Best Supplements for HPA Axis Support (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is the central system controlling your stress response, energy levels, and hormone balance. When chronic stress dysregulates this axis, you may experience fatigue, anxiety, sleep problems, and difficulty coping with even minor stressors. The right supplements can help restore healthy HPA axis function, supporting balanced cortisol production and improved stress resilience.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: Adrenal System Support – comprehensive HPA axis regulation
- Best for Stress: WellPath Zen Stress Relief – multi-pathway HPA support
- Best Value: Cortisol Supplements 10-in-1 – hormone balance formula
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adrenal System Support | Ashwagandha, L-Tyrosine, Ginseng | Capsules | 60 | HPA axis regulation |
| WellPath Zen Stress Relief | Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, 5-HTP | Capsules | 60 | Stress response balance |
| Cortisol Supplements 10-in-1 | Ashwagandha, L-Theanine, Magnesium | Capsules | 60 | Cortisol rhythm support |
| aSquared Rhodiola Rosea | Rhodiola 1000mg | Vegan Capsules | 180 | HPA axis adaptation |
| Nature’s Nutrition Adrenal Support | Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, B Vitamins | Capsules | 120 | Hormone production support |
| Relaxium Calm | Ashwagandha, 5-HTP, Magnesium | Capsules | 60 | Neurotransmitter balance |
| Prominent Nutrition Schisandra | Schisandra Extract | Capsules | 60 | Liver & HPA support |
1. Adrenal System Support & Cortisol Manager – Best Overall
- Keep Your Stress In Check: Too much cortisol flowing through your body can lead to decreased cognitive performance, imbalances, and more. Too little can bring brain fog and unease. Strike the right balance by maintaining already healthy cortisol levels with our Adrenal System Support supplement. We recommend one capsule daily, also pairs well with Thyroid Support.
- Maintain Cortisol Balance: From basics like Vitamins C and B6 to Eleutherococcus Senticosus, we’ve carefully selected each ingredient in this adrenal system support supplement for its ability to help regulate occasional stress and maintain normal adrenal system function.
- Dial Down: Occasional stress is part of life, but it need not dampen the mind or body. That’s why we include the best ingredients such as L-Tyrosine, Ginseng, Rhodiola Root, Suma Root, Holy Basil Leaf, and more in our Adrenal System Support supplement. These work in concert to promote calm and help your body adapt to varying levels of stress.
- Manufactured To Rigorous Standards: We elect to manufacture at a GMP-certified facility, right here in the USA, using globally sourced ingredients. This means you can be confident that each capsule of our cortisol supplement will contain only natural, high-quality manger ingredients with no fillers or junk substitutes.
- Order Today: Experience the difference that maintaining well-regulated cortisol levels can make to your day. Click add to cart today!
This comprehensive formula targets all three components of the HPA axis with adaptogens, amino acids, and essential vitamins.
The supplement combines ashwagandha to regulate the hypothalamus, rhodiola and ginseng for stress adaptation, and L-tyrosine to support neurotransmitter production in the pituitary. Holy basil and suma root provide additional HPA axis support, while vitamins C and B6 supply nutrients essential for cortisol synthesis and nervous system function.
What We Like
- Comprehensive formula addresses all HPA axis components
- L-tyrosine supports pituitary neurotransmitter production
- Multiple adaptogens provide broad-spectrum stress protection
- Two-month supply offers good value for sustained use
What Could Be Better
- L-tyrosine may interact with thyroid medications
- Best taken in morning to support natural cortisol rhythm
Bottom Line: The most comprehensive formula for supporting healthy HPA axis function through multiple pathways.
2. WellPath Zen Stress Relief Supplement – Best for Stress
- [Stress Relief Formula] Do you get overwhelmed by daily stressors? We know the feeling! Which is why we created Zen. It's expertly curated with herbs, vitamins, and adaptogens to support your daily stressors and help you live in a zen state of mind!
- [Stay Focused and Calm] You deserve to live a happy, healthy life. That's why we combine superfoods like Passionflower & Niacinamide powder with Riboflavin and magnesium in our products so you can be more positive throughout your day!
- [Vitamins for Men and Women] Zen's vitamin supplement is a vegan daily multivitamin for women and men who want to help improve their mood. We use naturally sourced herbal ingredients to help cultivate a positive sense of well-being.
- [Premium Herbal Ingredients] WellPath Zen's calming vitamin features Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb known to assist with balancing occasional stress; Rhodiola Rosea, L-Theanine, Hawthorn Leaf, Lemon Balm & more! Designed for your daily stress support
- [Featuring Ashwagandha + Rhodiola Rosea] Ashwagandha & Rhodiola Rosea are adaptogenic herbs known for their ability to help the body adapt to stress & improve energy levels.
WellPath Zen helps restore HPA axis balance by addressing both the stress triggers and neurotransmitter systems involved.
The formula features ashwagandha to modulate the HPA axis response to stress, rhodiola to enhance stress resilience, and 5-HTP to support serotonin production – a key neurotransmitter in the hypothalamic-pituitary system. This multi-pathway approach helps restore the balanced stress response that chronic activation has disrupted.
What We Like
- Ashwagandha has strong research for HPA axis regulation
- Rhodiola supports adaptive stress response throughout the axis
- 5-HTP addresses neurotransmitter depletion from chronic stress
- Non-habit forming formula suitable for long-term HPA support
What Could Be Better
- Full HPA axis rebalancing takes several weeks
- 5-HTP may cause mild digestive upset initially
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for restoring HPA axis balance disrupted by chronic stress and overwhelm.
3. Cortisol Supplements for Women Men 10-in-1 – Best Value
- Targeted Cortisol Management - Clinically formulated to help manage cortisol levels in the body, supporting a balanced cortisol response during pressure; Our cortisol detox adaptogenic blend (ashwagandha, chamomile, phosphatidylserine) works synergistically to regulate cortisol production—These cortisol supplements for women/men ideal for busy professionals, parents, or anyone seeking adrenal support without fillers or additives
- Pressure Management & Relaxation - Are you still struggling with office pressure? Our cortisol reducer supplements blend tension-fighting ingredients like magnesium glycinate (122mg) and L-theanine (50mg) to promote relaxation while maintaining mental clarity; The addition of vitamin C (90mg) and D3 (20mcg) supports overall wellness, helping you cope with pressure naturally
- Science-Backed Formulation - Every capsule delivers precise dosages: 250mg ashwagandha extract (20:1), 50mg chamomile (10:1), and 24mg phosphatidylserine for optimal effectiveness; Unlike generic lower cortisol for women, these cortisol supplement use no synthetic fillers—just a clean, vegan-friendly formula trusted by health-conscious users
- Dual-Action Cortisol Balance for All Lifestyles - Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a night-shift worker, or juggling daily demands, our cortisol reducer adapts to your needs; St. John’s wort (20mg) and astragalus (20mg) support mood stability*, while black pepper extract (10:1) ensures maximum nutrient absorption; Take 2 capsules daily—morning and evening—for sustained cortisol support
- 60-Day Supply - We stand behind our cortisol supplement for men and women with rigorous quality testing; Our formula is non-GMO, allergen-free, and manufactured in a cGMP facility; Join thousands who’ve transformed their tension management—try CortiCare risk-free and experience why we’re ranked among the best supplements to lower cortisol!
This 10-ingredient formula specifically targets cortisol dysregulation – the hallmark of HPA axis dysfunction.
The supplement combines ashwagandha for HPA axis modulation with L-theanine to promote calm focus and magnesium glycinate for nervous system support. By addressing abnormal cortisol patterns – often too high at night and too low in the morning when the HPA axis is dysregulated – it helps restore healthy hormone rhythms.
What We Like
- Targets cortisol rhythm disruption directly
- L-theanine supports calm without suppressing healthy stress response
- Magnesium glycinate is highly absorbable and HPA-supportive
- Comprehensive formula at competitive price point
What Could Be Better
- Multiple ingredients increase potential interaction risk
- Works best as part of comprehensive stress management
Bottom Line: Outstanding value for a formula specifically designed to restore healthy HPA axis cortisol patterns.
4. aSquared Rhodiola Rosea Supplement 1000mg – Best for Adaptation
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH RHODIOLA ROSEA: Our potent Rhodiola Rosea formula contains 500mg per veggie capsule (1000mg per serving), and is made in the USA in a GMP compliant facility. Rhodiola Rosea is known as an Adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stress. The Rhodiola plant is native to the arctic regions of Asia, Europe and even Siberia. Don't settle for 60, 90 or 120 capsules. We offer 180 vegan capsules per bottle. *
- HELPS BOOST ENERGY, MOOD & PERFORMANCE: Rhodiola Rosea helps boost energy levels, supports normal and elevated mood, and may even increase physical and athletic performance. Additionally, Rhodiola Rosea promotes healthy immune system and thyroid function. Similar to Panax Ginseng and Ashwagandha, Rhodiola is an adaptogen and is often used to help the mind and body adapt to stress. *
- HELPS BOOST MEMORY & BRAIN FUNCTION: Rhodiola Rosea promotes healthy brain function, supports increased memory. Rhodiola Rosea may improve the absorbency of the blood-brain barrier supporting normal transport of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine that are essential for promoting healthy mood. Additionally, Rhodiola has antioxidant properties. *
- BEST VALUE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON: Our high potency Rhodiola Rosea complex comes with 180 veggie capsules, each containing 500 mg of Rhodiola – not to be confused with the forms of Rhodiola such as Drops, Oil, Liquid, Drink, Cream, Caps, Chewable, and Tea – and contains a high dosage of Rosavin and Salidrosid.. Rhodiola Rosea is also called Arctic Root, Goldenroot, Rose Root Extract, Rosenroot, Sedum Rhodiola, Roseroot, Siberian Golden Root and more. *
- PROVEN TRACK RECORD: aSquared Nutrition takes pride in quality and reliability. You’ll love our ever-expanding product line from CoQ10 400mg (Coenzyme Q10) to Vitamin B-12 (Methyl B12). Other products include Panax Ginseng, Milk Thistle 1000 MG, DHEA 100mg, Resveratrol 1000mg, Turmeric Curcumin, Natural Ceylon Cinnamon (100% All Natural), Green Coffee Bean Extract, Garcinia Cambogia, Berberine, and Forskolin 500mg. *
Rhodiola stands out for its proven ability to help the HPA axis adapt to stress without becoming dysregulated.
This high-potency supplement delivers 1000mg of rhodiola root extract per serving. Research shows rhodiola supports healthy HPA axis function by modulating stress hormone release, protecting against stress-induced damage, and improving the axis’s ability to return to baseline after stressful events.
What We Like
- Strong research backing specifically for HPA axis regulation
- Maximum strength 1000mg dosage for optimal effects
- 180 vegan capsules provide excellent long-term value
- Single ingredient allows precise HPA-focused supplementation
What Could Be Better
- Works best when combined with HPA-supporting nutrients
- Effects build gradually over several weeks
Bottom Line: One of the most research-backed single ingredients for protecting and restoring HPA axis function.
5. Nature’s Nutrition Adrenal Support – Best for Hormone Production
- ADVANCED NATURAL ENERGY, ADRENAL SUPPORT: Nature's Nutrition adrenal support features like ashwagandha & rhodiola to support natural energy, supports adrenal fatigue & daily health; a powerful supplement & natural energy for men and women
- EFFECTIVE ADRENAL SUPPORT SUPPLEMENT: Premium adrenal ashwagandha & herbal extracts; making it an ideal adrenal health supplement for focus & calm support
- BEST ADRENAL SUPPORT SUPPLEMENTS: Our advanced adrenal ashwagandha supplement for women and men calm support formula; it works as a trusted supplement & daily capsule for anyone needing energy support
- TRUSTED ADRENAL, IMMUNE SUPPORT FORMULA: Natures Nutrition adrenal health supplements are non GMO, gluten free & bottled in the USA; herbal supplement supports adrenal fatigue, for immune support, making it one of the best adrenal ashwagandha capsules available
- ADRENAL SUPPORT SUPPLEMENTS: extra strength best adrenal cortex complex ashwagandha with vitamins 60 herb capsules natural supplement herbs vegan extract for women men active night formula adren caps adrenall glandular cocktail vitamin c daily energy health support to gland fatigue rhodiola calm natures nutrition dietary supplements all standard nutritional process adrenochrome desiccated
Supporting the adrenal component of the HPA axis requires both adaptogens and the nutrients needed for hormone synthesis.
Nature’s Nutrition combines ashwagandha and rhodiola for HPA axis stress adaptation with B vitamins and vitamin C – essential cofactors for cortisol and other stress hormone production. This approach addresses both stress resilience and the raw materials the HPA axis needs to function.
What We Like
- Combines adaptogens with hormone synthesis nutrients
- B vitamins support neurotransmitter production throughout HPA axis
- Vitamin C is essential for adrenal cortisol synthesis
- 120 capsules provide two months of comprehensive support
What Could Be Better
- B vitamins may cause bright yellow urine (harmless)
- Best taken with food to optimize absorption
Bottom Line: Solid choice when HPA axis dysfunction involves nutrient depletion from chronic stress.
6. Relaxium Calm – Best for Neurotransmitter Balance
- STRESS & MOOD STABILIZER: Relaxium Calm, made with Ashwagandha, uses a whole-body solution to help manage stress and promote relaxation by supplying essential vitamins for mood support and stress relief.
- SAFE, POTENT & NON-HABIT FORMING: Doctor formulated, this calming supplement is non-habit forming, easy-to-swallow, and side-effect free. Relaxium Calm is your effective and gentle answer to relieving stress, worry and improving your mood.
- HIGH QUALITY & PURE INGREDIENTS: Relaxium Calm is produced by one of the most pristine and experienced dietary supplement manufacturers. Cruelty Free.
- MADE IN THE USA: Made at an FDA-inspected facility for quality you can trust, Relaxium Calm provides the perfect synergistic blend of ingredients for reliable potency and effectiveness. Our facilities use state of the art technology and adheres to strict FDA manufacturing practices.
- 100% MONEY-BACK: We created a calm supplement that fits your life. Your satisfaction is our top priority; if we don't meet your expectations just send your stress relief supplement back for a 30-day full refund.
The HPA axis relies on balanced neurotransmitters, and this formula addresses both stress adaptation and brain chemistry.
Relaxium Calm combines ashwagandha for HPA axis regulation with 5-HTP to support serotonin production and magnesium for nervous system calming. This comprehensive approach helps restore the neurotransmitter balance essential for healthy hypothalamic and pituitary function.
What We Like
- 5-HTP directly supports serotonin throughout HPA axis
- Ashwagandha at clinically effective 300mg dosage
- Magnesium supports both stress response and sleep quality
- Doctor-developed formula with quality ingredients
What Could Be Better
- Premium pricing reflects comprehensive formulation
- Full neurotransmitter rebalancing takes time
Bottom Line: Excellent when HPA axis dysfunction has disrupted neurotransmitter balance and mood regulation.
7. Prominent Nutrition Schisandra – Best for Liver & HPA Support
- Daily Schisandra Supplement: Schisandra delivers 500 mg of pure schisandra fruit berry extract for stress management support*
- Liver Support Formula: This adaptogenic supplement offers natural stress and menopause symptoms support, while supporting liver function for your overall wellness*
- Daily Stress Support: For natural resilience to everyday stress, take one capsule twice daily or as recommended by your healthcare professional*
- Non-GMO & Vegan Supplement: This health supplement contains no artificial colors and is non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free
- Quality You Can Trust: Prominent Nutrition delivers pure, researched ingredients crafted in NSF-certified facilities with rigorous testing for potency and transparency
Schisandra provides unique HPA axis support while also supporting liver function – critical for metabolizing stress hormones.
This adaptogenic supplement helps the HPA axis respond appropriately to stress while supporting the liver’s ability to clear cortisol and other hormones. The dual action helps prevent hormone buildup that can further dysregulate the stress response system.
What We Like
- Unique adaptogen with specific HPA axis benefits
- Liver support helps clear excess stress hormones
- Traditional use and modern research both support efficacy
- No artificial colors or unnecessary additives
What Could Be Better
- Less well-known than ashwagandha or rhodiola
- Effects may be subtle and gradual
Bottom Line: Excellent choice when HPA axis support needs to include hormone metabolism and clearance.
How to Choose the Best Supplement for HPA Axis Support
Start by understanding your specific HPA axis dysfunction pattern. If you have high morning cortisol and feel wired but tired, you need different support than someone with low cortisol throughout the day. Saliva cortisol testing can reveal your pattern, helping you choose targeted supplements. High cortisol benefits from calming adaptogens like ashwagandha, while low cortisol may respond better to supporting nutrients like vitamin C and B vitamins.
Consider the duration and severity of your HPA axis dysfunction. Mild dysregulation from a recent stressful period may resolve with 2-3 months of basic adaptogenic support. Severe, long-standing dysfunction often requires comprehensive formulas with multiple ingredients and 6-12 months of consistent use. Choose products appropriate for your timeline and commitment level.
Pay attention to which HPA axis component seems most affected. If you struggle primarily with hypothalamic symptoms like temperature regulation and appetite disruption, look for supplements supporting this area. Pituitary issues often manifest as hormone imbalances beyond cortisol. Adrenal-focused symptoms include the classic morning fatigue and salt cravings. Comprehensive formulas work best for multi-level dysfunction.
Evaluate whether your HPA axis issues stem from physical stress, psychological stress, or both. Physical stressors like chronic illness, poor sleep, or inflammatory conditions may respond best to anti-inflammatory adaptogens and immune-supporting nutrients. Psychological stress benefits more from neurotransmitter-supporting ingredients and adaptogens with specific anti-anxiety effects.
Think about medication interactions and health conditions. HPA axis supplements can interact with thyroid medications, blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, and psychiatric medications. Always review your complete medication list with a healthcare provider before starting HPA axis support, particularly if you have autoimmune conditions or hormonal disorders.
Benefits of Supplements for HPA Axis Support
HPA axis supplements work through multiple mechanisms to restore healthy stress response function. Adaptogenic herbs help regulate the feedback loops that control cortisol production, preventing both excessive release during stress and inadequate production when you need energy. This restoration of normal HPA axis sensitivity allows more appropriate stress responses rather than the exaggerated or blunted reactions that characterize dysfunction.
Many HPA axis supplements provide neuroprotective effects at the hypothalamic and pituitary levels. Chronic stress can cause structural changes and inflammation in these brain regions. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in herbs like rhodiola and ashwagandha help protect neural tissue, support healthy neurotransmitter function, and may even promote neurogenesis in stressed brain areas.
Quality HPA axis formulas also address the nutrient deficiencies that perpetuate dysfunction. The HPA axis requires specific vitamins and minerals for optimal function – vitamin C for cortisol synthesis, B vitamins for neurotransmitter production, magnesium for nervous system regulation. Chronic stress depletes these nutrients faster than diet alone can replace them, creating a vicious cycle that supplementation helps break.
Beyond direct HPA axis effects, these supplements often improve downstream consequences of dysfunction. Better cortisol rhythms support improved sleep quality, more stable blood sugar, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immune function. As HPA axis function normalizes, you typically experience cascading improvements in energy, mood, stress tolerance, and overall vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HPA axis and why does it matter?
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is your body’s central stress response system. The hypothalamus in your brain detects stress and signals the pituitary gland, which then signals your adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This axis controls not just stress hormones but also influences energy, mood, immune function, digestion, and numerous other systems. When chronic stress dysregulates the HPA axis, these diverse functions all suffer.
How do I know if my HPA axis is dysregulated?
Common signs include persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep, difficulty handling stress that previously wouldn’t have bothered you, disrupted sleep patterns, blood sugar instability, frequent infections, mood changes, and hormonal imbalances. The most accurate assessment involves saliva cortisol testing at four time points throughout the day to map your cortisol rhythm. Consult a functional medicine practitioner for proper testing and interpretation.
Can HPA axis supplements replace stress management?
No supplement can substitute for addressing the stressors dysregulating your HPA axis. While supplements provide valuable biochemical support, lasting HPA axis recovery requires lifestyle changes including adequate sleep, stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and addressing chronic stressors. Think of supplements as accelerating and supporting recovery, not replacing the fundamental work.
How long does it take to restore HPA axis function?
Recovery timelines vary dramatically based on dysfunction severity and duration. Mild HPA axis disruption might normalize within 3-6 months with proper support. Moderate dysfunction often requires 6-12 months. Severe, long-standing dysregulation can take 12-24 months or longer. The HPA axis is remarkably resilient, but restoration takes patience and consistent effort.
Will HPA axis supplements interfere with birth control?
Most adaptogenic herbs used for HPA axis support don’t directly interfere with hormonal birth control. However, some adaptogens can influence hormone levels indirectly through effects on the HPA axis and liver metabolism. If you use hormonal contraception, discuss HPA axis supplements with your healthcare provider to ensure safe use and monitor for any changes in contraceptive effectiveness.
Can children take HPA axis support supplements?
Children and teenagers can experience HPA axis dysfunction from chronic stress, but most HPA axis supplements aren’t specifically tested in pediatric populations. If your child shows signs of chronic stress or HPA axis issues, consult a pediatrician or pediatric functional medicine practitioner for age-appropriate interventions. They may recommend specific nutrients, lifestyle changes, or carefully selected herbs in appropriate doses.
What’s the difference between HPA axis dysfunction and PTSD?
While both involve stress system dysregulation, they differ significantly. PTSD is a psychiatric disorder resulting from trauma, involving characteristic symptoms like flashbacks, avoidance, and hypervigilance. HPA axis dysfunction describes the physiological stress system dysregulation that can occur from various causes including but not limited to trauma. PTSD often involves HPA axis changes, but HPA axis dysfunction can occur without trauma or PTSD. Both benefit from professional treatment.
Can exercise help restore HPA axis function?
Yes, but the type and intensity matter greatly. Moderate exercise supports healthy HPA axis function by promoting appropriate cortisol rhythms and improving stress resilience. However, excessive high-intensity exercise when your HPA axis is already dysregulated can worsen the problem by adding more stress. During HPA axis recovery, focus on gentle activities like walking, yoga, tai chi, or swimming rather than intense training.
