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Before trying any new supplements for bipolar disorder, it’s important that you speak with a healthcare professional about potential medication interactions or other safety concerns.
Also, although the supplements in this list may improve some symptoms of bipolar disorder, they do not cure or treat the condition. These supplements should not take the place of prescribed medications.
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If you live with bipolar disorder, hopefully, you have a consistent treatment team, support system, and sound regimen, including:
Some supplements increase your daily nutrient intake. Others have been marketedas antidepressants. Certain supplements are even touted to improve the function of your brain and the nervous system.
Still, evidence of these benefits is of varying quality, so it’s essential to stay vigilant of claims that sound too good to be true.
Though we have suggested some brands of supplements as a way to help alleviate symptoms of bipolar disorder, other brands could be more suitable depending on your body and other medication you may be taking.
We recommend consulting a medical professional before using supplements to address bipolar disorder.
Our brand, content, and integrity teams have also vetted all products to ensure they’re appropriate for those with bipolar disorder.
A note on price
General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below. Note that prices may vary depending on where you shop.
Why we like this brand: Persona offers personalized daily vitamin packs to streamline your supplement routine and even provides free consultations with a wellness coach.
Promising research suggests that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids could be beneficial for managing bipolar disorder.
For instance, a 2016 review found that omega-3 fatty acids may prevent and improve symptoms of depression. It also suggested combining omega-3 with prescription medication might benefit people with bipolar disorder.
Similarly, a 2023 study showed that omega-3 fatty acids could decrease markers of inflammation and reduce depression compared to a placebo in people with bipolar disorder.
A 2016 study also found that omega-3 fatty acids could reduce the severity of mania in bipolar I disorder, with researchers noting that supplementation could be beneficial alongside other treatments.
Also, one 2020 review examined how some nutrient supplements may target the neurological pathways disturbed in bipolar disorder. Omega-3 fatty acids revealed some promising results, though it was highlighted that more research is needed on any possible benefits.
Note: Since Persona’s vitamins and supplements are assessed by a quiz to determine your personal needs, product pricing varies depending on the quantity and combination of your nutrient packs.
Pros
Affordable and widely available: Omega-3 and fish oil are affordable and available over the counter.
Supports many parts of your body: In addition to providing possible mental health benefits, omega-3s boast additional perks such as decreased inflammation and the potential for improved eye, heart, and brain health.
Cons
May cause side effects: If taken in higher doses, some people may experience diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Some people can be allergic: Because some omega supplements are derived from fish, some people may be allergic. In such cases, omega supplements made from algae or nuts may be a better option.
May interact with prescription drugs: Always consult a medical professional when combining supplements and medication.
Why we like this brand:MegaFood specializes in producing high quality, food-based supplements with ingredients sourced from its farms.
According to a 2016 review, B vitamins are essential for the function of nerve cells, and a deficiency could be linked to an increased risk of depression.
B complex supplements also provide several specific B vitamins that may be beneficial for managing bipolar disorder, including thiamine, folate, and vitamin B12.
Also known as thiamine, vitamin B1 helps prevent complications in the:
nervous system
intestines
brain
heart
muscles
stomach
It’s also involved in the flow of electrolytes into and out of muscle and nerve cells.
Thiamine deficiency is associated with beriberi and involves disorders of the heart, nerves, and digestive system.
One 2021 study of more than 7,000 adults found that vitamin B1 can help ease the anxiety that can accompany bipolar disorder. Still, more research is needed to better understand how B1 may help manage the condition.
B9, aka folate
Vitamin B9, also known as folate or folic acid, is a B vitamin needed for the production of DNA, among other bodily functions.
Folate is the form of vitamin B9 found naturally in foods, such as:
beef liver
vegetables
fruits
nuts
legumes
Meanwhile, folic acid is synthetic in many supplements and fortified foods.
A 2020 review of 14 studies concluded that folate supplementation could be safe and effective for improving symptoms of depression and bipolar manic episodes when used with other treatments.
Another 2022 review had similar findings, reporting that folate could improve clinical outcomes for several mental health conditions, including bipolar affective disorder. However, additional research is needed on the long-term effects of supplementation.
Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is a vitamin your body doesn’t produce on its own. It’s found in:
animal products
certain fortified foods
oral supplements
Vitamin B12 has many roles in your body, such as supporting the functioning of your nerve cells. It’s also needed for red blood cell and DNA molecule formation.
Though there is no proven correlation between vitamin B12 deficiency and bipolar disorder, the vitamin is known for its energy-boosting benefits. So, it may be a beneficial addition to the supplement regimen.
According to a 2019 study, Vitamin B12 can also play a role in synthesizing and metabolizing serotonin, the chemical responsible for regulating mood. So, being deficient in vitamin B12 may lead to decreased serotonin production and a depressed mood.
Improves mood and symptoms of depression: Vitamin B12 may improve low or depressive moods as it’s needed to produce serotonin. Folate might also be beneficial for improving symptoms of depression.
B1 is also used to treat inflammation.
B vitamins are water-soluble, so not as easy to overconsume.
Widely available: B complex vitamins are widely available and can be easily purchased over the counter.
Why we like this brand:Horbäach offers a wide range of budget-friendly supplements and follows strict quality standards.
Ashwagandha is an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional alternative Indian medicine. “Ashwagandha” is Sanskrit for “smell of the horse,” which refers to the herb’s scent and its touted ability to increase strength.
Ashwagandha may help reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions.
In one smaller study from 2013, people with bipolar disorder took ashwagandha for 8 weeks. Afterward, it was found that they performed significantly better in a test called “the digit span backward test,” which measures working memory.
A review from 2019 found that ashwagandha had the potential to curb cognitive dysfunction in those with bipolar disorder.
Still, more research on the possible benefits of this herb is needed before it can be recommended as a suitable supplement for managing bipolar disorder.
Pros
Many possible health benefits to ashwagandha: Some benefits include reduced blood sugar levels, reduced inflammation, and improved sleep.
Relatively inexpensive: Ashwagandha is generally inexpensive, with some options costing less than $10.
Can be taken in many ways: It can be taken in supplement or powdered form, both with food or on an empty stomach.
Cons
It takes a while to work: Any possible effects of ashwagandha are not immediate. It may take several months before you notice any effects.
Dosage recommendations vary: Doses can range from 250–1,250 milligrams per day and often depend on why you’re taking it. Consider talking with a healthcare professional to learn more about ashwagandha dosage.
Why we like this brand: Traditional Medicinals provides an assortment of organic and wild-collected herbal supplements and uses eco-friendly packaging. It’s also extensively vetted to ensure composition, identity, and purity “from field to cup” as advertised.
Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb from the same plant family as mint. Grown around the world, lemon balm is traditionally used to improve mood and cognitive function. It is also known as Melissa officinalis.
In traditional medicine, it’s been used as an astringent to cleanse pores and manage nervous headaches. In people with bipolar disorder, lemon balm has been used to:
A small 2018 trial found that people with consistent chest pain due to heart disease who were receiving Melissa officinalis in capsule form had a significant reduction than a placebo group in scores of:
Also, a 2022 study found that lemon balm could relieve mild symptoms of mental stress and act as a sleep aid.
Though the effectiveness of lemon balm is not well-studied, it may also have the potential to treat symptoms that can occur between episodes of bipolar disorder related to:
anxiety
insomnia
memory
Pros
Traditional Medicinals teas are certified organic: Not all lemon balm is certified organic.
Cons
Like the other supplements on this list, lemon balm may be suitable only as a complementary treatment: It cannot replace medical treatment.
Why we like this brand: Garden of Life specializes in sustainably produced, vegan, whole food-based supplements, many of which are also certified organic.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant produced naturally by the body.
Though it’s most often used to support heart health, some research suggests that CoQ10 could aid in managing bipolar disorder.
For instance, one 2019 study showed that CoQ10 supplementation could decrease markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in people with bipolar disorder during the depressive phase, with researchers noting that it could be a safe and effective strategy for treatment.
Another 2018 study found that supplementing with CoQ10 for 8 weeks improved symptoms of depression in people with bipolar disorder, which could be due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Also, other research suggests that CoQ10 could help decrease fatigue, a common symptom of bipolar disorder.
Pros
Offers wide range of potential benefits: CoQ10 has been studied for its ability to support heart health, alleviate migraines, and boost exercise performance.
Might improve symptoms of bipolar: CoQ10 could improve symptoms of depression and fatigue, which may be especially beneficial for people with bipolar disorder.
Formulated to maximize absorption: Because CoQ10 is fat-soluble, taking it with a source of fat, such as raw chia seed oil, can increase its absorption.
Cons
May cause insomnia: It’s typically recommended to take CoQ10 in the morning or afternoon, as it could lead to difficulty sleeping for some people.
It takes time to notice benefits: It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months before you start to notice the benefits of CoQ10 supplementation.
Why we like this brand: Doctor’s Best supplements are all third-party tested, so you can feel secure that they’re free of heavy metals and other contaminants.
A naturally occurring amino acid, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) can be converted to serotonin in the body.
Because serotonin is involved in regulating mood, memory, sleep, and more, 5-HTP supplements are a popular choice to help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Though studies on the effects of 5-HTP on bipolar disorder specifically are limited, some research has found that it could offer some benefits for symptoms that often accompany the condition.
One small 2017 study found that combining 5-HTP with creatine could decrease symptoms of depression by 60% in women resistant to treatment with antidepressants.
A 2021 study also showed that 5-HTP could reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep in older adults with poor sleep quality when taken for up to 8 weeks. (Researchers concluded this was due to the supplement accumulation in the body.)
Plus, 5-HTP might also be beneficial for other mental health conditions that can occur alongside bipolar disorder, such as anxiety.
However, keep in mind that 5-HTP is not recommended for those taking antidepressants. It could increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a severe condition that can be life threatening.
Pros
Could increase serotonin levels: 5-HTP is converted to serotonin in the body, which is an essential neurotransmitter in regulating mood and sleep.
Associated with multiple benefits: 5-HTP is widely used to relieve migraine, promote feelings of fullness, and treat symptoms of other conditions, such as fibromyalgia.
Cons
Limited research on bipolar disorder: Although 5-HTP has been shown to improve some symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, there is no evidence of its effectiveness for bipolar disorder specifically.
Could cause serotonin syndrome: Taking high doses or pairing 5-HTP with antidepressants could increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be dangerous.
May lead to side effects: Common side effects include digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Why we like this brand: Thorne is a well-known supplement brand with a reputation for producing high quality products free of artificial additives, dyes, and fillers.
This supplement contains several amino acids that could be beneficial for managing bipolar disorder, including L-tyrosine and L-tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin.
Some older research suggests that L-tryptophan could help reduce the severity of symptoms in people with bipolar disorder, including mania.
Though there is limited recent research on the potential benefits of L-tryptophan for bipolar disorder, a 2021 review found that L-tryptophan could improve mood and decrease anxiety in people without bipolar disorder.
Meanwhile, L-tyrosine produces other chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, that can enhance mood.
A 2016 animal study concluded that tyrosine could help treat depression in rats but noted that more research is needed.
Also, one 2015 study showed that tyrosine could improve memory, which is often affected in people with bipolar disorder.
Still, more high quality research in humans is needed to evaluate the potential benefits of L-tryptophan and L-tyrosine specifically for bipolar disorder.
Pros
Available in powder form: This berry-flavored supplement is easy to mix into water or other beverages, which might be preferable for those who have trouble taking capsules or pills.
It may boost energy levels: Branched-chain amino acids are involved in energy production, which might be beneficial for those with bipolar disorder experiencing fatigue.
Offers other health benefits: Essential amino acids might also help promote muscle repair and recovery, improve blood sugar control, and support heart health.
Cons
Limited research in humans: Most studies are conducted on animals or evaluating the effects of these amino acids in people without bipolar disorder.
Relatively expensive: Compared with other supplements on our list, this product comes with a higher price tag.
Not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those with maple syrup urine disease.
How to choose
If you’re interested in taking supplements for bipolar disorder, it’s essential to first speak with your healthcare professional. They can help ensure that the supplements are safe, suitable, and won’t affect other medication you may be taking.
Look for supplements that are certified by third-party organizations like National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International and United States Pharmacopeia (USP). These organizations test supplements for contaminants, potency, and more to ensure a safe, quality product.
Frequently asked questions
What helps with bipolar disorder naturally?
In addition to taking supplements, you can also try some natural techniques, such as:
other forms of therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavioral therapy
Still, discuss these techniques with your health professional before trying them.
Is bipolar disorder caused by a vitamin deficiency?
Research from 1998 suggests that specific protein deficiencies might be linked to the onset of bipolar disorder symptoms.
Still, more research is needed to better identify or understand potential causes or contributing factors to the condition.
Regardless, eating a balanced diet of whole foods is a good way to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.
How can I help my bipolar disorder without medication?
Starting and stopping meds prescribed by a psychiatrist is not recommended. Additional, non-medicated ways to support bipolar disorder management include:
If you’re interested in learning more about how to manage bipolar disorder, talk with a medical professional.
What are the most suitable supplements for bipolar disorder?
Several supplements might be beneficial for managing symptoms of bipolar disorder, including:
omega-3 fatty acids
B vitamins
lemon balm
However, it’s essential to note that these supplements should not be used as a replacement for other medications or treatment methods. You should also check in with a doctor before beginning supplementation.
What is a natural supplement for bipolar disorder?
Ashwagandha is a natural supplement that has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory in people with bipolar disorder.
Lemon balm is another option, which may act as a herbal sleep aid and reduce:
depression
anxiety
stress
What supplements should be avoided if you have bipolar disorder?
Specific supplements — including St. John’s wort and ginkgo biloba — could interact with other medications commonly used to treat bipolar disorder and may need to be avoided. S-Adenosyl-L-methionine (SAME-e) is another supplement that can worsen mania and is not recommended for those with bipolar disorder.
Is there a vitamin for bipolar disorder?
Several vitamins might be helpful for those with bipolar disorder, including a vitamin B complex. This supplement provides B vitamins like folate and vitamin B12, both of which may be beneficial for reducing certain symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Q:
Should supplements ever be used as a stand-alone treatment for bipolar disorder? Why or why not?
A Healthline Reader
A:
Supplements should never be used as a stand-alone treatment for bipolar. The reason for this is because of the conflicting evidence associated with such treatments. One study may suggest that a particular supplement improves the symptoms of bipolar, whereas another study will contradict it. Also, very little is known about supplement-supplement or supplement-prescribed medication interactions. Discussions about supplements should be had with your doctor to achieve maximal effect and safety in your medication regimen.
Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PMHNP-BCAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
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Takeaway
Some supplements may help manage some of the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
Still, always discuss any treatments with a medical professional before trying them.
It’s also essential to discuss feelings of depression, anxiety, lack of energy, or a loss of interest in everyday activities with a health professional. A health professional can recommend the best treatment path.
Last medically reviewed on September 13, 2023
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
Chengappa KNR, et al. (2013). Randomized placebo-controlled adjunctive study of an extract of withania somnifera for cognitive dysfunction in bipolar disorder. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24330893/
Eslahi H, et al. (2023). The effects of omega 3 fatty acids on the serum concentrations of pro inflammatory cytokines and depression status in patients with bipolar disorder: A randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37213459/
Haybar H, et al. (2018). The effects of Melissa officinalis supplementation on depression, anxiety, stress, and sleep disorder in patients with chronic stable angina. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29908682/
Kikuchi AM, et al. (2021). A systematic review of the effect of L-tryptophan supplementation on mood and emotional functioning. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32272859/
Kious BM, et al. (2017). An open-label pilot study of combined augmentation with creatine monohydrate and 5-hydroxytryptophan for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor- or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor-resistant depression in adult women. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28787372/
Mahdavifar B, et al. (2021). Dietary intake of B vitamins and their association with depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms: A cross-sectional, population-based survey. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33848753/
Mehrpooya M, et al. (2018). Evaluating the effect of coenzyme Q10 augmentation on treatment of bipolar depression: A double-blind controlled clinical trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30106880/
Tsai I-C, et al. (2022). Effectiveness of coenzyme Q10 supplementation for reducing fatigue: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36091835/
