Pretty much everyone feels a little bit nervous in social settings from time to time.
First dates, parties where you don’t really know anyone, lunch meetings with a big potential client, these are all situations where it’s natural to feel some anxiety.
However, social anxiety is a spectrum, and some people have a harder time feeling comfortable socializing than others.
Some people may try to avoid certain settings, or even leave their house altogether. Severe cases of social anxiety usually require therapy and counseling to treat.
Luckily, no matter where you may fall on this spectrum, there are some over-the-counter supplements that may ease the internal pressure when you are around others.
What Are The Best Nootropics for Social Anxiety – Quick Answers
Read More: Why You Should Never Buy Nootropics From Amazon
Nootropics For Socializing
The first thing that comes to mind when people think about easing their social anxiety is alcohol.
And, while it certainly may work for some people, there are obvious health downsides to drinking until you feel confident.
We can say pretty definitively that cocktails are NOT nootropic (even though they may feel that way!).
Fortunately, the supplements on this list have proven benefits when it comes to lowering anxiety and enjoying the company of others.
And, you won’t wake up with a headache the morning after.
Read More: Mind Lab Pro vs Qualia Mind- Which Nootropic Stack Is Best For You
Best Nootropics For Social Anxiety
Blood Sugar Breakthrough
Helps stabilize blood sugar levels
Supports cognitive function and helps improve focus/attention span
Natural ingredients help stabilize the body’s glucose metabolism
Easy to take capsules help you focus without the hunger or jitters associated with Adderall
Blood Sugar Breakthrough is a unique formula with plenty of beneficial ingredients which promote physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
In addition to regulating blood sugar levels in prediabetic and diabetic patients, Blood Sugar Breakthrough Formula also optimizes brain health by relieving symptoms of mood disorders, anxiety and depression.
The goodness of ingredients such as biotin, cinnamon extract and dihydroberberine modulates the neuro-sensory pathways in the central nervous system which increases calmness and eases social anxiety.1David O. Kennedy, B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review, Nutrients. 2016 2Reyhaneh Sohrabi , Nasim Pazgoohan , Hasan Rezaei Seresht , Bahareh Amin, Repeated systemic administration of the cinnamon essential oil possesses anti-anxiety and anti-depressant activities in mice, Iran J Basic Med Sci. 20173Jie Fan, Kun Zhang, Yang Jin, Bingjini Li, Shuohui Gao, Jiaming Zhu,and Ranji Cui, Pharmacological effects of berberine on mood disorders, J Cell Mol Med. 2019
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients that have been clinically proven to help lower blood sugar levels
- Has been shown to help people lose weight
- comes with a money-back guarantee, so you can feel confident that you’re not wasting your money if it doesn’t work for you
Cons
- Can be a bit pricey
Magnesium Breakthrough
Magnesium restores balance to the mind and body
Improves symptoms of ADHD in some people
Triggers relaxation response
Steadies the mind for restful sleep
Research suggests that magnesium may potentially have an anxiolytic effect since it acts as a neuroprotective agent and helps to attenuate the symptoms of anxiety and depression.4Neil Bernard Boyle, Clare Lawton, and Louise Dye, The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review, Nutrients. 2017
In addition to its role in the management of symptoms of anxiety and depression, magnesium has also shown to have mood-stabilizing effects.5Shaheen E Lakhan , Karen F Vieira, Nutritional and herbal supplements for anxiety and anxiety-related disorders: systematic review, Nutr J. 2010
Adequate intake of magnesium can ease nervous tension, regulate mood swings, reduce irritability, and decrease anxiety. Evidence suggests that there may be strong positive effects of magnesium on subjective anxiety outcomes, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety.6Ewa Poleszak , Bernadeta Szewczyk, Ewa Kedzierska, Piotr Wlaź, Andrzej Pilc, Gabriel Nowak, Antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like activity of magnesium in mice, Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2004
Magnesium Breakthrough formulation comprises various forms of absorbable magnesium. It also encapsulates magnesium glycinate which is recommended to individuals with symptoms of social anxiety and depression.
Reishi
Promotes long-term focus and mental energy
Stimulate neurogenesis
Boosts immune system
Calm effects on central nervous system
Reishi mushroom has been used to maintain homeostatic balance since ancient times.
This mushroom is found to have calming effects on the central nervous system and help the anxious mind rest and relax.7Huihui Wu, Shanshan Tang, Zhaoqin Huang, Qian Zhou, Ping Zhang, Zuohong Chen, Hepatoprotective Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Triterpenoids from Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes) on α-Amanitin-Induced Liver Injury in Mice, Int J Med Mushrooms. 2016
It is also used to promote deep restful sleep which is necessary for recovery and neurotransmitter balance.8Emmanuelle Bostock, Kenneth Kirkby, Michael Garry, Bruce Taylor, and Jason A. Hawrelak, Mania Associated With Herbal Medicines, Other Than Cannabis: A Systematic Review and Quality Assessment of Case Reports, Front Psychiatry. 2018
Reishi mushroom’s ability to calm the mind and body make it a great nootropic for social anxiety.9Pengjiao Zeng, Zhihua Guo, Xuan Zeng, Cui Hao, Yiran Zhang, Meng Zhang, Yong Liu, Hui Li, Juan Li, Lijuan Zhang, Chemical, biochemical, preclinical and clinical studies of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide as an approved drug for treating myopathy and other diseases in China, JCMM. 2018
Freshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Reishi.
Pros
- May help improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels
- Can be consumed in many different forms, such as capsules, powders, teas, and tinctures
- Used in Asia for centuries as a medicinal mushroom
Cons
- Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and nausea
- Not recommended for people with autoimmune disease or taking immunosuppressive medication
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Stimulates NGF and BDNF synthesis
Boosts energy levels by raising alpha brain waves
Improves cognitive functioning and concentration
Lion’s Mane mushroom’s ability to promote the formation of nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor is crucial in stabilizing nerves and boosting self esteem.10Sun Ryu , Hyoun Geun Kim , Joo Youn Kim , Seong Yun Kim , Kyung-Ok Cho, Hericium erinaceus Extract Reduces Anxiety and Depressive Behaviors by Promoting Hippocampal Neurogenesis in the Adult Mouse Brain, J Med Food. 2018
These 2 factors ultimately boost neurogenesis and neuroplasticity while enhancing cognitive blood flow, oxygen delivery, and lowering inflammation which are all important in mitigating social anxiety.11Pit Shan Chong, Man-Lung Fung, Kah Hui Wong, and Lee Wei Lim, Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder, Int J Mol Sci. 202012Fiona Limanaqi, Francesca Biagioni, Carla Letizia Busceti, Maico Polzella, Cinzia Fabrizi, and Francesco Fornai, Potential Antidepressant Effects of Scutellaria baicalensis, Hericium erinaceus and Rhodiola rosea, Antioxidants (Basel). 2020
Lion’s Mane cognitive benefits will help you feel comfortable during parties, walk with confidence into a crowded bar and get over your social anxiety that keeps you from making new friends or meeting new people.
Freshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Lion’s Mane.
Pros
- Clinically proven to increase Nerve Growth Factor synthesis
- Can cross the blood-brain barrier
- Boosts energy levels and sharpens focus
- Suitable for Vegans/Vegetarians
- Available in powder and pill form
- Can be mixed in with meals and beverages
Cons
- Can contain small amounts of toxins if not purchased from reputable sources
Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro is a powerful nootropic multivitamin that contains nootropics, amino acids, vitamins, and adaptogenic herbs.
Designed specifically to boost focus, memory, mood, while lowering stress and anxiety.
Increased mental energy, clear thinking, and working brain cells
Lion’s Mane mushroom’s ability to promote the formation of nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor is crucial in stabilizing nerves and boosting self esteem.13Sun Ryu , Hyoun Geun Kim , Joo Youn Kim , Seong Yun Kim , Kyung-Ok Cho, Hericium erinaceus Extract Reduces Anxiety and Depressive Behaviors by Promoting Hippocampal Neurogenesis in the Adult Mouse Brain, J Med Food. 2018
These 2 factors ultimately boost neurogenesis and neuroplasticity while enhancing cognitive blood flow, oxygen delivery, and lowering inflammation which are all important in mitigating social anxiety.14Pit Shan Chong, Man-Lung Fung, Kah Hui Wong, and Lee Wei Lim, Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder, Int J Mol Sci. 202015Fiona Limanaqi, Francesca Biagioni, Carla Letizia Busceti, Maico Polzella, Cinzia Fabrizi, and Francesco Fornai, Potential Antidepressant Effects of Scutellaria baicalensis, Hericium erinaceus and Rhodiola rosea, Antioxidants (Basel). 2020
Lion’s Mane cognitive benefits will help you feel comfortable during parties, walk with confidence into a crowded bar and get over your social anxiety that keeps you from making new friends or meeting new people.
Freshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Lion’s Mane.
Pros
- Proven to boost overall cognitive performance including memory, focus, mood, creativity, motivation, and overall well-being.
- Potent blend of all-natural nootropics, herbs, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
- Good for Experienced Biohackers and those new to nootropics.
- Caffeine Free
- No artificial fillers or toxic preservatives
- Affordable Price
Cons
- Ingredients are lower dosed.
- Fewer ingredients than other leading nootropic stacks
Qualia Mind
Most advanced preformulated nootropic stack on the market.
Packed with 28 cognitive-enhancing ingredients each clinically proven to boost cognition
Preferred nootropic product for many top biohackers and wellness professionals
Available in both caffeinated and decaffeinated versions
Qualia Focus is the sister product to Qualia Mind and comes with fewer ingredients
Combating Social Anxiety is a top feature of Qualia Mind.
This advanced formula provides several ingredients that boost dopamine pathways while increasing cellular and mental energy, which helps you feel more social.
You also get B-vitamins, vitamins C, and D3 co-factors to optimize neurotransmitter synthesis.
Caffeine and non-caffeinated versions are available.
Pros
- Most advanced nootropic formula on the market
- All-natural ingredients
- Clean formula: No toxic fillers or necessary preservatives
- Many positive user testimonials
- Option for less potent Qualia Focus Available
- Over 50% off 1st Bottle
- Use “15INSAVINGS” For Additional 15% Off
Cons
- Large dose of 7 pills
- More expensive than most other nootropics
- More ingredients not always better.
L-theanine (r-glutamylethylamide) is a unique type of amino acid that is clinically proven to induce a calm state of mind, relieve stress, raise mood, and improve focus. All the things that can help when you are meeting new people!
This nootropic comes from the tea plant, and it pairs extremely well with caffeine.
It is famous for taking the edge off the caffeine buzz, providing long-lasting, jitter-free energy.
L-theanine quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier and raises your levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine.
These are all neurotransmitters associated with general well-being and can mean feeling a lot more comfortable in your own skin while you’re interacting with others.16Pradeep J. Nathan, et al. The Neuropharmacology of L-Theanine(N-Ethyl-L-Glutamine), Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy. 2006
It can also lower levels of glutamate, which is an excitatory neurotransmitter. If your glutamate gets too high, though, this can cause anxiety.17Yamada T, et al. Effects of theanine, r-glutamylethylamide, on neurotransmitter release and its relationship with glutamic acid neurotransmission, Nutr Neurosci. 2005
L-theanine can also lower cortisol and blood pressure, which can spike in social settings if you have anxiety.18Yoto A, Motoki M, Murao S, Yokogoshi H. Effects of L-theanine or caffeine intake on changes in blood pressure under physical and psychological stresses, J Physiol Anthropol. 2012
All in all, these actions work together to smooth out the nerves you might feel around others. And, it goes great with coffee!
Aniracetam
Improves brain connectivity and helps with focus
Highly sustainable- no need for tolerance build up
Helps to avoid the sudden crashes you see with other drugs
Minimal side effects, can be taken every day
Aniracetam is one of the most popular nootropics out there. Like other racetams, it can be taken for its powerful effects on memory and cognition.
But it is especially useful for people looking for a boost in sociability.
Aniracetam has a unique ability to potentially boost verbal ability and flow.
Many people who take it report that conversations go more easily, and they do not struggle to express themselves as much.
Keep in mind that all of the reports are purely anecdotal and that there has not been any actual research into these effects.
However, there are enough positive testimonials out there that we think it may be worth looking into yourself.
Ashwagandha
Improved cognitive function
Increased energy levels
Enhanced stress resistance
Modulates neurotransmitter activity
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic herb with thousands of years of history behind it.
Cultures in Southeast Asia have been using it for anxiety, stress, stamina, libido, and overall health for a very long time.
Modern science is starting to confirm ashwagandha is effective in treating a variety of conditions.
For social anxiety sufferers, ashwagandha can be a godsend. It is proven to lower the stress hormone cortisol.
Social situations can often trigger the fight-or-flight response in people with social anxiety, spiking cortisol levels.
This can cause racing thoughts, higher blood pressure, and feelings of discomfort.
Fortunately, ashwagandha can keep these levels in check, reducing the feelings of anxiety as you go about socializing.19Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. 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, Indian J Psychol Med. 2012 20Andrade C, et al. A double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the anxiolytic efficacy ff an ethanolic extract of withania somnifera., Indian J Psychiatry. 2000
We particularly like the chilled-out effects of ashwagandha at the end of the day. It can really help take the edge off a stressful day and promote better sleep.
Most people see the full effects of ashwagandha after about a month of daily use.
Pros
- Has been shown to help improve memory and cognitive function
- Helps reduce anxiety and stress levels, as well as improve sleep quality
- Strong anti-inflammatory agent, making it helpful for conditions like arthritis and asthma
- Can help reduce blood sugar levels
- Studies show taking ashwagandha can reduce cholesterol levels, helping to reduce high cholesterol levels
- Can be taken daily
Cons
- Should be avoided by pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding
- Can interfere with diabetes medicines
- Should be avoided by those with thyroid disorders
- May cause some stomach upset such as diarrhea and vomiting
Rhodiola Rosea
Used in traditional medicine for centuries
Natural way to improve mental performance and stamina
Can help reduce fatigue
Rhodiola Rosea is a perennial plant that grows in cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. Also known as “golden root” or “roseroot,” Rhodiola Rosea has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various conditions, including fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Today, Rhodiola Rosea supplements are marketed as natural ways to boost energy levels and improve mental performance. But what does the science say?
There is some evidence to suggest that Rhodiola Rosea supplements can improve mental stamina and help reduce fatigue.
One study found that Rhodiola Rosea improved mental performance in physicians working night shifts. another study found that Rhodiola Rosea improved physical stamina and reduced fatigue in long-distance runners. The mechanisms by which Rhodiola Rosea may exert these effects are not fully understood, but it is thought that the plant’s active compounds, known as rosavins, may work to increase levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin.
While more research is needed to confirm the potential benefits of rhodiola rosea supplements, there is some promise here.
Rhodiola is another adaptogenic herb with a long history as an anti-anxiety treatment. Like ashwagandha, it lowers cortisol and stress levels.21Edwards D, Heufelder A, Zimmermann A. Therapeutic effects and safety of Rhodiola rosea extract WS® 1375 in subjects with life-stress symptoms–results of an open-label study, Phytother Res. 2012
However, most people find Rhodiola more stimulating as opposed to relaxing. This can make it better for day-time social anxiety relief.
Like ashwagandha, it may take a few weeks before you start noticing the effects.
Wrapping Up
Is there a Nootropic you like to use to ease your social anxiety? Let us know in the comments!
