There is some scientific evidence supporting the use of inositol (myo-inositol), which is a component of phosphatidyl inositol, for anxiety disorders. Clinical studies, though limited in number and size, have shown that inositol supplementation may have beneficial effects on certain anxiety-related conditions. Notably, a small number of randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that inositol can reduce symptoms in patients with panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), both of which fall under the broader category of anxiety disorders. For example, a double-blind controlled trial published in the American Journal of Psychiatry (Levine et al., 1995) found that 18 grams/day of inositol reduced the frequency and severity of panic attacks compared to placebo. Another study suggested benefits for OCD symptoms.

The mechanism of action is thought to involve modulation of the phosphatidylinositol second-messenger system, which plays a role in neurotransmitter signaling in the brain, potentially influencing serotonin pathways implicated in anxiety disorders. However, most research has focused on myo-inositol rather than phosphatidyl inositol specifically, and studies are limited by small sample sizes and short durations. Major guidelines do not currently recommend inositol as a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. Therefore, while there is some scientific validation, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is modest, warranting a score of 2 out of 5.