Finest Dietary supplements for OCD (2026) – Zac Johnson

1. NOW Supplements NAC 600 mg – Best Overall

NOW Supplements, NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) 600 mg with Selenium, 250 Veg Capsules

• FREE RADICAL PROTECTION*: Take 1 NAC capsule with selenium twice daily for free radical protection and to maintain cellular health*
• IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT: Black spots may appear in NAC because of a normal oxidative reaction, but product is safe to consume. These spots are NOT mold or any other micro-contamination. Micro-testing has been performed to assess product safety
• CERTIFICATIONS/CLASSIFICATIONS: Non-GMO, Made without Gluten, Kosher, Dairy Free, Egg Free, Nut Free, Soy Free,
• GMP Quality Assured: A-rated, third-party certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined. Our in-house laboratories are ISO/IEC accredited for laboratory testing including for stability, potency and product formulation.
• Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968

NAC is the most widely studied supplement for OCD, working as a glutamate modulator to help restore neurotransmitter balance in the brain.

Each vegetarian capsule delivers 600 mg of N-Acetyl Cysteine along with selenium and molybdenum for enhanced antioxidant support. The 250-capsule bottle provides excellent long-term value. NOW Foods manufactures in GMP-certified facilities and is a trusted name in supplements. Clinical research has used NAC at doses of 2,400–3,000 mg per day for OCD support, making this 600 mg capsule easy to scale to therapeutic levels.

• Pros:
• Clinically studied dosage form for OCD — easy to take 4-5 capsules daily to reach research doses
• Includes selenium for added antioxidant and glutathione production support
• Large 250-count bottle for sustained use

• Cons:
• Requires multiple capsules daily to reach clinical doses
• Sulfur-based compound may cause mild GI discomfort in some users

Best for: Anyone looking for the most research-backed OCD supplement with flexible dosing

2. Protocol for Life Balance Myo-Inositol Powder – Best Inositol

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Inositol has demonstrated the ability to reduce OCD symptoms at therapeutic doses by enhancing serotonin signaling in the brain.

This 1-pound powder provides pure myo-inositol in a convenient scoop format, making it practical to reach the 12–18 grams per day used in clinical OCD research. The powder dissolves easily in water or juice and has a mildly sweet taste. Protocol for Life Balance is a professional-grade supplement line, and this product is vegetarian/vegan-friendly with no unnecessary additives. Research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found inositol at 18 grams daily significantly reduced OCD symptoms.

• Pros:
• Powder form makes it practical to reach high therapeutic doses for OCD
• Pleasant, mildly sweet taste — mixes easily into beverages
• Pure formula with no fillers or artificial ingredients

• Cons:
• High doses may cause mild bloating or GI discomfort
• Requires gradual dose titration for best tolerance

Best for: Those seeking a standalone inositol supplement that can reach clinical OCD-support doses

3. 13-in-1 Lithium Orotate with Ashwagandha & L-Theanine – Best Multi-Ingredient

13-in-1 Lithium Orotate 10mg with Ashwagandha 300mg & L-Theanine 100mg – Mood, Calm, Sleep & Brain – Bacopa, Ginkgo Biloba, Lemon Balm, Magnesium Glycinate, Zinc, D3 B6 Folate B12 – 120 Vegan Capsules

• 13-in-1 Formula: Lithium Orotate, Ashwagandha and L-Theanine combine with Magnesium Glycinate, Zinc, Vitamins D3, B6, Folate (B9) & B12, plus Bacopa Monnieri, Ginkgo Biloba and Lemon Balm to help support mood, stress, sleep, focus and long-term cognitive clarity in one daily routine.* Produced using clean water extraction at low temperatures to help preserve active compounds, then paired with Black Pepper extract to enhance bioavailability – so more of what you take is actually absorbed and used by your body.*
• Trace Mineral – Lithium Orotate 10 mg: A gentle trace-mineral form that supports health neurotransmitter signaling and a balanced stress response. Helps ease mental tension and maintain steady mood without drowsiness; works synergistically with L’theanine, Magnesium, and B6 for daily calm.*
• Ashwagandha + L Theanine + Magnesium Glycinate: A targeted trio for “busy days and wired nights.” Ashwagandha supplements supports cortisol reducer and adrenal balance, l theanine supplement eases mental tension for clear focus, and gentle Magnesium Glycinate helps the body unwind – synergy for daytime calm and nighttime recovery.*
• Immediate Calm & Restful Balance: On those “too much on my mind” days, Theanine and Lemon Balm help quiet the mind and encourage calm focus, while Lithium Orotate supports steady mood. Magnesium Glycinate promotes deeper, more restorative sleep and supports health GABA signaling – without next-day grogginess.*
• Balanced Stress Response & Cognitive Clarity: By supporting a healthy HPA axis and cortisol health, ashwagandha helps you feel more composed during busy days and better able to unwind. Bacopa and Ginkgo back memory, focus, and mental sharpness. B6, Folate (B9), B12, Zinc, and D3 help replenish stress-sensitive nutrients, caffeine-free focus so you can reach for less caffeine over time.*

This comprehensive formula combines lithium orotate with calming adaptogens and amino acids to address multiple pathways involved in obsessive thinking and anxiety.

Each serving provides 10 mg lithium orotate, 300 mg ashwagandha, and 100 mg L-theanine — three compounds studied for mood stabilization, stress reduction, and calm mental focus. Low-dose lithium orotate supports healthy neurotransmitter function, while ashwagandha helps regulate the HPA axis and L-theanine promotes alpha brain wave activity. This 13-in-1 formula targets the overlapping anxiety, mood instability, and repetitive thought patterns common in OCD. For additional L-theanine support for anxiety, a dedicated supplement can complement this formula.

• Pros:
• Multi-pathway approach addressing mood, anxiety, and cognitive calm
• Low-dose lithium orotate is well-tolerated at nutritional levels
• Includes L-theanine for relaxation without drowsiness

• Cons:
• Complex formula means lower doses of each individual ingredient
• Not as extensively studied specifically for OCD as NAC or inositol

Best for: Those who want a single-capsule approach targeting multiple OCD-related pathways

4. Effective Nutra Saffron Gummies – Best Gummies

Effective Nutra Saffron Gummies for Adults 88.5mg – Mood Support & Stress Relief with GABA, Passion Flower – 5-in-1 Formula – Sugar-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, Made in USA – 90 Count (45-Day Supply)

• #1 ULTIMATE SAFFRON GUMMY: Not a fan of swallowing large capsules? Our sugar free saffron gummies taste good & go down easy. 90 Gummies in a bottle for the best value out there!*
• GET ALL THE BENEFITS: Our saffron supplement is packed with a 5-in-1 blend that may promote positive mood and attitude, digestion, physical fitness, increase in energy and focus, stress relief, heart health and brain function.*
• SUPPORTS HEALTHY MOOD: Saffron extract has a long history of traditional use for supporting a healthy mood and promoting emotional balance. A great way to maintain a positive attitude and mood all day long!*
• HEALTHY & DELICIOUS: Yes, we did it! At Effective Nutra we want to provide a healthy and enjoyable experience. Our saffron gummies are naturally berry flavored. With no artificial colors or flavors, you can be sure you’re getting the most nourishing health gummies out there!*
• EFFECTIVE NUTRA’S SEAL OF EXCELLENCE: QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST: Our supplements are Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Third Party Tested, GMP Certified and proudly Made in USA with Globally Sourced Ingredients. That’s the Effective Nutra seal of excellence!*

Saffron extract at the clinically studied 88.5 mg dose in a convenient sugar-free gummy format for mood and emotional balance support.

These gummies deliver 88.5 mg saffron extract alongside vitamin D2 and passion flower for comprehensive mood support. Saffron has been studied for its effects on serotonin reuptake, working through similar pathways as SSRIs — the first-line medication for OCD. The sugar-free formula makes these an excellent option for those who prefer gummies over capsules. Research has shown saffron can meaningfully support emotional balance and reduce repetitive negative thinking patterns.

• Pros:
• Clinically studied 88.5 mg saffron dose for serotonin support
• Sugar-free gummy format — easy and pleasant to take daily
• Added vitamin D2 and passion flower for comprehensive mood support

• Cons:
• Gummies may not suit those who prefer unflavored supplements
• Saffron research for OCD specifically is more limited than for depression

Best for: People who prefer a tasty gummy supplement targeting serotonin-related mood support

5. Pure Encapsulations Inositol Powder – Best Premium

Pure Encapsulations Inositol (Powder) – Supplement to Support Energy, Nervous System & Ovarian Function* – with Myo-Inositol – 8.8 Ounces

• High-Quality Myo-Inositol Supplement: Pure Encapsulations offers a pure and organic Myo-Inositol powder supplement to support ovarian function and wellness
• Nervous System Supplements: Our Myo-Inositol supplement is a natural energy supplement that supports serotonin levels and may help with mild and occasional nervous tension
• Allergen-Free Myo-Inositol Powder: Pure Encapsulations’ Myo-Inositol supplement is free from unnecessary additives and common allergens, including those commonly used in other supplement brands
• Supports Nervous System & Ovarian Health: Pure Encapsulations Myo-Inositol supplement supports healthy outlook, wellness, and behavior, as well as ovarian health
• Pure Difference: What we leave out matters, too; Pure Encapsulations products are FREE FROM common allergens, artificial or unnecessary ingredients, and GMOs

A pharmaceutical-grade myo-inositol powder from one of the most trusted professional supplement brands, ideal for reaching clinical doses.

Each scoop provides 4 grams of pure myo-inositol in a hypoallergenic powder format. Pure Encapsulations is widely recommended by integrative psychiatrists and is known for rigorous third-party testing and clean formulations free from unnecessary additives, gluten, and GMOs. The 8.8-ounce container provides approximately 62 servings. For OCD support, multiple daily scoops can achieve the 12–18 gram therapeutic range studied in clinical trials.

• Pros:
• Hypoallergenic, professional-grade formula trusted by practitioners
• 4 grams per scoop makes dose titration straightforward
• Free from common allergens, GMOs, and artificial additives

• Cons:
• Higher price point than other inositol powders
• Container may not last long at therapeutic OCD doses

Best for: Those who want a premium, practitioner-grade inositol with strict quality controls

6. Luma Nutrition Saffron Extract – Best Saffron Capsule

Luma Nutrition Saffron Extract Capsules – Premium Saffron Supplements – 88.50 mg Pure Saffron Pills – Mood Support – Eye Support – Made in The USA – 60 Capsules

• Potent & Effective – Elevate Health Naturally: Unleash the power of our natural saffron extract, a top-tier supplement for improved macular eye health, mood enhancer, brain support and energy support. Elevate your wellness journey with proven efficacy.
• Many Health Benefits: Our optimized saffron powder is used by many as an effective eye supplement for both men and women. It may also help support overall metabolic function for healthy weight management.
• Mood Boosting Marvel – Elevate Positivity: Transform your mood with Luma Nutrition saffron pills, a renowned mood support supplement. Embrace a natural mood boosting that promotes serotonin and positive energy support without the added sugar of Saffron gummies.
• Easy 1-Month Supply: Create a solid daily routine with Luma’s 30-day supply of premium saffron supplements for kids and adults. Makes the perfect monthly subscription! Always stay in stock and save money at the same time!
• USA-Made Excellence – Veteran Owned: Trust Luma Nutrition’s saffron capsules, crafted in GMP certified US facilities. We’re family-owned, committed to quality, and here to support your well-being journey.

A pure saffron extract capsule delivering the researched 88.5 mg dose per serving for targeted serotonin and mood support.

Luma Nutrition’s saffron supplement provides a standardized 88.5 mg saffron extract in easy-to-swallow capsules. Saffron’s active compounds — crocin and safranal — influence serotonin metabolism, which is directly relevant to OCD pathology since serotonin dysregulation is a key driver of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. This clean, focused formula contains no unnecessary fillers and is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility. Those exploring saffron supplements for mood will find this among the most potent options available.

• Pros:
• Precisely dosed at 88.5 mg — matching clinical research protocols
• Clean, single-ingredient formula for targeted serotonin support
• GMP-certified manufacturing with third-party testing

• Cons:
• Single-ingredient approach may require stacking with other supplements
• Saffron can interact with certain medications — check with a provider

Best for: Those seeking a dedicated saffron supplement for serotonin pathway support

7. Momentous Inositol – Best NSF Certified

Momentous Inositol Supplement – Myo-Inositol for Mood Balance, Cognitive Function, & Rest Quality Support – Vegan – GMO- & Gluten-Free – NSF Certified for Sport – 60 Servings

• Cellular & Metabolic Support – Inositol is a naturally-occurring carbohydrate involved in numerous cellular processes, including maintaining cell membrane structure & supporting brain communication. It plays a key role in neurotransmitter activity, influencing mood regulation & overall cellular health.
• Supports Mood & Sleep Quality – Our high-quality myo-inositol formula supports mood balance & promotes calm by influencing the activity of neurotransmitters. Additionally, as a precursor to melatonin, inositol aids in maintaining healthy sleep patterns.
• Maximize Use – For best results, take 1 serving 30-60 minutes prior to sleep. Inositol is designed for use 3-4 nights per week or as needed to support sleep quality & help you fall back asleep if you wake up during the night.
• Naturally-Sourced & Effective – Sourced from natural foods like whole grains, beans, & citrus fruits, inositol is an integral component of cell membranes & plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including fat metabolism & calcium balance within cells.
• Crafted by Experts – We work with some of the greatest minds in science & athletic performance who tap into the latest research & real-world experience to design products with 1 common goal – to help you be your best.

An NSF Certified for Sport myo-inositol powder designed for mood balance, cognitive function, and sleep quality support.

Momentous brings pharmaceutical-level quality control to its inositol supplement, backed by NSF Certified for Sport verification — one of the most rigorous third-party testing standards available. This powder format supports flexible dosing for mood and cognitive support, and inositol’s role as a serotonin second-messenger makes it particularly relevant for OCD. The 60-serving container is designed for use 3–4 nights per week or daily as needed.

• Pros:
• NSF Certified for Sport — highest level of third-party testing
• Supports mood, cognitive function, and sleep — all relevant to OCD management
• Clean, well-formulated powder from a respected performance brand

• Cons:
• Premium pricing compared to basic inositol powders
• 60 servings may deplete quickly at higher therapeutic doses

Best for: Quality-conscious consumers who want the assurance of NSF certification

8. NOW Foods Inositol 500 mg Capsules – Best Capsule Inositol

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A convenient capsule form of myo-inositol for those who prefer not to use powder but still want targeted serotonin signaling support.

These vegetarian capsules deliver 500 mg of myo-inositol per capsule in a 200-count bottle. While capsule forms require more pills to reach clinical doses compared to powders, they offer portability and convenience for daily supplementation. NOW Foods’ GMP-certified production ensures consistent potency and purity. Inositol capsules work well for maintenance dosing or as part of a broader supplement stack for anxiety and depression support.

• Pros:
• Convenient capsule format — no mixing or measuring required
• 200-count bottle provides solid long-term value
• Trusted NOW Foods manufacturing and quality standards

• Cons:
• Reaching clinical OCD doses (12–18g) requires many capsules daily
• Capsule form is less cost-efficient than powder for high-dose use

Best for: Those who prefer capsules over powder and want moderate inositol supplementation

9. Life Extension Inositol Caps 1000 mg – Best High-Dose Capsule

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A higher-dose inositol capsule at 1,000 mg per cap, reducing the number of pills needed to reach therapeutic levels.

Life Extension packs 1,000 mg of myo-inositol into each vegetarian capsule, with 360 capsules per bottle. This dosage makes it more practical to approach research-level doses for OCD support — 12 capsules would reach the 12-gram starting range. Life Extension is renowned for science-driven formulations and rigorous quality control, including third-party testing and Certificate of Analysis availability.

• Pros:
• 1,000 mg per capsule — fewer pills needed to reach clinical doses
• 360-capsule bottle offers exceptional long-term value
• Life Extension’s reputation for evidence-based, high-quality supplements

• Cons:
• Still requires 12–18 capsules daily for full clinical OCD doses
• Large capsule size may be difficult for some to swallow

Best for: Those who want a capsule-based inositol with higher per-unit dosing and excellent value

How to Choose the Best Supplements for OCD

The two most researched supplements for OCD are N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and myo-inositol. NAC works by modulating glutamate levels in the brain — an excitatory neurotransmitter linked to the repetitive thought patterns characteristic of OCD. Clinical research has used doses of 2,400–3,000 mg per day with positive results. Inositol works through a different mechanism, enhancing serotonin second-messenger signaling at doses of 12–18 grams daily. Some individuals find benefit in combining both approaches for comprehensive neurotransmitter support.

When selecting a supplement, consider the dosage form that best fits your routine. Powder forms are more practical for high-dose inositol since reaching 12–18 grams through capsules requires swallowing many pills. For NAC, standard 600 mg capsules work well since 4–5 capsules reach the clinical dose range. Saffron supplements offer a complementary approach through serotonin reuptake modulation and can be combined with NAC or inositol.

Look for products manufactured in GMP-certified facilities with third-party testing. Brands like NOW Foods, Pure Encapsulations, Life Extension, and Momentous maintain rigorous quality standards. Avoid products with excessive fillers, artificial colors, or proprietary blends that obscure actual ingredient amounts.

These supplements work best as part of a comprehensive OCD management plan that includes evidence-based therapy such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and, when appropriate, medication. Always discuss supplement use with a healthcare provider, especially if taking SSRIs or other psychiatric medications, as some supplements can interact with these drugs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What supplements have the most research for OCD?

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and myo-inositol have the most clinical research for OCD support. NAC modulates glutamate levels at doses of 2,400–3,000 mg daily, while inositol enhances serotonin signaling at doses of 12–18 grams daily. Saffron extract at 88.5 mg has also shown promise for mood-related conditions through its effects on serotonin metabolism.

How much inositol should you take for OCD?

Clinical research has used 12–18 grams of myo-inositol per day for OCD, typically divided into two doses. Start with a lower dose (2–4 grams) and gradually increase over several weeks to minimize GI side effects like bloating. Powder forms are the most practical for reaching these higher doses.

Can NAC help with OCD intrusive thoughts?

NAC has shown potential in reducing OCD symptoms by modulating glutamate — an excitatory neurotransmitter associated with repetitive thinking. A 2012 randomized controlled trial found that NAC at 2,400 mg daily alongside standard medication significantly improved OCD symptoms compared to placebo. Results may take 8–12 weeks to become noticeable.

Are OCD supplements safe to take with SSRIs?

NAC is generally considered safe alongside SSRIs, as it works through a different mechanism (glutamate vs. serotonin). Inositol may work best as a standalone treatment rather than added to SSRIs, based on available research. Saffron and St. John’s Wort can interact with serotonergic medications and should only be used under medical supervision. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements with prescription medications.

How long do OCD supplements take to work?

Most OCD supplements require consistent use for 8–12 weeks before meaningful effects are noticed. NAC typically shows gradual improvements over 2–3 months. Inositol may produce noticeable changes within 6–8 weeks at therapeutic doses. Individual responses vary significantly, and supplements should be viewed as part of a broader treatment approach rather than a quick fix.

Can supplements replace therapy or medication for OCD?

Supplements should complement — not replace — evidence-based OCD treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and, when indicated, medication. Research supports supplements as adjunctive tools that may enhance outcomes or provide additional support, particularly for those who have not fully responded to standard treatments alone.

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