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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
B-Complex wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Probably helps
5 of 8 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Probably helps
2 of 3 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
1 capsule daily (per label)
Morning with breakfast
Methylated B-complex (methylcobalamin, methylfolate)
300-600mg extract
As needed for anxiety, 30-60 minutes before bed for sleep
Standardized extract capsules
2-4 weeks
4-8 weeks
Immediate
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
2-4 weeks
Dosage exploration of combined B-vitamin supplementation in stroke prevention: a meta-analysis and systematic review
The American journal of clinical nutrition (2024) · Meta analysis · n=76664
In areas without and with partial folic acid fortification, combined B-vitamin supplementation significantly reduced the risk of stroke by 34% [RR: 0.66; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.50, 0.86] and 11% (RR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.79, 1.00), respectively.
A Comparative Study Evaluating the Effectiveness of Folate-Based B Vitamin Intervention on Cognitive Function of Older Adults under Mandatory Folic Acid Fortification Policy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Nutrients (2024) · Meta analysis · n=42768
The meta-analysis on the effects of folate-based B vitamin supplementation on cognitive function showed a significant overall impact (Z = 3.84; p = 0.0001; SMD, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.09, 0.28).
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of B Vitamin Supplementation on Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety, and Stress: Effects on Healthy and 'At-Risk' Individuals
Nutrients (2019) · Meta analysis · n=2015
Regarding individual facets of mood, B vitamin supplementation benefited stress (n = 958, SMD = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.45, p = 0.03).
The effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) on depression and anxiety in clinical trials: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2021) · Meta analysis
Based on meta-analysis results, lemon balm significantly improved mean anxiety and depression scores compared with the placebo (SMD: -0.98; 95% CI: -1.63 to -0.33; p = 0.003), (SMD: -0.47; 95% CI: -0.73 to -0.21; p = 0.0005) respectively, without serious side effects.
Herbal Remedies and Their Possible Effect on the GABAergic System and Sleep
Nutrients (2021) · Systematic review
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that plays a major role in controlling different vigilance states.
Effects of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) on cardio-metabolic outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2020) · Meta analysis
Random-effects meta-analyses estimated the pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) between intervention and control groups.
Multiple meta-analyses show small but statistically significant benefits for cognitive function in older adults and stroke prevention populations. Effect sizes are modest (SMD ~0.15-0.18). Benefits may be more pronounced in B-vitamin deficient populations.
Based on meta-analysis showing significant improvement in anxiety and depression scores (SMD: -0.98 for anxiety, -0.47 for depression). Effect sizes suggest moderate clinical benefit. Limited number of trials with small sample sizes reduce confidence.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
B-Complex has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 8.5/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For reduce anxiety & stress, Lemon Balm has a higher relevance score (80 vs 50).
No known interactions between B-Complex and Lemon Balm have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.