DAY, DATE MONTH 2025

ARTICLE BY MO WELLNESS HUB X THE MARIGOLD MENDER

NATUROPATHIC SUPPORT FOR ADHD

ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that typically begins in early childhood but can continue into adulthood. In Australia, it affects an estimated 6-10% of children and teens, and around 2-6% of adults.

There is no single cause of ADHD. Instead, there are a combination of potential genetic, environmental, and physiological factors. These may include genetics (with an estimated 74% heritability), low birth weight, nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, omega-3, magnesium, and an imbalanced zinc-to-copper ratio), exposure to lead, prenatal exposure to tobacco or alcohol, gut microbiome imbalances, and early life emotional or physical trauma.

Common ADHD symptoms include difficulty paying attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. This might look like forgetfulness, restlessness, difficulty focusing, or acting without thinking. These symptoms stem from differences in brain chemistry, particularly low activity in dopamine and norepinephrine pathways. These neurotransmitters help to regulate focus, motivation, and self-control. In ADHD, underactivity in areas like the prefrontal cortex means the brain processes information differently, not due to laziness, but because of genuine neurobiological differences.

How Can Naturopathy Help?

When looking at supporting someone with ADHD, a naturopath will look at the case holistically by assessing what factors may be contributing to or sustaining symptoms, and attempting to address those wherever possible. For example, are there any nutritional deficiencies present, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, or omega-3? Supplementing with these nutrients, especially when there is a deficiency present, has been shown to reduce the severity of ADHD symptoms in some cases.

Another key area is gut health. Gut dysbiosis is an imbalance in the gut microbiome that can contribute to ADHD by triggering a cascade of inflammatory and neurological effects. When beneficial microbes decline and harmful ones overgrow, the gut lining can become more permeable (“leaky”), allowing microbial toxins to enter the bloodstream. This activates the immune system and can lead to systemic inflammation that crosses the blood-brain barrier, causing neuroinflammation (inflammation in the brain). This can disrupt neurotransmitter balance (like dopamine and serotonin), impair brain function, and worsen ADHD symptoms. Dysbiosis also reduces short-chain fatty acids (like butyrate), which normally help regulate inflammation and support brain health.

Herbal Medicines for ADHD Support

Naturopaths have access to supportive herbal medicines that have shown promise for supporting ADHD symptoms:

· Saffron (Crocus sativus)

Active compounds like crocin and safranal appear to improve ADHD symptoms by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels, similar to the action of stimulant medications. It also shows calming, mood-lifting, and sleep-supportive effects through GABA modulation and NMDA receptor activity.

· Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

A traditional Ayurvedic herb that supports memory, focus, and calm. It enhances neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, serotonin, and GABA, reduces oxidative stress, and supports mitochondrial function in the brain, helping with clarity and cognitive resilience.

· Ginkgo biloba:

Increases cerebral blood flow, modulates dopamine and norepinephrine, and provides antioxidant support.

· Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis):

Enhances acetylcholine (key for learning and memory), protects neurons from oxidative stress, and may have mild dopamine - enhancing effects.

A Personalised and Safe Approach

Navigating health as a neurodivergent person can be overwhelming, especially when advice is presented in a rigid, one-size-fits-all way that ignores brains that work a little differently.

Naturopaths can offer a more personalised, flexible approach.

In my clinic, I work collaboratively with my clients to create treatment strategies that suit their individual needs. This might include breaking things into baby steps, habit-stacking new routines, and adjusting plans based on energy levels, executive function, or sensory preferences.

PLEASE BE SAFE

It’s important to remember that natural doesn’t always mean safe. Please avoid self-prescribing herbs or supplements, especially if you’re taking medications or supporting a child.