The bioactive compounds in saffron (crocins, crocetin, safranal) have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and support mood regulating neurotransmitter function. Saffron is recommended by the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments Taskforce as an effective nutraceutical for low mood, either on its own or alongside standard treatments. A meta-analysis found saffron significantly reduced mental-health symptom scores and lowered c-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation.

In the UK, we struggle to make enough of this essential vitamin from the sun alone. Research consistently links low vitamin D with a higher risk of depression and low mood. In a meta-analysis of meta-analyses, Vitamin D supplementation was found to improve symptoms of depression and reduce the development symptoms. A 2025 systematic review found the same link, that Vitamin D supplementation can have a beneficial effect on symptoms and the incidence of depression. There is also emerging evidence that Vitamin D levels may be lower in young children with ADHD.

Zinc is a neuromodulator that is highly concentrated in the brain. It supports synaptic plasticity, strengthening connections between neurons, especially in areas linked to learning and memory, such as the hippocampus. Zinc increases neurogenesis, helping neural stem cells produce new neurons, which is essential for learning, memory and mood. Zinc is recommended by the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments Taskforce as an effective nutraceutical for low mood. The Mood One contains zinc citrate, a form of zinc that can be easily absorbed to support brain signalling for focus.

Acerola cherry is a natural rich source of vitamin C, containing up to 100 times more than you would find in an orange.Rich in phytonutrients like carotenoids, flavonoids and anthocyanins, acerola cherry has powerful antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to fatigue and low mood. Acerola’s natural compounds help regulate the stress response, with vitamin C helping support mood and resilience to stress, as well as supporting mood regulating neurotransmitter function for emotional stability and overall wellbeing.

When you think about chamomile, you probably think of tea, sipped for a moment of peace and calm. Chamomile has long been used to support relaxation. Chamomile contains flavonoids—especially apigenin—that can calm the nervous system. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials and quasi-randomised trials found that chamomile can be effective for sleep quality by helping reduce nighttime awakenings and also helps manage anxious feelings. Another systematic review also found that chamomile can support the body’s natural relaxation response. 

When you think of lavender, you will probably think of relaxation and sleep. Lavender increases GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the body that activates the nervous system to promote rest and digest. Lavender has been recommended by the World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments Taskforce as a botanical that can support people with anxious feelings. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 65 randomised controlled trials with nearly 8,000 participants found that 54 studies reported significant results favouring lavender to support rest and relaxation. 

Vitamin B6 plays an important role in producing and regulating neurotransmitters that influence mood and relaxation, including serotonin, dopamine and GABA. By supporting the conversion of tryptophan into serotonin, B6 indirectly contributes to melatonin production, the hormone that guides the sleep–wake cycle. A supportive daily dose contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, normal psychological function and it helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.

Vitamin B12 plays a key role in maintaining healthy nerve function and supporting the body’s energy and stress-regulation systems. It helps in the production of neurotransmitters involved in mood balance, which may indirectly ease anxious feelings. B12 also supports the body’s natural circadian rhythm by helping regulate melatonin synthesis, a hormone essential for the sleep–wake cycle. Low levels of B12 are associated with fatigue, mood changes, and disrupted sleep patterns, so maintaining adequate intake can contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, normal psychological function and it helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.