There is growing interest in the role of functional mushrooms and adaptogens in supporting cognitive health, focus, and emotional regulation — areas that are often impacted in individuals with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). While clinical trials directly targeting ADHD with mushroom extracts are limited, early research, traditional use, and anecdotal evidence suggest promising benefits.
Evolved Nutrition kindly sent me some of their products to try, which have been super helpful for some of my clients with ADHD.
The Evolved Nutrition mushroom extracts have been developed in two concentrated alcohol-free mushroom extract blends — Clarity+ and Balance+ — formulated to work synergistically to support mental clarity, focus, and emotional balance.
Clarity+ — Cognitive Performance & Focus
Key Ingredients:
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Cordyceps sinesis
Bacopa monnieri (standardized extract)
Core Benefits:
· Enhanced Mental Clarity:
Lion’s Mane supports the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), promoting cognitive function, memory, and neuroplasticity.
· Increased Natural Energy:
Cordyceps boosts cellular ATP production, supporting physical and mental energy without stimulants or crashes.
· Improved Concentration & Learning:
Bacopa is a traditional Ayurvedic nootropic known to enhance information retention, focus, and processing speed.
How it may help with ADHD:
Lion’s Mane is known to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which supports brain plasticity, memory, and concentration. Studies suggest improvements in mild cognitive impairment and working memory tasks.
Cordyceps enhances cellular energy (ATP) and may support dopamine regulation — a key neurotransmitter involved in ADHD. It’s also used traditionally to combat mental fatigue and improve endurance.
Bacopa monnieri, an Ayurvedic nootropic, has been shown in clinical trials to improve attention, memory, and processing speed, particularly in children with ADHD.
Suggested Use:
Daily support for focus, productivity, and mental performance — particularly useful for those experiencing brain fog, distraction, or cognitive fatigue.
Balance+ — Calm, Mood & Sleep Support
Key Ingredients:
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, KSM-66®)
Core Benefits:
· Stress Support & Nervous System Regulation:
Reishi and Ashwagandha act as powerful adaptogens, helping the body respond more effectively to daily stressors.
· Enhanced Sleep Quality:
Reishi and Ashwagandha contribute to improved sleep onset and deeper, more restorative rest.
· Antioxidant & Immune Support:
Chaga is rich in beta-glucans and polyphenols, offering immune modulation and reducing oxidative stress throughout the body.
How it may help with ADHD:
Reishi is a calming adaptogen that supports the parasympathetic nervous system, aiding in emotional regulation and sleep quality — common challenges in ADHD.
Chaga is rich in antioxidants and has neuroprotective properties. While not directly linked to ADHD, it may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation — both of which can negatively impact cognition.
Ashwagandha (KSM-66®) is clinically proven to reduce cortisol, anxiety, and stress, while improving overall cognitive function and sleep. These benefits can be especially helpful for individuals with ADHD-related anxiety or overstimulation.
Suggested Use:
Evening or late-day support to promote calm, reduce stress, and support deep, restorative sleep.
Research Highlights
While direct studies on mushrooms and ADHD are sparse, supporting research includes:
Lion’s Mane (2020, 2009): Improved cognitive function in older adults and memory scores in clinical settings.
Bacopa (2013, 2016): Multiple studies in children and adults with ADHD showing improved attention, impulse control, and reduced symptoms.
Ashwagandha (2020): Reduced stress and improved executive functioning.
Cordyceps (animal studies): Enhanced dopamine production via tyrosine hydroxylase upregulation.
All ingredients in Clarity+ and Balance+ are dual-extracted, third-party tested, and sourced for maximum bioavailability.
Client Feedback
Users often report:
Enhanced focus and reduced brain fog
Calmer mood and less reactivity
Better quality of sleep and improved energy
Reduced overwhelm and emotional fatigue
Reduced mania and distraction
Product Features
· Dual-extracted for maximum potency (water + alcohol extraction, alcohol removed)
· No fillers, sweeteners, or synthetic ingredients
· Vegan, gluten-free, and made by the leading EU organic mushroom supplement manufacturer
· 100% bioavailable liquid format for faster absorption
Notes for Use in Content
These blends are not a replacement for prescribed ADHD treatment, but may serve as complementary support.
Always encourage users to consult their healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement protocol, especially if on medication.
More clinical trials are needed, but the current research and anecdotal data are encouraging.
