Efficiency of Different Supplements in Alleviating Symptoms of ADHD with or Without the Use of Stimulants: A Systematic Review

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#attention-deficit-disorder-with-hyperactivity #humans #dietary-supplements #ginkgo-biloba #caffeine

Efficiency of Different Supplements in Alleviating Symptoms of ADHD with or Without the Use of Stimulants: A Systematic Review

Al et al., 2025 | Nutrients | Systematic Review

Citation

Al Shahab Shatha, Al Balushi Rawan, ... Jahrami Haitham. Efficiency of Different Supplements in Alleviating Symptoms of ADHD with or Without the Use of Stimulants: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2025-Apr-28;17(9). doi:10.3390/nu17091482

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This review aims to assess the efficacy and safety of different supplements, such as L-theanine, caffeine, Ginkgo biloba L., and Bacopa monnieri for improving ADHD symptoms, to determine the most effective supplement and provide insight for medical practice. METHODS: International databases (PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus) were searched for English-language RCTs, open-label studies, and cross-sectional studies. RESULTS: Studies on L-theanine, caffeine, Ginkgo biloba L., and Bacopa monnieri have shown various effects on ADHD symptoms. L-theanine improved sleep efficiency but not other sleep parameters. Caffeine showed no significant benefits, although its combination with L-theanine may enhance attention. Bacopa monnieri consistently improved inattention, hyperactivity, and memory, whereas Ginkgo biloba L. reduced ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention, but was less effective than methylphenidate. CONCLUSIONS: The evidence revealed the potential use of supplements as complementary ADHD treatments under clinical guidance. The limited effect of supplements cannot replace the well-documented efficacy of stimulants for ADHD treatment. Additional studies are needed to ascertain the most effective dosages and the safety of these supplements as adjunctive treatments for ADHD.

Key Findings

Studies on L-theanine, caffeine, Ginkgo biloba L., and Bacopa monnieri have shown various effects on ADHD symptoms. L-theanine improved sleep efficiency but not other sleep parameters. Caffeine showed no significant benefits, although its combination with L-theanine may enhance attention. Bacopa monnieri consistently improved inattention, hyperactivity, and memory, whereas Ginkgo biloba L. reduced ADHD symptoms, particularly inattention, but was less effective than methylphenidate.

Outcomes Measured

  • sleep efficiency

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition sleep

MeSH Terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
  • Humans
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Ginkgo biloba
  • Caffeine
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Plant Extracts
  • Bacopa
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Child
  • Glutamates

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: l-theanine

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09