156: Best Herbs for ADHD with Dana Kay

Managing ADHD naturally can feel overwhelming, but what if there were powerful plant-based remedies that could help? In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay explores the best herbs for ADHD, breaking down the science behind how they support focus, reduce stress, and regulate emotions. She covers research-backed benefits of herbs like Rhodiola Rosea, OPCs, ginkgo, and ginseng—offering practical strategies for incorporating them into your child's routine. Dana Kay, a leading ADHD health practitioner, has helped thousands of families find natural, effective solutions for ADHD symptoms. In this episode, she provides a clear, no-fluff guide to using herbs safely and effectively. Whether you're new to natural remedies or looking to refine your child's supplement plan, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss! Make sure and grab your Herbs for ADHD Cheat Sheet at the link provided!  Links Mentioned in the Show:  Functional Lab Testing Video -  https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/lab-testing-for-adhd1  My Favorite Place to Buy Supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplements  My Favorite Herbs that are Mentioned in this Episode: Rhodiola Rosea - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/rhodiola-rosea.html  OPC - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/curcumasorb-mind-60-capsules.html  Ginkgo - https://amzn.to/4ij9EK1  Ginseng - https://amzn.to/4ihGDye  Herbs for ADHD Cheat Sheet - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplement-for-adhd-herbs  Links to Previous Episodes in this Supplements for ADHD Series: Magnesium -  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-93/  Saffron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-136/  GABA - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-137/  L-Theanine - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-142/  Bio Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-144/  Omegas - ​​ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-146/  Iron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-148/  Vitamin D - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-150/  Zinc - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-152/  Zembrin -  https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-154/  Key Takeaways: [3:04] Overview of Rhodiola Rosea and Its Benefits [3:49] Scientific Studies on Rhodiola for ADHD [4:23] How to Choose and Use Rhodiola Safely [8:45] Introduction to OPCs and Their Brain-Boosting Effects [9:14] The Role of OPCs in Strengthening the Blood-Brain Barrier [10:15] How OPCs Improve Cognitive Function and Focus [13:10] Ginkgo & Ginseng: Natural Stimulant Alternatives [14:15] Key Considerations Before Using Herbs for ADHD [14:52] Final Thoughts and Actionable Next Steps Memorable Moments: "Herbs are powerful plant-based remedies that could sharpen focus, reduce stress, and support emotional regulation—and most people completely overlook them." "Rhodiola is like a built-in stress shield for the brain. It helps calm that chaos, sharpen focus, and smooth out emotional roller coasters." "In just one week, people taking Rhodiola felt less stressed, more focused, and mentally sharper." "Rhodiola was compared to the antidepressant sertraline, also known as Zoloft. While sertraline had stronger effects, Rhodiola had fewer side effects and was better tolerated." "Research shows Rhodiola may enhance memory and learning by helping neurons in the brain communicate better." "OPCs are antioxidants found in blueberries, grapes, and dark chocolate, and they help protect the brain while strengthening the blood-brain barrier." "One study found that drinking blueberry juice, which is rich in OPC flavanols, for 12 weeks improved working memory, blood flow to the brain, and cognitive performance in adults." "Ginkgo and ginseng act like stimulants without the side effects, and studies show they may help improve attention and dopamine levels in kids with ADHD." "Herbs are powerful, even though they're natural. They can interact with medications, so always consult a professional." "There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Functional lab testing can help determine which nutrients and herbs your child actually needs." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/ https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/ Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY