The Herb Ashwagandha for ADHD: Does It Really Work?

If you’ve been looking for natural ways to manage ADHD symptoms, you may have heard about ashwagandha. This herb, commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, is known for its ability to help the body deal with stress, improve energy levels, and support overall mental health. But does it actually work for ADHD? Let’s take a closer look at what the research says and what real people have experienced.

As a therapist who personally has ADHD and works with both teens and adults with ADHD, I’m always interested in exploring new ways to help manage the symptoms of this condition—whether through therapy, lifestyle changes, or supplements.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a plant that’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in India. It's considered an "adaptogen," which means it helps the body adapt to stress. You might see it marketed as a supplement for anxiety, fatigue, and even cognitive decline, but lately, it’s also been getting some attention for its potential to help with ADHD symptoms.

Could Ashwagandha Help with ADHD?

1. Reducing Stress

Stress and anxiety are major issues for people with ADHD. When life feels overwhelming, it can be hard to focus or stay on task. Ashwagandha is well-known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, which could be a huge help for anyone dealing with the emotional rollercoaster of ADHD. By lowering cortisol levels (the stress hormone), ashwagandha might help calm your mind and make it easier to focus on what matters.

2. Improving Focus

While there’s no magic pill for ADHD, some people report that ashwagandha helps them stay more focused. When stress is under control, it becomes easier to manage attention and avoid distractions. So, if you’ve been struggling with scattered thoughts or find it hard to concentrate, ashwagandha might just help you stay on track.

3. Supporting Cognitive Function

There’s also some research suggesting that ashwagandha can boost brain function. A study with healthy adults found that those who took ashwagandha had better memory, faster reaction times, and improved focus. While this research wasn’t specific to ADHD, it shows promise for improving the cognitive issues that often come with the condition.

4. Stabilizing Mood

Many people with ADHD also struggle with emotional dysregulation—feeling overwhelmed, irritated, or overly sensitive. Ashwagandha has mood-stabilizing properties that may help reduce these emotional swings, making it easier to deal with relationships, work, and daily life.

What Does the Research Say?

1. ADHD-Specific Studies

A clinical study with children aged 5-12 who had ADHD found that taking ashwagandha daily for two months helped improve symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and emotional regulation. The kids who took ashwagandha showed significant improvements compared to those who took a placebo. In fact, all the kids in the ashwagandha group reported improvements—compared to just a third of those on the placebo. This gives hope that ashwagandha could be an effective supplement for managing ADHD in children. (figshare.com)

2. Cognitive Benefits in Adults

A study with adults found that taking ashwagandha improved cognitive functions like memory, focus, and reaction time. These types of improvements are key for people with ADHD who often struggle with these areas. So, while we need more studies specifically on ADHD, the general cognitive benefits of ashwagandha are promising. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

3. Stress and Neuroprotection

Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties may be beneficial in reducing the stress levels that exacerbate ADHD. Research indicates that ashwagandha supplementation can lower cortisol levels, alleviate anxiety, and improve sleep quality. It may also offer neuroprotective benefits that could be beneficial for brain function over time. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Nursing Student’s Story:

One nursing student shared how ashwagandha helped them stay calm and focused during their intense program. They said it was especially helpful before exams, reducing anxiety and allowing them to concentrate better. They did mention that it made them feel a bit sleepy at first, but once their body got used to it, it helped them manage stress without feeling overwhelmed. (reddit.com)

Where to Buy Ashwagandha

If you’re ready to try ashwagandha, you can easily find it at various online retailers and in-store locations. Here are some great places to get started:

Online Retailers:

• Amazon: Offers a wide selection of ashwagandha supplements, including options like NaturaLife Labs Organic Ashwagandha, which is USDA certified organic.

• Walmart: Stocks popular brands such as Spring Valley Extra Strength Ashwagandha.

• CVS: Carries various ashwagandha options, including Nature Made and Nature's Bounty, both of which are known for their quality.

• Walgreens: Offers ashwagandha supplements with KSM-66 extract, a more bioavailable form of the herb.

  
  

In-Store Options:

• Target: Stocks ashwagandha products like Swanson and Nature Made, available both online and in-store.

• Whole Foods Market: Carries premium brands such as Gaia Herbs and Organic India, offering organic and sustainably sourced ashwagandha products.

  
  

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While ashwagandha is generally safe for most people, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals already on medication for ADHD or other health conditions. Some people might experience mild side effects, like drowsiness or digestive discomfort, but these are usually temporary. Just make sure it’s right for you and won’t interact with other treatments.

Final Thoughts:

Ashwagandha shows promise as a helpful supplement for managing ADHD symptoms, especially when it comes to reducing stress, improving focus, and stabilizing mood. It won’t replace traditional ADHD treatments like medication and therapy, but it could be a useful addition for some people looking for a natural way to support their mental health.

As always, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before adding anything new to your routine.

I personally have not yet tested ashwagandha for ADHD but it's definitely on my list to try next. As a therapist with ADHD myself, and with experience working with both teens and adults with ADHD, I’m curious to see how ashwagandha might work for managing symptoms, and I’ll be sure to update you once I’ve given it a try!

If you’re looking for a natural way to help manage your ADHD symptoms, ashwagandha might just be worth exploring!