Many people wonder if natural medicine or naturopathic treatments can cure ADHD. However, it’s a complex issue that requires clarification.
ADHD is not just a condition; it’s a neurotype, an inherent aspect of who we are. It’s not something to cure because it’s not an illness. Embracing a neuroaffirming perspective means acknowledging and respecting diverse neurotypes rather than aiming to conform to a perceived norm. Just like some people are left-handed or dyslexic, they often struggle in a world that is not designed to fit them. Attempting to “cure” ADHD is akin to trying to alter our intrinsic selves, which is not just implausible but also unnecessary.
ADHD isn’t just a condition; it’s a unique neurotype that affects our executive functions – the part of our brain responsible for planning, attention, and time management. Forgetfulness, disinterest, and boredom are also common but often misunderstood symptoms. It’s a bit like navigating through cognitive brain fog, similar to the challenges of people with long-term COVID-19 symptoms and other long-term health complaints. Some people say it’s a superpower, as you can be hyper-focused, and some say it’s not when they’re struggling with burnout or getting the simple, mundane tasks done during the day. An official diagnosis of which there are three types- combined, internal (previously known as ADD) and external requires a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist; without it, pharmaceutical options remain out of reach, making the privileged journey lengthy and expensive (approximately $1200).
In recent times, there has been a surge in ADHD diagnoses, especially in the later stages of life. This can be attributed to increased awareness, research, and a more open mental health and neurodivergence dialogue. Notably, a significant number of women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) are being diagnosed during perimenopause, when a change in hormones occurs, and were often overlooked in childhood. Their diagnosis was not flagged when they were young as they don’t present as the typical ADHD external type hyperactive boys in a classroom. Women/AFAB may present symptoms differently, internalising them and not causing apparent issues for others.
The lower detection rate in adults is compounded by its frequent coexistence with other psychiatric conditions like anxiety (25-40% of people with ADHD have an anxiety disorder), depression, delayed sleep phase, and substance abuse. Additionally, the lack of a typical hyperactive presentation in childhood means that these individuals may not be flagged for diagnosis early on. They often exhibit traits like being people pleasers, perfectionists, organised daydreamers, and adapting to external environments by becoming adept mimics. Adults with ADHD, particularly those with higher IQs, possess greater social adaptation skills, making it challenging to diagnose due to the ability to mask characteristic symptoms.
Yet, while we can’t change our neurotype, we can explore numerous factors that exacerbate ADHD symptoms, such as our overall internal health and external sensitivity to our lifestyle environment and here’s where natural medicines play a significant role.
1. Gut Health: The gut-brain connection is profound. Imbalances like parasites, bacterial or fungal overgrowth, and leaky gut can trigger inflammation and neurotransmitter imbalances, intensifying ADHD symptoms. Addressing gut health often positively impacts not just ADHD but also associated conditions like anxiety and depression.
2. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal shifts during puberty, postpartum, and perimenopause can significantly influence ADHD symptoms, particularly in women and AFAB individuals. Natural medicines offer a holistic approach to regulating hormonal imbalances.
3. Regulating Menstrual Hormones: For those experiencing fluctuations impacting ADHD symptoms, herbs like Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus) can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce premenstrual symptoms that exacerbate ADHD traits.
4. Support during Perimenopause: Perimenopause is a phase where hormonal shifts intensify. During this time, our estrogen levels fluctuate, meaning that on any day, we can have too much or too little. This often leads to increased ADHD symptoms. Specific herbs can help manage symptoms during this transitional phase.
ADHD women also experience a double compromise because a side effect of low estrogen is cognitive dysfunction and difficulties with memory, remembering words, planning and organising. Another layer of mental fog comes from a different direction, causing a double whammy. For ADHD women, the start of perimenopause can be severe and disrupt the usual coping strategies. Interestingly, many women don’t realise they have ADHD or other neurodivergent issues until changes in hormone levels bring the symptoms to light.
5. Burnout, Stress and Anxiety Support: Hormone-balancing adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) and a range of other herbs may assist in modulating stress responses and hormonal balance. These herbs not only aid in managing stress—a common trigger for aggravated ADHD symptoms—but also support hormonal equilibrium.
6. Nutrient Deficiencies: Shortfalls in essential vitamins such as folate, B vitamins, omega 3s, zinc, magnesium, and methylation issues can also magnify ADHD symptoms. Enhancing specific amino acids can serve as precursors for neurotransmitter production, aiding in mood stabilisation and focus. DNA testing is a great way to assess your methylation issues and provides information on how to treat them.
7. Dietary Adjustments: Tailoring diets to regulate blood sugar levels and nutrient-dense intake and mitigate food allergies or intolerances can optimise energy, focus, and mood. This is essential for managing ADHD symptoms, as medication can often cause dietary complications by inhibiting appetite.
ADHDers are also 3 times more likely to binge-eat high sugar, fat junk food as they seek external sources of dopamine.
8. Environmental Factors: Toxins, viruses, and exposure to elements like mould and heavy metals contribute to inflammation and impact mental health, demanding consideration for holistic ADHD management.
9. Lifestyle: It is important to note that making specific, simple individual lifestyle changes, such as low-impact exercising, breathing techniques, using pill organisers and incorporating gadget-tracking devices, can help manage ADHD symptoms and improve overall functioning. Identifying lifestyle friction points at work and home, negative health behaviours such as excessive dopamine-seeking behaviours such as drinking alcohol, energy drinks, shopping, caffeine, cutting, drugs, dangerous adrenaline activities and risky sexual health behaviours and getting professional support in these areas is also crucial.
10. Sleep Management and supplement support: ADHDers naturally want to go to bed later, and their medication can often cause issues with sleep. Poor sleep can lead to an increase in their stress levels and can lead to problems with struggling to undertake healthy behaviours. Addressing sleep issues and incorporating supplement support is crucial for ADHDers.
In conclusion, the question isn’t about curing ADHD but rather understanding and managing it effectively. While natural medicines and naturopathic approaches can’t alter one’s neurotype, they play a vital role in addressing underlying factors that exacerbate ADHD symptoms. From gut health to hormonal balance, dietary adjustments, and environmental considerations, a holistic approach can significantly impact overall well-being.
Seeking support from a neuroaffirming practitioner is crucial. Beware of anyone promising a “cure” for ADHD with natural medicine. Instead, address the drivers behind intensified symptoms and enhance your overall well-being.
Remember, being an ADHDer is part of who you are, and that’s more than okay. The aim isn’t to change that but to empower you to navigate the world confidently and with resilience, embracing your unique neurotype. Some great resources can also be found on the Neurodivergent Woman website and ADDitude.
So, let’s embark on a journey towards becoming calmer, more focused, and better equipped to face each day as individuals with ADHD using natural methods. It’s also important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, so working with a qualified practitioner who knows what they are doing is crucial.
If you have any questions about how I can help you on your health journey, please book an appointment with me! I’m always here to support you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified health practitioner to tailor any interventions to your needs and ensure their suitability with any existing medications or conditions.
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