Living full-time on the road can be deeply freeing — but also emotionally intense. As someone managing both ADHD and borderline personality disorder (BPD), I know firsthand how challenging it can be to stay grounded, focused, and emotionally balanced in a lifestyle full of unpredictability. Over time, I’ve found herbal medicine to be a powerful companion in my mental wellness toolkit.

This post shares the specific herbal remedies I personally use while living van life with ADHD and BPD. These herbs support my focus, ease anxiety, and help me navigate the emotional highs and lows that come with both the road and my neurodivergent brain.

Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional — this list reflects my own experience. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you’re taking medication or have underlying conditions.

🌿 1. Rhodiola Rosea – For Energy & Emotional Stability

When van life throws your nervous system into overdrive, Rhodiola is like a reset button. This adaptogen helps your body adapt to stress while improving focus and energy.

🛒 Buy Rhodiola Rosea on Amazon UK

🌿 2. Passionflower – For Calming Anxiety & Racing Thoughts

When my mind won’t slow down, especially in the evenings, Passionflower helps calm the chaos. It gently supports relaxation without making me feel groggy.

🛒 Buy Passionflower Capsules on Amazon UK

🌿 3. Holy Basil (Tulsi) – For Emotional Regulation

Holy Basil has helped me feel emotionally steadier. It’s my go-to for regulating mood swings, especially during hormonal fluctuations or stress on the road.

🛒 Buy Holy Basil (Tulsi) on Amazon UK

🌿 4. St. John’s Wort – For Low Mood & Irritability

On days when depression or irritability creeps in, St. John’s Wort offers gentle mood support. Just be cautious if you’re taking any medications—this one interacts with many.

🛒 Buy St. John’s Wort on Amazon UK

🌿 5. Lion’s Mane Mushroom – For Brain Fog & Focus

This mushroom is a powerhouse for neurodivergent brains. Lion’s Mane has helped me feel more alert, focused, and mentally clear without the crash of stimulants.

🛒 Buy Lion’s Mane Capsules on Amazon UK

🌿 6. Ashwagandha – For Stress & Mood Support

I use high-strength KSM‑66 capsules to help my mind unwind on long journeys. A calming companion for the body on the road.

🛒 Buy Ashwagandha on Amazon UK

🌿 7. Lemon Balm – For Relaxation

A cup of this tea during reflection time helps me slow down and center myself after a stimulating day outside. I also enjoy this cold with ice cubes as a summer drink.

🛒 Buy Lemon Balm Herbal Tea on Amazon UK

🌿 8. Lavender – Calming & Stress Relief

A few drops of Lavender Essential Oil in a diffuser or on your pillow can transform your van into a soothing sanctuary when the outside world feels chaotic.

🛒 Buy Lavender Essential Oil on Amazon UK

🌿 9. Chamomile – For Gentle Relaxation & Sleep

Chamomile tea is a van-life staple. Warm, simple, and grounding—it helps me wind down naturally at night.

🛒 Buy Chamomile Tea on Amazon UK

✅ How to Use These Herbal Allies

  • Always start with small doses
  • Note how your body responds—no dosages are set in stone
  • Stop use and see a professional if you notice any side effects

🚐 How I Store Herbs in My Van

I keep everything in a small wooden crate with labelled jars and a few airtight tins. Teas and tinctures are tucked into one drawer, and capsules go in a simple pill organizer. This keeps things tidy and accessible, which is essential when managing ADHD.

🔁 How I Use These Herbs on the Road

  • Routine: I keep my supplements in labelled containers in the van to keep things simple.
  • Listening to my body: I don’t take everything every day. I rotate based on how I’m feeling.
  • Pairing with practices: These herbs work best when paired with mindfulness, rest, and journaling — all essential parts of my mental wellness toolkit.

🧭 Free Printable Guide

Download “Herbal Remedies for Mental Wellness – Van Life Guide” to keep this info at your fingertips:

👉 Download Your Free Wellness Guide (PDF)

💬 Final Thoughts

Herbs aren’t a cure-all, but they’re gentle, supportive tools that help keep our minds anchored on the road.
🧘‍♀️ A Gentle Reminder – Every person responds differently to herbs. Start with small doses and observe how your mind and body react. Consult a holistic therapist or GP, especially if you’re taking medications or managing co-occurring conditions.

Let me know in the comments which one you’re curious to try!

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