Natural Ways to Support Neurodivergent Functioning

Recently, there has been an increasing interest in how natural supplements and holistic health practices can support neurodivergent individuals, especially those with autism, and ADHD.

Autism is a spectrum, and every autistic individual has unique strengths, sensitivities, and needs. While therapy and medical support play crucial roles, many families and individuals are also turning to holistic health and natural supplements to support well-being, ease sensory processing challenges, improve focus, and promote emotional balance.

This approach doesn’t aim to “cure” Autism or ADHD, but rather to support overall health and help neurodivergent people thrive on their own terms.

While conventional treatments focus on behavioral or pharmacological interventions, many families and practitioners are exploring plant-based, probiotic, and lifestyle-centered strategies to enhance cognitive, emotional, and sensory functioning in people with Autism and ADHD. The latest scientific reviews highlight several evidence-informed natural approaches rooted in both traditional medicine systems and modern probiotic science.

While traditional interventions like behavioral therapies and medications remain essential, many families and practitioners are exploring integrative approaches that align more closely with neurodiversity-affirming care.

Here's what current research says about herbal remedies and probiotic supplements for autistic functioning.

Natural Ways to Support Neurodivergent Functioning

Natural supplements may benefit neurodivergent functioning via:

• Neuroinflammation modulation (herbal anti-inflammatories)

• Gut-brain axis regulation (probiotics, gut health & nutrition)

• Oxidative stress reduction (antioxidant-rich herbs)

• Neurotransmitter balancing (such as GABA and serotonin effects from herbal compounds)

Key Natural Interventions Identified

1. Herbal Remedies from Traditional Medicine

Herbal systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda offer time-tested remedies that may help with emotional regulation, cognitive support, and sensory processing challenges common in autism. A 2025 review in Plantae Scientia highlights several plant-based substances that have shown promise in easing autism-related symptoms:

• Ashwagandha: A popular adaptogen that helps manage stress and anxiety, improves sleep quality, boosts energy supports brain function, hormonal balance, immune support and anti-inflammatory.

• Lion's Mane: Regulates brain function naturally, supports nerve growth, memory, focus, mental clarity and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Ginkgo biloba: Traditionally used to support brain function and circulation, mood support and anti-oxidant effects.

• Gastrodia elata: Used in TCM to calm the nervous system and support brain health.

• Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi): Known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, it's been studied for improving attention and memory. It reduces anxiety and stress, supports attention and focus, protects brain cells and enhances learning ability.

These herbs, when integrated into individualized care plans, may offer complementary benefits to existing therapies, particularly in behavioral regulation, cognitive enhancement, and emotional modulation for autistic individuals (Devarkar, 2025).

2. The Gut-Brain Connection: Nutrition & Gut Health

The gut-brain axis is a hot topic in both neuroscience and autism research. Probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support gut health—are increasingly being used to improve mental wellness.

Diet and Nutrition:

There’s a strong link between gut health and brain function. For many autistic individuals, making dietary adjustments can reduce inflammation, improve mood, and support clearer thinking.

• GFCF Diets: Gluten-free (Wheat Gluten) and casein-free diets (Cow's Milk Protein): Some people report reduced hyperactivity and improved digestion.

• Whole, unprocessed foods: Minimize artificial colors, preservatives, and additives that may trigger sensitivities.

• Probiotics and fermented foods: These help maintain healthy gut flora, which can affect mood and focus.

While every supplement should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially when it involves children or other medications, some natural options have shown promise:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil or algae-based): May improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety.

• Magnesium: Often used to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, and improve sleep.

• Vitamin B6 and magnesium combo: Reported by some parents to support communication and behavior.

• Melatonin: A gentle and natural sleep aid that can help establish better rest routines.

• L-Theanine: An amino acid known to promote calm without sedation.

• CBD oil (non-psychoactive, THC-free): Some anecdotal evidence suggests benefits for anxiety, mood regulation, and sensory sensitivity.

Gut Health & Probiotics:

A 2025 study reviewed probiotic products with marketed mental health claims:

• Fourteen probiotic products with mental health claims were identified containing five different strains or strain combinations, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum, which showed some efficacy in supporting stress resilience, mood stability, and gut-brain regulation.

• Out of 18 trials reviewed, 10 showed statistically significant mental health benefits, though results varied by strain and study design.

• Table 2 summarizes the evidence for each probiotic formulation from these 18 studies.

This aligns with rising interest in the microbiome's role in neurodevelopment and emotion regulation, particularly in autism (Slykerman et al., 2025).

Digestive issues are very common for autistic people and many struggle with Candidiasis (that impacts the gut) and yeast overgrowth, it may cause intense food cravings, insatiable appetite, especially for foods high in sugar and carbohydrates. A specific probiotic that is very effective for this is Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) It's a probiotic yeast that is actually a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, often used for the treatment of GI tract disorders such as diarrhea symptoms.

Are there clinical trials testing natural therapies for neurodivergent children?

Yes, there are emerging clinical studies and intervention programs exploring natural and holistic therapies for neurodivergent children, especially those with Autism and ADHD. While most studies have traditionally focused on pharmacological and behavioral treatments, there's a shift toward integrative, neurodiversity-affirming approaches.

Here are a few notable studies and programs relevant to natural or non-medical interventions:

No.	Study	Key Insight
1	Mental Health Probiotic Trial (Slykerman et al., 2025)	Although not autism-specific, this review supports the growing use of probiotics to influence the gut-brain axis and improve mood and stress regulation—particularly relevant in neurodivergent care.
2	Traditional Herbal Approaches (Devarkar, 2025)	A review of herbs like Bacopa monnieri, Ashwagandha, and Ginkgo biloba for their cognitive and emotional benefits in children with autism—drawn from traditional medical systems like Ayurveda and TCM.

Safest Herbal Remedies for Neurodivergent Children: What Does the Science Say?

When it comes to supporting children with Autism and ADHD, many parents are exploring complementary approaches alongside conventional therapies. Among these, herbal remedies stand out for their natural appeal and long-standing use in traditional medicine.

But which ones are safe and scientifically supported for kids? Let's explore the evidence.

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

• What it is: A powerful adaptogen known for regulating stress and supporting overall resilience. It is an adaptogenic herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s often referred to as "Indian ginseng" or "winter cherry."

• How it helps: Can reduce cortisol levels, support mood stabilization, and help with sleep regulation.

  • Stress & Anxiety Relief

    • Ashwagandha supports the body’s stress response by reducing cortisol levels.

    • Shown to improve symptoms of anxiety in both adults and teens.

  • Improves Sleep Quality

    • Naturally promotes relaxation and helps regulate sleep cycles.

  • Boosts Energy & Endurance

    • Enhances stamina and reduces fatigue, making it popular among athletes and those recovering from burnout.

  • Supports Brain Function

    • May enhance memory, focus, and cognitive function.

  • Hormonal Balance

    • Supports thyroid function and may help regulate hormones, especially in stress-related imbalances.

    • In men, may support healthy testosterone levels and fertility.

  • Immune Support & Anti-Inflammatory

    • Contains compounds that help modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation.

• Safety profile: Widely used in children. However, caution is advised in cases of autoimmune disorders or thyroid imbalances. Generally safe for most people when used as directed (typically up to 600 mg/day of standardized extract).

2. Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

• What it is: Lion’s Mane is a type of edible and medicinal mushroom known for its distinctive white, shaggy appearance that resembles a lion’s mane. Traditionally used in Chinese and Japanese medicine, it's celebrated for its nootropic and neuroprotective properties.

• How it helps:

  • Cognitive Support

    • Stimulates production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which supports the growth and repair of neurons.

    • May improve memory, focus, and mental clarity.

    • Often used to support neurodivergent individuals (e.g., ADHD, autism) due to its potential to regulate brain function naturally.

  • Neuroprotection

    • May slow cognitive decline in early Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

    • Helps in nerve regeneration after injury.

  • Mood and Emotional Regulation

    • Shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in some studies, possibly due to its anti-inflammatory effects on the brain.

  • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant

    • Protects brain and body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Safety profile: Generally safe and well-tolerated in moderate doses.

  • Rare mild side effects: digestive upset, skin rash, or breathing difficulty in allergic individuals (especially those allergic to mushrooms).

  • Start with small doses and increase slowly.

3. Ginkgo biloba

• What it is: A traditional Chinese medicine herb that enhances brain health and circulation. Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species, often called a “living fossil.” Native to China, its fan-shaped leaves are used to make herbal extracts. It has a long history in traditional medicine and is one of the most widely used natural supplements in the world today.

• How it helps: Potentially improves focus, reaction time, and mental clarity.

  • Cognitive Function: May improve memory, focus, and mental clarity. Often used for age-related cognitive decline and early-stage dementia.

  • Circulation: Enhances blood flow, especially to the brain and extremities, which can benefit those with poor circulation.

  • Mood Support: May help reduce symptoms of anxiety and mild depression by improving stress response and overall brain function.

  • Antioxidant Effects: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which help combat oxidative stress.

• Safety profile: Use with caution. Blood-thinning risk: Ginkgo can interfere with blood clotting and shouldn't be used with anticoagulants (like warfarin) or before surgery.

4. Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)

• What it is: A revered herb in Ayurveda, Bacopa is traditionally used to enhance memory and attention traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Native to India and other tropical regions, it has been used for centuries as a brain tonic to enhance memory, focus, and mental clarity. It contains active compounds called bacosides, which are believed to be responsible for its cognitive effects.

• How it helps: Some studies suggest it may improve attention span, anxiety, and cognitive processing in children.

  • Improves memory and recall – Especially effective with long-term use (8–12 weeks).

  • Reduces anxiety and stress – Acts as an adaptogen to help the body cope with stress.

  • Supports attention and focus – Helpful for ADHD symptoms in both children and adults.

  • Protects brain cells – Has antioxidant properties that support brain health and neuroplasticity.

  • Enhances learning ability – Particularly when taken consistently over time.

• Safety profile: Generally considered safe in pediatric use when taken at age-appropriate doses. Minor side effects can include stomach discomfort.

Final Thoughts: A Personalized, Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach

No single supplement or remedy is a magic solution. However, when thoughtfully chosen and guided by healthcare professionals, natural approaches like herbal supplements and probiotics can enhance quality of life and promote well-being in autistic individuals and support overall neurodivergent functioning. It's crucial to tailor interventions to the unique sensory, cognitive, and emotional profile of each person.

Herbal supplements like Ashwagandha, Lion's Mane, Ginkgo, Brahmi, as well as targeted probiotic strains, show promise in supporting autistic functioning by enhancing cognition, regulating mood, and improving stress response.

While herbal remedies hold promise, individual responses vary, and safety depends on dose and underlying health conditions. These supplements should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially in children with autism, who may have unique sensitivities or metabolic differences.

As we continue to learn more about the neurobiology of autism and the power of integrative health, holistic strategies may become valuable allies in creating supportive, person-centered care environments.

References

Devarkar, V. D. (2025). Traditional Herbal Approaches to the Management of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): a review. Plantae Scientia, 8(1), 9–14. https://doi.org/10.32439/ps.v8i1.9-14

Leonard, J. (2024, December 10). What are the benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323400

Slykerman, R. F., Davies, N., & Donohoe, R. (2025). Evaluating the scientific evidence to support mental health and well-being claims made on probiotic products. Nutrition and Health. https://doi.org/10.1177/02601060241305682

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.