Evidence supporting the use of: GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
For the health condition: Nervous Exhaustion

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, playing a key role in reducing neuronal excitability and promoting relaxation. The term "nervous exhaustion" is not a formal medical diagnosis, but is often used to describe symptoms of chronic stress, anxiety, or burnout, where nervous system activity is heightened and individuals experience fatigue, irritability, and difficulty relaxing.

There is some scientific rationale for using GABA to support symptoms associated with nervous exhaustion, primarily due to its calming effect on the brain. Animal and in vitro studies have shown that GABA supplementation can reduce anxiety-like behavior and promote relaxation. In humans, small clinical trials suggest that oral GABA may have mild anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and stress-reducing effects, such as lowering markers of stress after challenging tasks or improving relaxation as measured by EEG.

However, the evidence is limited by several factors: the blood-brain barrier restricts the entry of GABA from supplements into the brain, and many studies are small or of low methodological quality. While GABA’s theoretical role in calming the nervous system is well-established, the effectiveness of oral GABA supplements for "nervous exhaustion" specifically is not robustly supported by clinical trials. Thus, while there is some scientific basis, the overall level of evidence supporting its use for this condition is weak, corresponding to a rating of 2 on the scale.

More about GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
More about Nervous Exhaustion