What is Lithium Orotate?
Lithium orotate is a mineral supplement that combines lithium to orotic acid[1]. Unlike prescription lithium carbonate, which has long been used as a treatment of bipolar disorder, depression and self-harming behaviour[2], lithium orotate is available in smaller, non-prescription doses[3]. To learn more about the differences between lithium carbonate and lithium orotate, you can explore our dedicated blog here.
Some people choose lithium orotate for its perceived benefits such as support for cognitive health, mood balance, or general wellness. However, it is essential to weigh both the potential benefits and the possible side effects before considering use. As the NHS highlights, taking any form of lithium requires careful monitoring due to its potential side effects, which makes it especially important to seek guidance's before taking lithium orotate[4].
Lithium Orotate Benefits and Uses
Some emerging research suggests that lithium orotate may play a role in supporting cognitive health and could potentially help reduce the risk of age-related decline, including the progression of Alzheimer's disease[5]. There are also anecdotal reports and early findings indicating that it may support mood, ease stress, and promote mental clarity. Although evidence is still limited, further studies are currently being done to better understand its effectiveness[6].
As a result, people commonly turn to lithium orotate for the following potential benefits:
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Cognitive support – assisting with focus, memory, and mental sharpness
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Mood balance – helping to manage feelings of low mood or stress
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Neuroprotective potential – ongoing research into its role in protecting brain health
How To Take Lithium Orotate
Lithium orotate is usually taken in low doses, most often providing around 5 mg of elemental lithium per day. This is far below the therapeutic doses prescribed in medical settings for conditions such as bipolar disorder.
That said, more is not always better. Even at low levels, lithium can influence cognitive function and bodily processes, meaning lithium orotate may still cause noticeable effects. Some people use it occasionally for short periods, while others take it more regularly. To experience potential benefits, it may be best to use it consistently for around six weeks before reviewing whether it’s right for you. However, research on the long-term safety of lithium orotate at supplemental doses remains limited, underlining the need for caution.
Because individual sensitivity varies, even low-dose supplements may not be suitable for everyone. Exceeding the recommended amount can increase the risk of side effects. For this reason, it’s wise to approach lithium orotate cautiously and seek professional advice before starting or adjusting your dose.
When it comes to timing, the NHS generally recommends taking forms of lithium in the evening. Lithium orotate can be taken with or without food, but it’s best to swallow tablets with a glass of water or juice.
Who May Benefit from Lithium Orotate?
Lithium orotate is often marketed as a gentle, low-dose form of lithium that may support mood balance, brain health, and stress resilience. While research on this supplement is limited compared to prescription lithium carbonate, some groups of people may find it worth exploring – ideally under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
1. People Experiencing Mood Imbalances
- Mild depression, anxiety, or mood swings – Some anecdotal reports suggest lithium orotate may help stabilise emotional highs and lows.
- Irritability and stress – Some people use lithium orotate to promote calmness.
2. Individuals Concerned with Cognitive Health
- Neuroprotection – Preliminary research on lithium in general suggests it may support brain resilience and possibly reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
- Focus and mental clarity – Lithium orotate may provide improvements in mental sharpness, although clinical evidence is still sparse.
3. Those with Sleep or Energy Regulation Challenges
- Sleep disruptions – By supporting circadian rhythm and neurotransmitter balance, lithium orotate may help with more restful sleep.
- Fatigue or low energy – Some find that mood stabilisation leads indirectly to more consistent energy levels.
4. People in Perimenopause or Menopause
- Hormone-related mood swings – During perimenopause, fluctuations in eostrogen and progesterone can cause irritability, anxiety, or depressive symptoms. While not widely studied, lithium orotate might offer gentle mood support during this transition.
- Brain fog and memory concerns – Cognitive changes during midlife may overlap with the neuroprotective potential of lithium orotate.
Important Note: There are no large-scale studies specifically confirming benefits of lithium orotate for perimenopause. Most of the potential uses are inferred from lithium’s known effects on mood and brain health. Anyone considering it during this stage should consult their healthcare provider, especially if taking other medications or managing other conditions.
Foods that Contain Lithium
Lithium occurs naturally in trace amounts in some food and water sources. Here are some examples of food where it can be found[7]:
- Cereals
- Vegetables: potato, cabbage
- Spices: nutmeg and cumin
This natural dietary lithium is thought to play a role in overall health, but intake varies significantly depending on location and diet.
Risks, Side Effects and Considerations
Even though lithium is available as a supplement, it is not free from risks. Those considering lithium orotate should be mindful of potential side effects.
According to the NHS[8], the common side effects from lithium include:
- Digestive upset (nausea, diarrhoea)
- Dry mouth or a metallic taste in the mouth
- Slight shaking of the hands
- Feeling tired or sleepy
People who experience persisting side effects should talk to a medical professional. Additionally, individuals with kidney conditions, pregnant women, and children should not take lithium orotate without medical advice. Combining lithium orotate with other supplements or prescription lithium can increase risks. Always check with a healthcare provider before use.
Lithium orotate is an intriguing supplement that continues to attract attention for its possible role in brain health and wellbeing. But as with all supplements, it should be approached with care. For further advice, Napiers offer various services that aim to support you with practical, personalised wellness strategies. Book a consultation with us to receive personalised guidance based on your individual health profile.
FAQs
Can kids take lithium orotate?
No. Lithium orotate is not recommended for children due to lack of safety data and potential risks.
What time of day should I take lithium orotate?
Many people prefer taking it in the evening with food, but this should always be confirmed with a health professional.
Does lithium orotate work immediately?
No. If benefits are noticed, they are typically gradual, not immediate.
Is lithium orotate better than prescription lithium?
They are not directly comparable. Prescription lithium is clinically proven for bipolar disorder, while lithium orotate is a supplement with less evidence and lower doses.
- Murbach, T.S., Glávits, R., Endres, J.R., Hirka, G., Vértesi, A., Béres, E. and Szakonyiné, I.P. (2021) "A Toxicological Evaluation of Lithium Orotate", Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 124, pp. 1-10. Available at: ScienceDirect.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2025) Lithium Carbonate. Available at: NICE.
- Health Research Authority. (2024) A Proof-of-Concept Study of an Accessible Lithium Supplement. Available at: HRA.
- NHS. (2023) About Lithium. Available at: NHS.
- Hamstra, S.I., Roy, B.D., Tiidus, P., MacNeil, A.J., Klentrou, P., MacPherson, R.E.K. and Fajardo, V.A. (2023) "Beyond its Psychiatric Use: The Benefits of Low-Dose Lithium Supplementation", Current Neuropharmacology, 21(4), pp.891–910. Available at: NCBI.
- King's College London (2025) Lithium Orotate: A Potential Accessible Supplement for People Dxperiencing Depression with Mixed Features. Available at: KCL.
- Szklarska, D. and Rzymski, P. (2019) "Is Lithium a Micronutrient? From Biological Activity and Epidemiological Observation to Food Fortification", Biol Trace Elem Res, 189, pp. 18–27. Available at: Springer Nature.
- NHS. Side Effects of Lithium. Available at: NHS.
