*Not all products in this category have an EFSA-approved health claim. Products with an EFSA claim are described as such in the text. For the other products, they are grouped under this theme based on traditional use or product formula. For specific health questions, we recommend consulting a doctor or an orthomolecular therapist.
Written by the Plenthera team (orthomolecular trained). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: April 30, 2026.
Chronic stress is a daily reality for many people — work pressure, social obligations, screen time, financial worries, sleep deprivation. The body reacts via the adrenal gland (cortisol). Useful in the short term, exhausting in the long term. At Plenthera, you'll find supplements that support the stress response: adaptogens for cortisol balance, magnesium for nervous system calm, B-complex for adrenal function, and theanine for mental relaxation.
Which stress-stack is right for you?
| Stress type | Recommended stack | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Acute stress (event) | L-theanine + magnesium | As needed |
| Chronic work pressure | B-complex + magnesium + reishi | Day + evening |
| Burn-out recovery | Adaptogens + B-complex + magnesium + supportive base | Throughout the day |
| Stress + sleep issues | Sleep stack + adaptogens during the day | Day-night |
| Stress + fatigue | Cordyceps + B-complex + magnesium | Morning |
What is stress & adrenal gland?
The stress response is regulated by the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) — a hormone chain that produces cortisol when a threat is perceived. Stress supplements work via this axis: adaptogens modulate cortisol, magnesium relaxes the nervous system, B-complex supports adrenal function, and theanine acts on alpha waves in the brain.
Adaptogens form the core of a stress supplement stack. The term was introduced in 1947 by Soviet researcher Nikolai Lazarev and refers to plants that help the body "adapt" to various forms of stress. The characteristic: they have a leveling effect — lowering cortisol when values are chronically high, increasing it during exhaustion.
Classic adaptogens in Plenthera's range include reishi (evening, calming profile), rhodiola (daytime, energy + stress balance) and cordyceps (energy + endurance). Ashwagandha is currently a point of attention in NL due to VWS discussion, but reishi and rhodiola cover a similar profile for those who want to approach the stress route adaptogenically.
Magnesium deficiency and chronic stress are closely linked. Under stress, magnesium is excreted more quickly — which can amplify the same stress response (magnesium actually calms the nervous system). For those under chronic pressure, magnesium bisglycinate 300-400 mg per day is one of the most important basic supplements.
Stress & Adrenal Gland and EFSA — what is scientifically recognized?
EFSA has not recognized a specific "stress claim", but it has recognized a series of related claims for components:
"Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function."
"Pantothenic acid (B5) contributes to normal mental performance."
"Vitamin B6 contributes to normal psychological function."
"Vitamin B12 contributes to normal psychological function."
Thresholds apply to daily intake providing at least 15% RI.
Adaptogens — what do they do?
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Classic calming adaptogen. Evening profile, supports transition to rest.
Rhodiola rosea: Energetic adaptogen — during the day. Cortisol balance, mental performance under stress.
Cordyceps: Energy + endurance. During the day. For those whose stress causes fatigue.
Ashwagandha (NL point of attention): Classic evening rest adaptogen. NL VWS discussion 2024/2025 — check status. Reishi is an alternative.
Cacao + L-theanine: Not adaptogenic but stress-modulating — flavanols + alpha-wave modulation.
The stress-stack at Plenthera
Magnesium bisglycinate (300-400 mg)
Basic for chronic pressure.
Reishi (evening)
Adaptogen for evening rest.
B-complex (morning)
Adrenal cofactors.
L-theanine (200-400 mg, as needed)
Mental relaxation without drowsiness. See our amino acids category.
Cordyceps + Lion's Mane (during the day)
Mental energy and focus under stress.
Vitamin C + zinc (immune protection)
Stress weakens the immune system.
How to use stress & adrenal gland supplements?
Simple basic approach for stress supplements:
- Start with magnesium bisglycinate 300 mg spread throughout the day.
- Add B-complex in the morning for adrenal support.
- For evening rest: reishi extract 1 hour before bedtime.
- For acute stress moments: L-theanine 200 mg as needed.
- For chronic exhaustion: add cordyceps during the day.
- Combine with a base (vitamin D, omega 3) for broad support.
- For severe stress, burnout, or mental complaints: medical care, not just supplements.
Myths and misconceptions about stress & adrenal gland
Myth 1: "Adaptogens work acutely."
Incorrect. Cumulative effect — allow at least 4-8 weeks.
Myth 2: "Magnesium 'neutralizes' cortisol."
Incorrect mechanism. Magnesium supports nervous system calm, not direct cortisol binding.
Myth 3: "The more adaptogens, the better."
Stacking many adaptogens at once is not recommended — choose 1-2.
Myth 4: "Supplements replace therapy for burnout."
Incorrect. For severe stress issues: medical and/or psychological care.
Combining Stress & Adrenal Gland supplements with other supplements
Stress supplements work within a broader wellness cluster:
- Sleep stack: stress + sleep issues often go hand in hand.
- Vitamin D: low status worsens stress response.
- Omega 3 (DHA): brain function under stress.
- Vitamin C and zinc: immune system weakens under chronic stress.
- Cacao: theobromine + flavanols — mild stress modulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which supplements help with stress?
Magnesium bisglycinate, adaptogens (reishi, rhodiola, cordyceps), B-complex, L-theanine.
What are adaptogens?
Plants that help adapt to stress through cortisol modulation.
Magnesium for stress — does it work?
EFSA claim psychological function. Bisglycinate is the most suitable form.
B-complex for stress?
B5, B6, B12 cofactors in adrenal function. EFSA claims for psychological function.
Theanine for stress?
Mental relaxation without drowsiness. 200-400 mg as needed.
What are ashwagandha alternatives?
Reishi (evening), rhodiola (day), cordyceps. Similar adaptogen profile.
Burnout supplements?
Broad stack + medical care. Not self-medication for severe burnout.
Naturally lower cortisol?
Adaptogens, magnesium, sleep, exercise, breathing.
When to take stress supplements?
B-complex morning, magnesium divided, theanine as needed, reishi evening.
How long before it works?
4-8 weeks for cumulative effect of adaptogens.
Sources
- EFSA Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — magnesium and B-vitamins.
- Panossian A. & Wikman G., "Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System", Pharmaceuticals (2010).
- Panossian A. et al., "Adaptogens: A Review of their History", Phytother Res (2018).
Disclaimer: This text is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Supplements are dietary supplements, not medicines. If in doubt or if you are taking medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first. For serious or persistent complaints: medical care remains the basis.