Home » Nature’s Way Review: Should You Still Trust This Old-School Brand?

Nature’s Way Review: Should You Still Trust This Old-School Brand?

Nature's Way Review

Nature's Way offers various products designed to support physical, mental, and immune health. The brand's product line highlights multiple fitness needs like nutrition gaps, digestive health, and sleep.

The brand offers an extensive catalog that includes elderberry-based immune gummies, high-potency multivitamins, herbal combinations for mood support, and digestion-focused options like ginger root and enzymes.

In this review, we will explore the product options available by Nature's Way, along with the brand's advantages, pros and cons, and potential limitations. We will also compare Nature's Way with similar brands to help you make an informed choice.

About Nature's Way

Nature's Way is a U.S.-based supplement company that develops a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and herbal formulas.

Owned by Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co. KG, the brand focuses on plant-based and science-informed products across categories like immune support, digestion, energy, stress, and bone health.

Its product categories feature a wide variety of supplements, including multivitamins, single herbs, botanical blends, and probiotics. Notable product lines include Alive!® multivitamins, Fortify® and Probiotic Pearls® for gut health, Sambucus for immunity, and Umcka® for cold relief.

As per the official website, Nature's Way sources its ingredients from global suppliers, often selecting non-GMO and organic options when available.

The brand states that all its products are made under the current Good Manufacturing Practices and are also certified by NSF's third-party GMP program (NSF/ANSI 455-2).

Nature's Way states that each raw material and finished product undergoes chemical and microbiological testing to confirm label accuracy and compliance with safety standards such as California's Proposition 65.

Nature's Way Review

Nature's Way Best Sellers

  1. CalmAid

    CalmAid by Nature's Way could help you manage occasional anxiety, stress, and tension. It includes Silexan, a clinically studied, non-habit-forming lavender oil extract derived from Lavandula angustifolia. The makers state that CalmAid could help promote a sense of calm while allowing you to stay alert and clear-headed throughout the day. According to the official website, CalmAid provides 80 mg of Silexan lavender oil, which might help reduce symptoms of mild anxiety and tension without the sedative effects. The formulation only contains essential oils and ingredients like canola oil, gelatin, glycerin, and sorbitol. The makers suggest taking one CalmAid softgel once or twice daily with a full glass of water, and it can be taken with or without food.

  2. Calcium & Vitamin D3

    Nature's Way features a Calcium & Vitamin D3 formula, which could support bone health by delivering a potent combination of essential nutrients. It features a highly absorbable, 100% citrate-based calcium, known for its superior bioavailability, paired with vitamin D3 and magnesium. Calcium may help in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, while vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption in the body. The addition of magnesium in this formula might support bone metabolism, muscle function, and mineral balance.

    Calcium & Vitamin D3 by Nature's Way also includes boron, a trace mineral that assists in your body's effective use of both calcium and magnesium. The calcium & Vitamin D3 formula also provides 1,000 mg of calcium, 25 mcg (1,000 IU) of vitamin D3, 40 mg of magnesium, and 250 mcg of boron per two tablespoons.

  3. Alive!® Men's 50+ Ultra Multivitamin

    According to the official website, Nature's Way Alive! Men's 50+ Complete Multivitamin can help support your heart, muscle, eye, bone, immune, thyroid, and cellular health. The makers state that this formula may also support energy metabolism and cognitive function.

    Alive! Men's 50+ Complete Multivitamin also contains Vitamin D3 (50mcg), Vitamin C (203mcg), and Vitamin B12 (90mcg), all of which are important for immune health, bone strength, and energy production.

    The makers also added a 10 mg food-based antioxidant blend in Nature's Way Alive! Men's 50+ Complete Multivitamin, derived from pomegranate, blueberry, spinach, carrot, and apple extracts. These ingredients might help fight oxidative stress and support cellular health. The multivitamin also contains botanical elements like lutein and lycopene, known for their roles in supporting eye and prostate health, respectively.

  4. Joint Movement Glucosamine

    Joint Movement Glucosamine by Nature's Way may support flexibility, mobility, and joint comfort. It could support joint structure and function, including 2,000 mg of glucosamine hydrochloride, 1,200 mg of chondroitin sulfate, 500 mg of MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and 10 mg of hyaluronic acid per two tablespoons.

    As per the official website, Joint Movement Glucosamine contains 400 IU (10 mcg) of vitamin D3, which may support bone strength and muscle function. It could also help nourish cartilage, promote cushioning in joints, and assist in maintaining the fluid necessary for smooth joint movement. Joint Movement Glucosamine comes in a berry-flavored liquid form, which makes it easier for you if you have difficulty swallowing pills or capsules.

  5. Sambucus Immune Gummy

    Nature's Way claims that its Sambucus Immune Gummies can support your immune system with the help of elderberry extract, vitamin C, vitamin D3, and zinc. These gummies offer a convenient way for adults and children over the age of 4 to incorporate immune-boosting nutrients into their daily routine.

    Sambucus Immune Gummies contain 50 mg of standardized elderberry extract, which is derived from 3,200 mg of high-quality black elderberries. This extract is rich in anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid known for its antioxidant activity that may help fight off harmful free radicals in the body.  These gummies also contain vitamin C, vitamin D3, and zinc. Vitamin C in this formula might support white blood cell function, vitamin D enhances immune response, and zinc supports immune cell development and communication.

  6. Chlorofresh Liquid Chlorophyll

    According to the manufacturer, Chlorofresh Liquid Chlorophyll might support antioxidant activity and neutralize free radicals in your body. This formula has a water-soluble form of chlorophyll known as chlorophyllin copper complex, which is derived from premium botanicals and stabilized with copper. The copper may help to maintain the stability of the chlorophyll, and also contributes to your body's natural collagen production and healthy skin maintenance.

    The makers state that Chlorofresh Liquid Chlorophyll might help detoxify and freshen your body from within. It could help reduce body odor and promote a fresh feeling throughout the day.

    Chlorofresh Liquid Chlorophyll may provide 132 mg of chlorophyllin per 2-tablespoon (1-ounce) serving, along with 6 mg of copper. Each serving also provides 70 calories and 16 grams of carbohydrates. It is available in both mint-flavored and unflavored varieties.

  7. Organic MCT Oil

    Organic MCT Oil by Nature's Way may support energy and metabolism through the use of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Extracted solely from premium organic coconuts, this product contains no palm oil or filler oils. MCTs, especially caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10), which are the primary components of this oil, are known for their ability to be rapidly absorbed and then converted into energy by the liver.

    As per the official website, each tablespoon (15 mL) of Organic MCT Oil provides 14 grams of saturated fat derived from pure MCTs, with approximately 7.7 grams of caprylic acid and 4 grams of capric acid. As MCTs are metabolized quickly, they provide a fast source of fuel for both the brain and body, helping to support mental clarity, workout performance, and endurance. They may also help promote feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.

  8. Blood Sugar Manager

    Nature's Way Blood Sugar Manager is designed to support healthy blood sugar metabolism using botanicals and vitamin A. This formula features cinnamon, gymnema, fenugreek, bitter melon, bilberry, and ginger, all known for their potential to aid in glucose regulation.

    According to the official website, Blood Sugar Manager (3 capsules) delivers 400 mg of cinnamon bark, widely recognized for its critical role in improving insulin sensitivity. The makers added gymnema leaf extract (250 mg), which might help suppress sugar cravings and reduce intestinal sugar absorption.

    Fenugreek seed extract (210 mg) in Blood Sugar Manager is rich in soluble fiber, which may help slow down carbohydrate digestion and support stable blood sugar levels. This formula also features bitter melon fruit extract (150 mg), which is known for mimicking insulin's effects. Blood Sugar Manager by Nature's Way has bilberry leaf (100 mg) and ginger root (15 mg), which might contribute antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support.

Nature's Way Advantages

  1. Pioneering Herbal Standardization

    Nature's Way highlights using DNA-based TRU-ID testing to verify that the herbal ingredients listed on the label are actually present in the product. This means you're less likely to end up with mislabeled or substituted ingredients, a common issue in the herbal supplement space. This kind of verification helps reduce the risk of taking something ineffective or unwanted, especially if you're using herbs for specific health concerns or sensitivities. The brand also makes it easier for you to track how a particular supplement affects you over time by maintaining consistency across batches.

  2. Offers A Comprehensive Multivitamins Range

    Nature's Way includes a wide selection of multivitamins under its Alive! Product line, offering demographic-specific options such as formulas for men, women, and adults over 50. These supplements may typically provide 100% or more of the daily recommended intake for at least 18 essential nutrients, including B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin D. Nature's Way also extends its multivitamin offerings to children through products like Premium Kids Gummy Multivitamins and chewables. This structured product segmentation reflects the brand's focus on tailoring nutritional support based on age and life stage, which may help meet varied physiological needs more precisely.

Nature's Way Limitations

  1. Limited Clinical Research on Formulas

    Nature's Way uses herbal ingredients like elderberry, echinacea, and ashwagandha in several of its formulations, citing historical use in traditional medicine systems. However, many of these products highlight traditional efficacy without being consistently supported by large-scale, peer-reviewed clinical trials.

    While the brand uses quality verification methods like TRU-ID testing for ingredient authenticity, it does not always offer strong, modern scientific backing for product effectiveness. If you're looking for supplements with robust clinical validation, such as those often found in practitioner-focused brands like Metagenics, Nature's Way may not fully meet those evidence-based expectations.

  2. Previous Regulatory and Labeling Concerns

    Nature's Way has a history of regulatory and labeling issues, such as mislabeling a devil's claw supplement and including herbs not recommended during pregnancy. These incidents suggest past lapses in quality control and product safety oversight. As a result, you may need to be more cautious when selecting the brand's offerings, especially if you're pregnant, managing a condition, or relying on specific herbal ingredients. While the brand has since strengthened its quality practices, these past concerns can still affect your trust in product accuracy and may require closer scrutiny of labels and third-party certifications.

Nature's Way Alternatives

  1. Gaia Herbs

    Nature's Way and Gaia Herbs differ significantly in product range, brand philosophy, manufacturing practices, and price positioning.

    Gaia Herbs offers a curated selection of around 60 herbal supplements, primarily focused on single herbs such as Ashwagandha, Lion's Mane, Rhodiola, Black Elderberry, and Holy Basil. These products are typically formulated around specific wellness goals like brain function, immune support, stress relief, and sleep. The brand emphasizes herb-specific options and also offers blends in formats like liquid phyto-caps, tinctures, gummies, powders, and herbal kits.

    Meanwhile, Nature's Way has a much broader product portfolio, with over 400–500 options, including not only herbs but also multivitamins, minerals, probiotics, enzymes, and specialty products. It also has several sub-brands like Alive!® for multivitamins, Fortify® for probiotics, Sambucus® for elderberry, and Umcka® for cold and flu remedies.

    Gaia Herbs, however, positions itself in the premium segment. A product like Lion's Mane capsules or gummies ranges from $25 to $30, while menopause products like Menopause Support Daytime and Menopause Support Nightime are available for $30.59. Nature's Way, on the other hand, covers a broader price spectrum. Products like single vitamins or herbal capsules, such as Sambucus Vitamin C Lozenges, are priced at $6.99, while advanced probiotic formulas or bundles can range from $25 to over $100.

    Gaia Herbs operates a Regenerative Organic Certified farm in North Carolina and manufactures all products in an ISO-certified facility. It maintains a strong commitment to sustainability, transparency, and ingredient traceability. Most of its products are USDA Organic, like the Lion Mane Mushroom formula. Nature's Way also maintains high standards but at a larger industrial scale. It was the first supplement brand to achieve NSF-certified GMP status and adhere to Proposition 65 regulations. While it sources ingredients globally, it ensures quality through rigorous testing, including identity verification and microbiological screening, all conducted in-house.

  2. Thorne

    Thorne's lineup includes vitamins, minerals, amino acids, specialty blends, and sports-focused products like Super EPA, PharmaGABA, Creatine, and SynaQuell. It also offers lab-based test kits and bundles for specific goals like sleep, training, and healthy aging. The brand claims to focus on more targeted formulations designed for specific functions like cognitive health, detox, and methylation. Nature's Way, on the other hand, leans more into general wellness and herbal support. Its offerings include multivitamins, probiotics, antioxidant blends, and single-ingredient herbal products like ashwagandha and ginger. These come in various forms, like capsules, tablets, gummies, powders, liquids, lozenges, and travel packs, making them more accessible to a broader audience.

    Thorne claims that its products are manufactured in a facility certified by cGMP, NSF for Sport®, and Australia's TGA. It highlights that its products undergo multiple rounds of in-house testing, and the company avoids unnecessary fillers. As per its official website, Thorne offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee on most U.S. retail products, though it excludes test kits. Open product returns require medical documentation, and restocking fees may apply. On the other hand, Nature's Way offers a 45-day return window with fewer restrictions, but clearance and soon-to-expire products are excluded. You'll need proof of purchase, and returns must be shipped at your expense. Thorne's policy is longer but more controlled, while Nature's Way's is shorter and simpler for most users.

    Thorne focuses on function-specific supplements with a clinical edge, including health tests and targeted blends, while Nature's Way covers a broader wellness range with herbal and nutritional products in user-friendly formats.

Pros

  • Adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for production quality.
  • Offers a wide product range including multivitamins, herbs, probiotics, oils, and more.

Cons

  • The brand's formulations might cause digestive issues or allergic reactions.
  • You could find the brand's offerings costly.

How Did We Evaluate Nature's Way?

  1. Brand Reputation

    To assess Nature's Way, we considered several key factors, such as the brand's history, reputation, and third-party review platforms. Nature's Way has been around since 1969, giving it over 50 years of experience in the supplement industry, a strong indicator of staying power and customer trust. Its long-standing presence also reflects a consistent demand for its products.

    We looked at third-party ratings to analyze customer satisfaction and business ethics. Nature's Way holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which suggests reliable customer service and complaint handling. However, the brand isn't listed on Trustpilot.

  2. Refund Policy

    We evaluated Nature's Way's refund policy based on how accessible, flexible, and consumer-friendly it is. The brand offers a 45-day satisfaction guarantee if you purchase directly from their website or an authorized U.S. seller. This shows a baseline level of confidence in their product quality.

    However, you need to provide proof of purchase to return the product at your own expense, and you must meet the 45-day deadline. The policy excludes clearance, short-dated or expired items, and returns that are subject to monitoring for abuse. Nature's Way also reserves the right to deny refund requests at its discretion, which may be a drawback for some users. Overall, we see the policy as fair but somewhat rigid. It reflects a quality-first mindset but also places a fair amount of responsibility on you as the customer if you want a refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are Nature's Way supplements third-party tested for contaminants like heavy metals?
    Nature's Way doesn't publicly disclose third-party testing results for each batch. While they do emphasize quality control, if third-party testing is important to you, it's best to reach out directly and request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for the specific product you're using.
  • Why do some Nature's Way bottles have different lid colors or label designs?
    Nature's Way uses different packaging colors to signify product lines (like herbal vs. vitamins). Label changes may also reflect rebranding or reformulation, but they can be confusing if you're used to a certain version.
  • Is there a risk of over-supplementation with Nature's Way multivitamins?
    Yes. Nature's Way claims that its multivitamins, like Alive! Women's Complete Multivitamin contains 100 %+ of the RDA for certain nutrients like vitamin C. If you're also getting vitamins from your diet or other supplements, there's a chance of overuse.

Conclusion

Nature's Way focuses on supplements, including essential vitamins, minerals, and herbal formulations. The brand emphasizes botanical ingredients, transparency in sourcing, and quality control measures such as DNA-based ingredient verification. Nature's Way's product lines, including the Alive! Multivitamins are designed to meet varied nutritional needs across different life stages.

However, Nature's Way relies on traditional herbal use without extensive clinical research to fully support the effectiveness of its products. Past regulatory and labeling issues also suggest the need for careful review, especially if you are pregnant, managing health conditions, or sensitive to certain ingredients.

When considering Nature's Way, it is advisable to review its product labels carefully and consult doctors as needed. Remember that supporting your fitness with a diet that contains whole foods, regular exercise, and other natural lifestyle practices can be more helpful in the long run.

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This project was supported in part by NSF Grant IIS-03-25867 (ITR: An Electronic Field Guide: Plant Exploration and Discovery in the 21st Century) and by the Washington Biologists' Field Club.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official views, opinions, or policy of the National Science Foundation (NSF).