Mushrooms For ADHD - Help Manage Your Symptoms

What is ADHD?

We can't delve into the topic of mushrooms for ADHD, without first delving into the condition itself. 

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neuro-developmental issue that affects both children and adults. It manifests as a consistent pattern of poor attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that disrupts daily functioning or development. Many people think ADHD only affects children, but it can continue into adulthood.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has diagnosed approximately 6.1 million children and an unknown number of adults as of 2016. It's estimated that the condition affects around 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide.

Traditionally, a health care provider diagnoses ADHD through a detailed history check. Health care professionals may uses a range of tests for diagnosis, from behavioural assessments to physical exams, with lack of focus, distractibility, and difficult controlling behaviour as the most common signs. 

If you're an adult, you might be wondering if the poor focus, low attention span, and brain fog symptoms you're experiencing could be related to ADHD. It's possible, and you're not alone. Late diagnosis is common for many adults.

If you've been diagnosed, then it's worth looking into our piece on nootropics for ADHD, where we stack some great options to help soothe symptoms.

In this article, we will explore the possibility of using mushrooms for ADHD or AuDHD as a treatment option. Specifically, we'll look at different types of medicinal mushrooms and their potential benefits. So, if you've ever wondered how to focus when studying or manage ADHD symptoms, read on.

 

What Causes ADHD?

The exact cause of ADHD remains unclear, although multiple factors add to the condition. A mix of genetic, environmental, and neurological elements often come into play. Studies suggest that genes are a significant factor, making it more likely to appear in multiple family members.

Prenatal factors like exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, or drug abuse during pregnancy can also impact. Some research suggests that premature birth or low birth weight may play a role. The condition isn't solely rooted in poor parenting or lack of discipline, as was once believed.

Neurologically, ADHD is associated with an imbalance in neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in the brain. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for focus and attention, is often lower in individuals with ADHD. Hence, most medical treatments aim to balance these chemicals.

Besides genetics and brain chemistry, factors like diet, exercise, and exposure to toxins can impact ADHD symptoms. A full treatment plan often includes lifestyle changes, such as improved diet, taking supplements for ADHD and regular exercise.

What Does ADHD Feel Like?

Living with ADHD can be hard and often feels like a roller coaster of emotions and experiences. Symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, but common feelings include a sense of constant overwhelm, frustration, and restlessness. Your mind might race with a torrent of thoughts, making it hard to focus on a single task. 

Symptoms can show as chronic forgetfulness, poor organisational skills, and problems in managing time, especially those between the ages of 25-44 and 45-60 who are yet to be diagnosed. This could affect your work, relationships, and overall well-being. Brain fog symptoms and poor short term memory are also common complaints.

The condition isn't limited to mental symptoms. Emotional struggles like low mood, irritability, and mood swings can occur. It's not uncommon for individuals with ADHD to experience conditions like anxiety or depression, which can further complicate the picture.

So, what symptoms of ADHD should you be aware of? The key markers are lack of focus, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and emotional flux. If this resonates with you, seeking a professional diagnosis is the first step towards helping your symptoms.

As we explore the possibility of using the best mushrooms for ADHD as a treatment option, it's crucial to understand its multi-faceted nature. Potential Mushrooms for ADHD like Lion's Mane and Reishi have been used in traditional mushroom medicine and could offer a new avenue for symptom management. 

Treatments for ADHD

Managing ADHD often requires a multi-faceted approach that includes medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes, alternative treatments like medicinal mushrooms. The most commonly prescribed medications are stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin. These work by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain, thus aiding focus and attention. This is why they're often considered the answer to the question, how to focus when studying.

However, medication isn't a one size fits all solution. Side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite, and potential for abuse are significant concerns. For this reason, many people look into alternative treatment options.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is often recommended alongside medication to help better manage symptoms. ADHD supports groups can also provide emotional help.

Another popular avenue for treatment involves natural remedies. This is where mushrooms for ADHD come into play. Mushroom medicine has a long history of use for various issues, including cognitive and emotional. Given their adaptogenic properties, some mushrooms might be beneficial in treating ADHD symptoms.

Dietary changes can also help. Reducing sugar and processed foods while more intake of omega-3 fatty acids has shown promise in relieving ADHD symptoms. Exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, is another lifestyle change that has proven effective in managing symptoms like poor focus and low mood.

Mushrooms For ADHD

Lion's Mane

Lion's Mane is one of the medicinal mushrooms UK enthusiasts give attention for its potential brain enhancing properties. Rich in compounds like hericenone and erinacine, it stimulates the production of nerve growth factor, crucial for brain health. This may help in reducing brain fog symptoms, a common complaint among those with ADHD.

Potential Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushrooms for ADHD

Several studies suggest that Lion’s Mane may improve focus and attention, which are critical issues for anyone experiencing ADHD symptoms. One study in particular showed an increase in concentration levels among adults after taking Lion’s Mane for a few weeks.

The anti-inflammatory properties of Lion's Mane, mean it could be beneficial for brain health. This mushroom is a possible candidate for symptom management due inflammation being a factor to ADHD. All in all, it's a perfect candidate to be part of a mushroom complex ADHD solution.

The best Lion’s Mane supplements can be added easily into your daily routine. It comes in various forms like capsules, powders, and even mushroom coffee.

Best Ways To Take Lion’s Mane for ADHD

When it comes to taking Lion's Mane for ADHD, there are several options available to suit different lifestyles. Capsules can be easily incorporated into your daily routine and are perhaps the simplest method. Various brands offer the best Lion’s Mane supplements in capsule form, providing a standardised dose that takes the guesswork out of dosage.

Another popular way to consume Lion’s Mane is in powder form. It can be added to smoothies, teas, or even your morning coffee, making it especially versatile. Mushroom coffee blends that include Lion's Mane offer a unique and tasty way to get your daily dose. This makes it easier for individuals who may be worried about the taste of medicinal mushrooms for ADHD.

If you're more of a DIY enthusiast, you can also find Lion’s Mane tinctures or even grow your own Lion’s Mane at home. Tinctures can be added to water or taken directly under the tongue for faster absorption.

Is Lion’s Mane Safe?

When considering any supplement, safety is a key concern. When taken in moderate does, Lion's Mane is considered safe for most people.  Lion's Mane has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so it's best to consult a health care provider if you fall into these categories.

One critical note: if you're already on medication for ADHD or any other condition, it's worth contacting a health care provider before starting Lion's Mane. While it's generally considered safe, interactions with other medications have not been fully studied. Also, it's important to source them from reputable companies to ensure you're getting a high-quality product.

Reishi

Reishi, often referred to as the "Mushroom of Immortality," has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. While it maily helps the immune system, it's adaptogenic properties also make it a potential option for managing ADHD. Reishi contains compounds like triterpenes and polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective.

Potential Benefits of Reishi for ADHD

The mushroom has been studied for its potential in improving mood and lowering stress. Given that ADHD often co-exists with mood disorders like anxiety and depression, Reishi could offer a dual benefit. Its calming properties may help to soothe some of the emotional symptoms that often come with ADHD, such as irritability or mood swings.

Moreover, Reishi may also help improve sleep quality. Poor sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms like lack of focus, low mood and brain fog symptoms. Therefore, better sleep could lead to better symptom management, particularly for adults in the age groups of 25-44 and 45-60 who are struggling with these challenges. If you have a problem with low mood, it's worth checking out our piece on the vitamins for energy and depression.

While Reishi doesn’t directly target ADHD symptoms like focus and attention, its general health benefits could support better symptom management. 

Best Ways To Take Reishi for ADHD

Much like Lion's Mane, Reishi comes in various forms, each with its own set of advantages. Capsules remain a popular choice, easily added into a daily supplement routine. Reputable brands offer standardised Reishi extracts, ensuring you receive a consistent and potent dose each time.

Powders offer more versatility and can be added to a wide range of liquids. For those who prefer their morning coffee with a twist, mushroom coffee blends that include Reishi are becoming more popular. This form of intake fits naturally into daily life, making it easier to stay consistent.

Tinctures are another option for those who prefer faster absorption. A few drops under the tongue or mixed into a drink can deliver a quick dose of Reishi's beneficial compounds.

Reishi can be brewed into a tea for a more traditional approach. However, this method requires a longer preparation time and yields a bitter taste, which might not appeal to everyone.

Is Reishi Safe?

Most adults can safely take Reishi in reasonable amounts. However, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Mild common side effects such as digestive upset or skin rashes often resolve once the person stops using the supplement.

There is always a risk of an allergic reaction. Therefore, start with a small dose to test your body's response. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to consult with a health care provider before starting with Reishi.

A critical consideration is potential interactions with other medications. Reishi has blood-thinning properties, so it's not recommended for those on anticoagulant medications. Moreover, because it affects the immune system, it could interact with immunosuppressive medications. Therefore, speak with a health care provider if you're taking any other medications, especially those for ADHD symptoms.

Chaga

Chaga is another mushroom that has piqued the interest of researchers and healthcare practitioners alike. Although not directly studied for ADHD, Chaga's health benefits are wide ranging and could indirectly assist in helping ADHD symptoms. It's rich in antioxidants, which help to combat oxidative stress, a condition linked to various mental issues, including ADHD.

Potential Benefits of Chaga for ADHD

One feature of Chaga is its potential to improve gut health. Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and neurological conditions, including ADHD. An imbalance in gut flora may affect brain function, leading to symptoms like brain fog and poor focus.

Additionally, Chaga has adaptogenic properties similar to other medicinal mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Reishi. This means it could help the body adapt to stress, a common concern for those suffering from ADHD. While Chaga hasn’t been directly studied for its effects on ADHD, its overall health benefits make it a good option for those looking to manage their symptoms holistically. But for those willing to try a natural approach, Chaga is an option worth considering.

Best Ways To Take Chaga for ADHD

When it comes to taking Chaga for ADHD management, you have several options, each with unique advantages. Chaga capsules are convenient and straightforward. 

You can mix chaga mushroom powder into hot drinks or your protein shake to easily get it into your daily life. You can also find mushroom coffee UK blends that include Chaga, providing a way to combine your morning caffeine boost with the potential benefits of this mushroom.

For a more traditional take, you can brew Chaga chunks into a tea. While this method requires more time and preparation, it allows for a highly customisable experience. You can adjust the flavour by adding herbs, spices, or sweeteners to tailor it to your taste.

Chaga tinctures are another option, providing a quick and effective way to consume Chaga. A few drops under the tongue or mixed into a beverage can offer a simple alternative for those on the go.

Is Chaga Safe?

Most people tolerate Chaga well, but you should watch for potential side effects and interactions with other medications. The most commonly reported side effects are gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions, which are relatively rare.

Chaga has blood-thinning properties and may interact with anticoagulant medications. If you're on any such medication, it's crucial to consult with a health care provider before starting to use Chaga. This is especially important for adults between 45-60, who may be more likely to be on such medications.

Psilocybin: Psychedelics for ADHD

The use of psilocybin, the active component in "magic mushrooms," for ADHD is a controversial yet well researched topic. Although not approved as a standard ADHD treatment, studies suggest psilocybin may have potential for addressing various mental health conditions, including ADHD.

Potential Benefits of Magic Mushrooms for ADHD

Psilocybin acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered states of consciousness. It's this that has led researchers to investigate its effects on mood disorders and attention related issues. The idea is that by "resetting" certain neural pathways, it may offer a new way to manage symptoms of ADHD such as poor focus and low mood.

However, it's crucial to note that the legality of psilocybin varies widely by jurisdiction, and it remains a controlled substance in many places. Also, the long-term effects and safety profile for ADHD treatment are not yet fully understood. Because it induces a psychedelic state, there's also the potential for misuse or adverse psychological reactions.

Ways To Take Magic Mushrooms for ADHD

If you're considering using psilocybin to manage ADHD symptoms, there are various methods of intake, each with its own set of pros and cons. Keep in mind that it remains a controlled substance in many jurisdictions, and consulting with a health care provider is crucial.

You can consume fresh or dried 'magic mushrooms' directly, although their earthy taste may not appeal to everyone. Brewing them into tea can make them more paltable.

Another option is psilocybin capsules, which offer a convenient and measured dose. These are especially useful for "microdosing".This involves taking a small amount to achieve subtle, non-psychedelic effects that some claim can help with focus and mood. 

Psilocybin-infused edibles are also becoming more widely available in areas where they are legal. These often come in the form of chocolates or gummies and offer an easy, albeit less controllable, method of intake.

Intranasal sprays and vapourised forms of psilocybin are emerging but are less common and not as well studied as other methods. These could offer a quicker onset of effects but come with their own set of risks and unknowns.

More clinical research methods include intravenous administration, though researchers generally limit these to study settings. Given the current legal status and limited research on psilocybin for ADHD, it's key to exercise caution and consult a medical professional for advice tailored to your specific needs.

Are Magic Mushrooms Safe?

The safety of using psilocybin, particularly for ADHD treatment, is not fully understood due to limited research. However, studies on psilocybin for other mental health conditions have generally found it to be low in toxicity and with a limited potential for abuse.

Common side effects of psilocybin use include nausea, hallucinations, and heightened emotional sensitivity. While these effects are usually temporary, they can be intense and unsettling for some users. Psychological preparedness is key when considering psilocybin, especially for those with a history of mental health issues.

Legal considerations are another significant aspect of psilocybin safety. In many jurisdictions, the possession or use of psilocybin remains illegal, and unauthorised use can lead to severe legal consequences. Make sure to check your local laws before exploring this option.

Ilegally sourced psilocybin products lack quality control and might contain contaminants, which is a significant concern. Therefore, if you're considering this route, ensure you are sourcing from a reputable, third-party verified source, if possible.

Despite its potential, the safety of psilocybin as a treatment for ADHD remains an area needing further study. Considering its legal status and the risks of its pyschedelic effects, one should approach psilocybin with caution.

Mushroom Supplements for ADHD

Mushroom supplements have gained traction as a natural way to manage ADHD symptoms. Ranging from Lion's Mane to Reishi, these supplements promise a host of benefits, including better focus and mood stabilisation. Although not as obviously beneficial for ADHD, Cordyceps mushroom powder can be useful for it's natural energy production. While not a replacement for traditional ADHD treatments, they offer a complementary approach for those struggling with poor focus, low attention span, and other symptoms of ADHD. Below, we've compiled some mushrooms for ADHD. 

1. The Shruum by Jrny

The Shruum by Jrny stands out as a specialised mushroom blend designed with the neurodiverse in mind, particularly those with ADHD. The formula includes Lion's Mane, Chaga and other adaptogens like Ginkgo Biloba and Rhodiola Rosea, tested in clinical trials with ADHD patients.These ingredients support brain functions such as focus and memory, and emotional well-being like mood swings and frustration tolerance. The Shruum, in powder form, mixes easily with water or milk for a refreshing hot chocolate or with coffee for a Mocha, offering versatility

2. Lion’s Mane Capsules by Twenty Two

These capsules offer a simple way to incorporate Lion's Mane into your routine, potentially aiding with brain fog symptoms. With standardised extracts, you get a consistent dosage of beneficial compounds in each capsule. They provide a convenient way to try a Lion’s Mane supplements for ADHD management.

3. Lion's Mane Capsules from Mushies

Another option for those looking to explore the benefits of Lion's Mane, these capsules come from a reputable brand known for high-quality mushroom supplements. Mushies offers third-party testing, ensuring the purity and potency of their product.

4. Red Reishi 10:1 Extract Powder from Hybrid Herbs

This highly concentrated Red Reishi extract powder delivers a potent dose of the medicinal mushroom. Noted particularly for its calming properties, Reishi may help those coping with the emotional aspects of ADHD.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of ADHD treatments can be a complex journey, but exploring alternative options like medicinal mushrooms may offer some relief. Whether it's the focus-enhancing properties of Lion's Mane, the calming effects of Reishi, or the potential breakthroughs offered by psilocybin, mushrooms for ADHD are a growing area of interest.

While they may not replace traditional treatments, mushroom supplements like The Shruum by Jrny or Lion’s Mane Capsules by Twenty Two can serve as valuable additions to your ADHD management toolkit. Before embarking on any new treatment, always consult a healthcare provider, especially if you're considering more controversial options like psilocybin.

As we've seen, various mushroom supplements and extracts offer potential benefits for managing ADHD symptoms, from poor focus and low mood to brain fog symptoms. By staying informed and open to alternative treatments, you can take an empowered approach to managing ADHD and reaching your full potential.