Over the past year, Dutch legislation has significantly reshaped the market for psychoactive substances. On July 1, 2025, new legislation took effect that banned entire categories of designer drugs, including synthetic cathinones, synthetic cannabinoids, and fentanyl-like substances. This change marked the end of an era in which new variants kept appearing on the market as soon as a substance was banned.
At the same time, news broke in November 2025 that the Public Prosecutor’s Office had launched an investigation into 49 deaths that may have been linked to the illegal online sale of designer drugs and medications. These developments have made many people think about the risks of unregulated substances and the value of safe, legal alternatives.
The question on many people’s minds now is: what are the alternatives for those seeking energy, focus, relaxation, or better sleep? The answer lies closer to nature than you might think. In this blog, we’ll take you through natural supplements and herbs that offer a safe and legal alternative.
The new legislation: what changed in 2025?
The legislation that took effect on July 1, 2025, marked a fundamental shift in the approach to designer drugs. Instead of banning individual substances, entire chemical families were placed on Schedule IA of the Opium Act. This meant that:
- Synthetic cathinones (such as 2-MMC and 3-MMC) were completely banned
- Synthetic cannabinoids (such as Spice and various variants) fell under the law
- Fentanyl-like substances could no longer be sold legally
Notably, some categories remained legal, including natural psychedelics such as LSA seeds, salvia divinorum, and psilocybin-containing truffles. Natural energy boosters and herbs also remained fully legal.
Why people choose natural alternatives
The shift toward natural products isn’t just due to legislation. More and more people are realizing that natural supplements and herbs offer benefits that designer drugs can’t match:
- Transparency: with natural products, you know what’s in them. The ingredient list is clear, without mysterious chemical formulas
- Research: many natural substances such as caffeine, L-theanine, and melatonin have been extensively studied
- Legality: no worries about changing laws or legal risks
- Safety: When dosed and used correctly, natural supplements are generally safer than synthetic alternatives
- No cat-and-mouse game: no new variants that keep getting banned
It is important to emphasize that natural supplements are not medical miracle cures, but they can offer support to people looking for moments when they want to be sharp, relax, or simply feel good about themselves again.
Energy and focus: the natural boost
For people who previously turned to stimulant designer drugs for energy while partying or studying, there are now plenty of natural options. The Happy Caps series is one of the most popular lines of natural energizers in the Netherlands. These capsules contain combinations of well-known nootropics such as caffeine, L-theanine, Rhodiola Rosea, and ginseng.
What exactly are nootropics? They are natural substances traditionally used for moments when you want to stay focused. Think of caffeine from coffee—technically, that’s also a nootropic. The combination of various natural ingredients can support you during intense periods, whether you’re studying, working, or planning a night out.
For example, the Party-E capsules are designed for people who want to go out for the evening, while Brain-E is more geared toward people who want to stay sharp while working or studying. The great thing is that you can choose exactly what suits your situation.
Relaxation without risks
On the other end of the spectrum, there are people who are actually looking for moments of calm. For those who previously turned to synthetic downers, natural herbs offer an interesting alternative. The category of relaxation products has a rich tradition dating back to ancient times.
Products like Relax-E contain GABA and natural herbs that can help you unwind after a busy day. The Blue Lotus, a sacred plant from ancient Egypt, has been used for centuries to promote moments of contemplation and calm.
Other options, such as ZenX capsules, contain a blend of passionflower, valerian, and hops—all herbs with a long history of traditional use. The beauty of these natural options is that they can support you without the unpredictability of synthetic alternatives.
Sleep and recover naturally
One of the biggest problems after using stimulants is often sleep deprivation. Many people who previously used illegal sleep aids are now discovering the value of melatonin —a natural hormone that your body produces on its own when it gets dark.
Melatonin tablets are now widely available and have been scientifically studied. They can help you fall asleep faster and regulate your sleep rhythm, which is especially helpful after night shifts or when dealing with jet lag. A major advantage over illegal sleep aids is that melatonin is not addictive and you won’t wake up groggy the next day.
For recovery after a party or night out, there are after-party supplements that can support your body. Products containing 5-HTP, a precursor to serotonin, are often used to help you feel good again after a wild night. L-tryptophan and L-tyrosine are amino acids that your body uses to produce neurotransmitters—the messengers in your brain.
Nootropics: for moments when you want to stay sharp
The term “nootropics” is becoming increasingly popular, but what exactly are they? They are substances—often natural—that can support you during moments when you need to stay focused. Think of students during exam week, professionals with an important deadline, or gamers during an intense session.
The concentration category at Dutch-Smart includes various products suitable for this purpose. The Study Pill, for example, contains a combination of L-theanine, DMAE, Rhodiola Rosea, and CDP-choline—all substances that have emerged in research as promising for cognitive support.
FLVX capsules combine the well-known duo of caffeine and L-theanine—a combination that is scientifically interesting because L-theanine can mitigate the jittery effects of caffeine while maintaining alertness. This synergistic effect is a great example of why natural combinations can sometimes be more effective than individual ingredients.
Safety and Responsible Use
Even though natural supplements are generally safer than designer drugs, it’s important to use them responsibly. Here are some key guidelines:
- Follow the recommended dosage: more isn’t always better. The dosage on the packaging is there for a reason
- Combine wisely: not all supplements can be safely combined. Always read the warnings
- Not a substitute for medical treatment: natural supplements are not medicines. Always consult a doctor if you have serious symptoms
- Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding: unless explicitly stated to be safe
- Check for interactions: Are you taking any medications? If so, consult your doctor or pharmacist first
- Give yourself a break: even natural supplements aren’t a magic cure. A healthy lifestyle with enough sleep, good nutrition, and exercise remains the foundation
It’s also important to realize that everyone reacts differently to supplements. What works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another. Always start with the lowest effective dose and listen to your body.
The future: natural and legal
The shift toward natural alternatives is more than just a reaction to legislation. It is part of a broader trend in which people are becoming more conscious of what they put into their bodies. The transparency of natural products, the scientific evidence supporting many traditional herbs, and the lack of legal risks make them an attractive alternative.
For people who previously used designer drugs for energy, focus, relaxation, or sleep, the world of natural supplements offers plenty of options. From the Happy Caps series for various purposes, to melatonin for sleep and nootropics for mental sharpness—there’s a natural alternative for every need.
The new legislation has sent a clear message: synthetic designer drugs have no place in a safe society. But that doesn’t mean people no longer have access to substances that can support them in their daily lives. Nature offers a wealth of possibilities, and with the right knowledge and responsibility, you can safely experiment with them.
Want to learn more about specific products? Check out our extensive range of energy boosters, relaxation products, concentration supplements, and health supplements. At Dutch-Smart, you’ll find only legal, safe products with transparent ingredient lists.
