nrf2, the master cellular defense system. Derived from broccoli sprouts, it upregulates hundreds of protective genes involved in detoxification and antioxidant…
Synbiotics
Combination supplements containing both probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (their food source) designed to improve gut colonization. The prebiotic component theoretically feeds the…
Taurine
Conditionally essential amino acid abundant in brain, heart, and muscle. 2023 Science paper showed lifespan extension across multiple species. Supports GABA-ergic signaling and cardiovascular…
Thiamine
Thiamine (vitamin B1) is essential for converting carbohydrates into energy and maintaining nerve function. Severe deficiency causes devastating neurological damage, while subtle deficiency may impair…
Tongkat Ali
A traditional Malaysian herb gaining massive popularity in biohacking circles for testosterone support and libido enhancement. Research suggests it may help optimize hormone levels in men, though…
Tryptophan
The original 'turkey drowsiness' amino acid — an essential building block for serotonin and melatonin. Unlike 5-HTP, tryptophan must compete with other amino acids for brain entry, making its effects…
Turkesterone
Ecdysteroid compound extracted from Ajuga turkestanica plant, heavily marketed for muscle building and athletic performance. Despite massive popularity in fitness communities, human research is…
Valerian
Ancient herbal sleep remedy that enhances GABA brain receptors to promote relaxation. Evidence is decidedly mixed — some studies show modest benefits while others find no effect versus placebo. Takes…
Vitamin A
Essential fat-soluble vitamin critical for vision, immune function, and cellular development. Available as toxic preformed retinol or safer beta-carotene provitamin A. While vital for eye health,…
Vitamin B12
Essential vitamin for nerve function and DNA synthesis, commonly deficient in older adults, vegans, and people taking certain medications. Deficiency causes reversible cognitive problems and may…
Vitamin B6
Essential B vitamin involved in over 100 enzyme reactions, particularly neurotransmitter synthesis. The active P5P form bypasses conversion issues, while high doses of synthetic pyridoxine can…
Vitamin C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is the classic antioxidant vitamin, essential for collagen synthesis and immune function. It's a proven component of the AREDS2 formula that slows age-related macular…
Vitamin D3
The "sunshine vitamin" that functions more like a hormone, regulating over 1,000 genes across immune, bone, and cardiovascular systems. With 40% of US adults deficient, it's one of the most…
Vitamin E
Fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin essential for cell membrane protection. Part of the proven AREDS2 eye formula, but the SELECT trial revealed concerning prostate cancer risks at high doses (400 IU…
Vitamin K1
Essential fat-soluble vitamin primarily responsible for blood clotting through activation of clotting factors. Found abundantly in leafy greens, K1 differs from K2 in structure and function. Critical…
Vitamin K2
The "calcium director" that works synergistically with vitamin D3 to guide calcium into bones and away from arteries. MK-7 form offers superior absorption and longer half-life compared to MK-4, making…
Whey Protein
Fast-absorbing milk protein supplement rich in essential amino acids and leucine. Gold standard for muscle protein synthesis, exercise recovery, and meeting daily protein needs.
Zinc
Essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. Zinc deficiency is linked to tinnitus in multiple studies. Also critical for immune function, wound healing, and retinal health.
How to read the scores
Relevance badges
HighDirectly studied for this condition
ModeratePlausible mechanism
LowWeak or indirect
Evidence & onset bars
Strong evidence / fast onset
Emerging / limited
Insufficient data
Safety strip
No significant concerns
Worth noting
Significant concern
Affiliate links: Same price for you. A small share keeps this site independent.