Natural ADHD Support: Herbs and Supplements for Focus, Calm, and Clarity
By Alexandra Stuart, Naturopath
Discover natural ADHD support with researched herbs and nutrients. Albury naturopath shares evidence-based options for focus, calm, and brain health
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Understanding ADHD and Natural Support
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) impacts both children and adults, affecting focus, attention, memory, and emotional regulation. Conventional medication can be helpful, but many families seek natural ADHD support to complement their treatment plan.
As a practicing Albury naturopath, I often see clients who want to improve focus, calm the nervous system, and enhance learning through herbal remedies and targeted nutrients. Research now supports the role of certain herbs and supplements in improving cognitive performance and emotional resilience in ADHD.
The Naturopathic Approach to ADHD
ADHD is associated with:
Imbalances in dopamine and norepinephrine (neurotransmitters for attention and motivation)
Oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain
Challenges with stress regulation, leading to emotional ups and downs
A naturopathic ADHD plan focuses on three key pillars:
Calming and nourishing the nervous system
Enhancing memory and neurotransmitter function
Supporting brain energy and resilience naturally
When we work with a protocol we work with the individual case often what I see arise in most ADHD patients is: gut brain axis issues, heavy metal toxicity, inflammation and nutritional gaps.
Top Herbal Remedies for ADHD
1. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile is a gentle herb that calms the nervous system and eases emotional dysregulation.
Active compounds: Apigenin, which interacts with GABA receptors to reduce anxiety and hyperarousal.
Research: Clinical studies in Phytomedicine show chamomile reduces anxiety symptoms, which are often present in ADHD.
How to use: Tea, glycerite for children, or capsules for adults.
2. Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri / Brahmi)
Bacopa is one of the most well-studied nootropic herbs for focus and memory.
Actions: Enhances acetylcholine activity, protects neurons from oxidative damage, and improves learning speed.
Research: A 12-week study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed bacopa improved memory and attention in children with ADHD.
How to use: Standardised capsules or powders; effects are best after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
3. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage supports short-term memory and attention while offering antioxidant benefits.
Research: A study in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior found sage extract improved attention span and memory in adults.
How to use: Herbal tea, tincture, or encapsulated extract.
4. Saffron (Crocus sativus)
Saffron is known for mood support and its ability to enhance focus.
Key compounds: Crocin and safranal, which modulate dopamine and serotonin pathways.
Research: A trial in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology found saffron as effective as methylphenidate for mild to moderate ADHD in children.
How to use: Standardised saffron extract; culinary doses are usually too low to be therapeutic.
5. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Lion’s mane mushroom promotes nerve growth factor (NGF), improving neuroplasticity and cognitive function.
Research: Early studies show improvements in memory and mild cognitive impairment, making it supportive for ADHD and learning challenges.
How to use: Powders, capsules, or teas.
6. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum / Tulsi)
An adaptogen that reduces stress and supports emotional balance.
Research: Tulsi has demonstrated anti-stress and cognitive-enhancing properties in clinical studies.
How to use: Tea or tincture for daily stress regulation.
Nutrients and Supplements for Focus and Clarity
1. L-Theanine
Found in: Green tea
Benefits: Promotes calm alertness by increasing alpha brain waves, reducing impulsivity, and improving attention.
Research: Clinical trials show enhanced focus and reduced mind-wandering, especially when paired with mild caffeine.
2. NAD+ and Precursors (NMN / NR)
Role: Supports brain energy production and reduces oxidative stress.
Benefits: May improve mental clarity, motivation, and overall cognitive performance.
Best for: Adults seeking long-term brain health and energy support.
3. Zinc
Role: Zinc is crucial for dopamine regulation, neurotransmitter activity, and cognitive processing.
Research: Studies have found that children with ADHD often have lower zinc levels, and supplementation can improve symptoms like impulsivity and hyperactivity. A 2004 randomized trial published in Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry found zinc sulfate improved ADHD symptoms when used alongside traditional treatment.
How it supports ADHD:
Enhances dopamine function, which is often dysregulated in ADHD
Helps reduce oxidative stress in the brain
Supports immune and gut health, both of which impact mental wellbeing
Sources: Oysters, red meat, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or as a supplement (under practitioner guidance).
A Holistic ADHD Plan with a Naturopath in Albury
These herbs and nutrients work best as part of a comprehensive naturopathic ADHD plan, which may include:
Diet support for blood sugar and brain nutrition
Herbal and nutrient formulas tailored to individual needs
Lifestyle strategies for sleep, stress, and movement
Disclaimer: This information is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional, especially for children or if taking medication.
If you’re seeking natural ADHD support in Albury, I offer personalised consultations in-clinic and online. Together, we can explore a nature-based, evidence-informed plan to help you or your child thrive.
