ADHD Natural Treatment

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders.¹Danielson ML, Claussen AH, Bitsko RH, et al. ADHD prevalence among US children and adolescents in 2022: diagnosis, severity, co-occurring disorders, and treatment. J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2024;53(3). https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2024.2335625 Affecting roughly one in nine children, with boys more likely to be diagnosed than girls,²Salari N, Ghasemi H, Abdoli N, et al. The global prevalence of ADHD in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ital J Pediatr. 2023;49. https://ijponline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13052-023-01456-1 the condition frequently persists into adulthood. ADHD diagnoses among adults are almost equal among men and women.³Babinski DE. Sex differences in ADHD: review and priorities for future research. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2024 Apr;26(4):151-156. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-024-01492-6

The first clinical definition of ADHD was formally released in 2000. However, its roots date back centuries, to the late 1700s.³Lange KW, Reichi S, Lange KM, et al. The history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2010;2(4):241-255. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12402-010-0045-8 Despite differing opinions about causes and treatment, growing research on neurochemical, anatomical, and physiological factors related to ADHD has helped behavioral health professionals come to a consensus on symptoms and diagnosis.⁴Magnus W, Anikumar AC, Shaban K. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. StatPearls. 2023;Aug 8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838^,5Gehricke JG, Kruggel F, Thampipop T, et al. The brain anatomy of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in young adults—a magnetic resonance imaging study. PLoS One. 2017 Apr 13;12(4):e0175433. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0175433

ADHD symptoms and diagnosis

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) characterizes ADHD by lack of attention, disorganization, and hyperactivity–impulsivity, identifying 18 related symptoms. Eight symptoms are typically prominent³Lange KW, Reichi S, Lange KM, et al. The history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2010;2(4):241-255. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12402-010-0045-8^,4Magnus W, Anikumar AC, Shaban K. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. StatPearls. 2023;Aug 8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838:

1. Difficulty maintaining attention
2. Forgetfulness
3. Overlooking details
4. Avoidance of tasks requiring sustained attention
5. Daydreaming or “spacing out” during conversations
6. Losing things
7. Becoming easily distracted
8. Appearing not to listen

There are three ADHD subtypes: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive, or a combination of the two.³Lange KW, Reichi S, Lange KM, et al. The history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2010;2(4):241-255. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12402-010-0045-8

Although ADHD is classified as a brain development disorder, diagnosis is based on a child’s history, as opposed to imaging tests, and the presence of symptoms (having at least six of nine documented by the DSM).³Lange KW, Reichi S, Lange KM, et al. The history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2010;2(4):241-255. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12402-010-0045-8 Adults must have experienced at least five symptoms in two or more settings (e.g., home, work) to be diagnosed.

ADHD affects every child differently, and hyperactivity can be difficult to confirm before age four. The condition may become more easily recognizable in elementary school.⁵Koutsoklenis A, Honkasilta J. ADHD in the DSM-5-TR: what has changed and what has not. Front Psychiatry. 2023;13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1064141 Common movements and behaviors include wobbling, finger play, talkativeness, and increased motor activity at inappropriate times.

Potential causes, risk factors

Of the numerous factors and conditions that may precede an ADHD diagnosis, family history and prenatal health (e.g., maternal substance use, premature birth, preeclampsia) are known to increase risk.⁴Magnus W, Anikumar AC, Shaban K. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. StatPearls. 2023;Aug 8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838^,5Koutsoklenis A, Honkasilta J. ADHD in the DSM-5-TR: what has changed and what has not. Front Psychiatry. 2023;13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1064141

“Research indicates underlying issues with ADHD similar to other mental health conditions, which is termed psychoneuroimmunology,” says Dawn Bantel, ND, creator and medical director of Integrative Recovery Medicine in Tucson, Arizona. “Mental health isn’t isolated, and there is a complex interaction with the immune system tied to inflammation and gut health.⁶Vázquez-González D, Carreón-Trujillo S, Alvarez-Arellano L, et al. A potential role for neuroinflammation in ADHD. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2023;1411:327-356. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_15^,7Jakobi B, Vlaming P, Mulder D, et al. The gut-microbiome in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder—a meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2024 Nov;88:21-29. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.euroneuro.2024.07.004 If the person’s neurological system is [affected] by chronic stress, nutritional deficiencies, environmental exposures, or food sensitivities, those all need to be addressed to ensure a successful outcome.”

Children and adults with ADHD often have other conditions, including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, autism, or Tourette syndrome, or challenges with behavior and learning.¹Danielson ML, Claussen AH, Bitsko RH, et al. ADHD prevalence among US children and adolescents in 2022: diagnosis, severity, co-occurring disorders, and treatment. J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2024;53(3). https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2024.2335625^,8Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data and statistics on ADHD. 2024;Nov 19. https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html^,9Becker SP. ADHD and sleep: recent advances and future directions. Curr Opin Psychol. 2020 Aug;34:50-56. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.09.006 One study associated ADHD with patterns of addiction, low self-esteem, and self-harm or suicide.¹⁰French B, Nalbant G, Wright H, et al. The impacts associated with having ADHD: an umbrella review. Front Psychiatry. 2024;15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1343314 “Treating co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety and insomnia, can help improve quality of life for people with ADHD,” notes Dr. Bantel.

Non-medicinal ADHD therapies

Given the complex nature of ADHD, exploring a well-rounded treatment plan is an important first step toward improved functioning.

“ADHD is a multifactorial condition that requires a multifaceted approach,” says Cristina Azzola, ND. “Medication may be part of the mix, but it’s rarely the only solution. The therapeutic order of naturopathic medicine guides us in establishing foundations for optimal health, choosing therapies that stimulate self-healing while supporting and restoring weakened systems.”

Counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, helps many people develop positive coping strategies for managing ADHD in daily life, while also improving time management, organization, and attention. Parent training programs are another valuable treatment focus, teaching caregivers effective ways to support their child’s progress and address behaviors constructively at home.

Neurofeedback, which measures brain activity and shares that data with the participant, may enhance focus and self-control over time. However, evidence on the technique’s efficacy for ADHD is mixed.

The role of nutrition in attention disorders

Emerging research highlights a connection between gastrointestinal health, nutrient intake, and cognitive performance in people with ADHD.¹¹Cickovski T, Mathee K, Aguirre G, et al. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the gut microbiome: an ecological perspective. PLoS One. 2023 Aug 18;18(8):e0273890. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0273890 Deficiencies in iron/ferritin, zinc, and magnesium may contribute to overall risk and severity.¹²Skalny AV, Mazaletskaya AL, Ajsuvakova OP, et al. Serum zinc, copper, zinc-to-copper ratio, and other essential elements and minerals in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2020 Mar;58:126445. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtemb.2019.126445

“It’s possible to accomplish a lot by ensuring nutrition is optimized,” says Dr. Bantel. “High-quality food also assists with proper neurotransmitter production and gene expression. Gut health testing can be beneficial [for] identifying imbalances in digestive processes and the microbiome.”

The reverse is also true: a diet high in ultraprocessed foods like candy, packaged snacks, soda, and fast food increases hyperactivity and eventually weakens attention.¹³Ferreira R, Marin A, Vitolo M, Campagnolo P. Early ultra-processed foods consumption and hyperactivity/inattention in adolescence. Rev Saude Publica. 2024;58. https://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2024058005636

Supplements that target anxiety and focus

“It’s definitely possible to treat ADHD without medication,” Dr. Bantel says, “but it’s not as simple as replacing the medication with nutritional supplements.” Herbs and targeted nutrients support brain function, mood, and energy, and may help address underlying factors contributing to ADHD.

“Herbs can play a dual role,” Dr. Azzola adds. “For example, eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) has been used for decades to support neurological function as well as [to help people] better adapt to stress.”¹⁴Kos G, Czarnek K, Sadok I, et al. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Acanthopanax senticosus): an important adaptogenic plant. Molecules. 2025(30(12). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30122512

Essential fatty acids from fish oil supplements (specifically DHA and EPA) are also important. Research shows that children with ADHD have lower levels of omega–3 fats. Supplementation improves symptoms and cognitive function.¹⁵Chang J. Personalized medicine in child and adolescent psychiatry: focus on omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and ADHD. Brain, Behav Immun Health. 2021;16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100310

“L–theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that helps with focus and concentration,” says Dr. Bantel. An analysis of 11 studies found L–theanine supplementation not only addressed ADHD symptoms but also eased anxiety.¹⁶Moshfghinia R, Sanaei E, Mostafavi S, et al. The effects of L-theanine supplementation on the outcomes of patients with mental disorders: a systematic review. BMC Psychiatry. 2024;24. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-024-06285-y

Other herbs for brain health, mood, and memory include Bacopa monnieri, Melissa officinalis, Ginkgo biloba, saffron, chamomile, and valerian.¹⁷Dutta T, Anand U, Mitra S, et al. Phytotherapy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.827411^,18Seyedi-Sahebari S, Farhang S, Araj-Khodaei M, et al. The effects of Crocus sativus (Saffron) on ADHD: a systematic review. J Atten Disord. 2024 Jan;28(1):14-24. https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547231203176

ADHD medications

Dr. Azzola encourages a non-medicinal approach to ADHD management before turning to prescriptions. “If, over time, natural therapies prove inadequate in helping the person function well, then synthetic symptom relief would be considered,” she notes. “Prescription medications can be helpful in certain situations, especially when neurological injury has occurred.”

Stimulants are the first-line conventional treatment for ADHD. Side effects include sleep problems, decreased appetite, delayed growth, headaches, stomachaches, tics, moodiness, and irritability.¹⁹Nanda A, Janga L, Sambe HG, et al. Adverse effects of stimulant interventions for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a comprehensive systematic review. Cureus. 2023;15(9). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.45995

Other prescription options may be effective when stimulants are ineffective, not preferred, or cause unwanted side effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv) are two that work to improve focus, impulse control, and attention.

Antidepressants and antipsychotics are also used to manage impulsivity, hyperactivity, and mood-related challenges that sometimes accompany ADHD.

“Research indicates that about half of adults prescribed ADHD medication stop taking it [due to] side effects or because the medication was not effective,” says Dr. Bantel. “These do not address the underlying cause, so even if a patient chooses to take [them], the treatment approach should comprehensively address any underlying health issues that may be contributing to the condition.”

A whole health approach to ADHD treatment

Scientific evidence shows that an adaptable treatment plan can significantly benefit people with ADHD. Alongside natural ways to ease symptoms, the most effective strategies prioritize healthy eating, regular movement, restorative sleep, and positive social interaction. Exercise is especially powerful, as it boosts brain function and focus while reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.²⁰Mehren A, Reichert M, Coghill D, et al. Physical exercise in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder—evidence and implications for the treatment of borderline personality disorder. BPD. 2020;7:1. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40479-019-0115-2

“The brain needs both physiological and emotional support to function well,” says Dr. Azzola. “Behavioral therapy, talk therapy, herbs, diet, and lifestyle modifications all work together to support a calm and focused brain.”

Footnotes

• 1
  Danielson ML, Claussen AH, Bitsko RH, et al. ADHD prevalence among US children and adolescents in 2022: diagnosis, severity, co-occurring disorders, and treatment. J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2024;53(3). https://doi.org/10.1080/15374416.2024.2335625
• 2
  Salari N, Ghasemi H, Abdoli N, et al. The global prevalence of ADHD in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ital J Pediatr. 2023;49. https://ijponline.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13052-023-01456-1
• 3
  Lange KW, Reichi S, Lange KM, et al. The history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2010;2(4):241-255. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12402-010-0045-8
• 4
  Magnus W, Anikumar AC, Shaban K. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. StatPearls. 2023;Aug 8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838
• 5
  Koutsoklenis A, Honkasilta J. ADHD in the DSM-5-TR: what has changed and what has not. Front Psychiatry. 2023;13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1064141
• 6
  Vázquez-González D, Carreón-Trujillo S, Alvarez-Arellano L, et al. A potential role for neuroinflammation in ADHD. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2023;1411:327-356. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_15
• 7
  Jakobi B, Vlaming P, Mulder D, et al. The gut-microbiome in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder—a meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2024 Nov;88:21-29. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.euroneuro.2024.07.004
• 8
  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data and statistics on ADHD. 2024;Nov 19. https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html
• 9
  Becker SP. ADHD and sleep: recent advances and future directions. Curr Opin Psychol. 2020 Aug;34:50-56. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.09.006
• 10
  French B, Nalbant G, Wright H, et al. The impacts associated with having ADHD: an umbrella review. Front Psychiatry. 2024;15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1343314
• 11
  Cickovski T, Mathee K, Aguirre G, et al. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the gut microbiome: an ecological perspective. PLoS One. 2023 Aug 18;18(8):e0273890. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0273890
• 12
  Skalny AV, Mazaletskaya AL, Ajsuvakova OP, et al. Serum zinc, copper, zinc-to-copper ratio, and other essential elements and minerals in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2020 Mar;58:126445. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtemb.2019.126445
• 13
  Ferreira R, Marin A, Vitolo M, Campagnolo P. Early ultra-processed foods consumption and hyperactivity/inattention in adolescence. Rev Saude Publica. 2024;58. https://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2024058005636
• 14
  Kos G, Czarnek K, Sadok I, et al. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Acanthopanax senticosus): an important adaptogenic plant. Molecules. 2025(30(12). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30122512
• 15
  Chang J. Personalized medicine in child and adolescent psychiatry: focus on omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and ADHD. Brain, Behav Immun Health. 2021;16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100310
• 16
  Moshfghinia R, Sanaei E, Mostafavi S, et al. The effects of L-theanine supplementation on the outcomes of patients with mental disorders: a systematic review. BMC Psychiatry. 2024;24. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-024-06285-y
• 17
  Dutta T, Anand U, Mitra S, et al. Phytotherapy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.827411
• 18
  Seyedi-Sahebari S, Farhang S, Araj-Khodaei M, et al. The effects of Crocus sativus (Saffron) on ADHD: a systematic review. J Atten Disord. 2024 Jan;28(1):14-24. https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547231203176
• 19
  Nanda A, Janga L, Sambe HG, et al. Adverse effects of stimulant interventions for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a comprehensive systematic review. Cureus. 2023;15(9). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.45995
• 20
  Mehren A, Reichert M, Coghill D, et al. Physical exercise in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder—evidence and implications for the treatment of borderline personality disorder. BPD. 2020;7:1. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40479-019-0115-2