Lithium
Other names for Lithium
99.9% pure lithium
elemental lithium
from 125 mg of lithium orotate
ionic lithium
lithium
lithium amino acid chelate
lithium aspartate
lithium bicarbonate
{lithium} carbonate
lithium carbonate
lithium chloride
{lithium} citrate
lithium citrate
lithium gluconate
{lithium} orotate
lithium orotate
lithium oxide
Synopsis of Lithium
History
Lithium, a naturally occurring mineral, has a rich history in medicinal applications dating back to the 19th century. Discovered in mineral springs and recognized for its calming properties, lithium was initially used in the treatment of a variety of ailments, including gout, headaches, and even as a general tonic for wellbeing. In the late 1800s, lithium salts were found in popular mineral waters and tonics, believed to promote health and longevity. The most significant breakthrough came in the mid-20th century, when lithium carbonate was introduced as an effective remedy for bipolar disorder, revolutionizing psychiatric care by stabilizing mood swings and reducing the risk of manic and depressive episodes.
Throughout history, lithium has also been incorporated into herbal and nutritional combinations. It is often found alongside herbs such as passionflower, valerian root, and lemon balm in supplements designed to support relaxation, emotional balance, and cognitive health. In these formulations, lithium is typically included in low, nutritionally relevant doses, such as lithium orotate, which is believed to be more bioavailable while minimizing potential side effects. These herbal blends leverage lithium’s natural mood-stabilizing and neuroprotective benefits, supporting mental clarity and resilience against stress.
Overall, lithium’s enduring legacy in traditional and modern medicine highlights its positive contributions to emotional and neurological health. Its thoughtful inclusion in both historical remedies and contemporary herbal combinations reflects a long-standing acknowledgment of its gentle yet profound effects on wellbeing.
Traditional and scientific validation
Lithium, a naturally occurring mineral, has a long history of use in medicine, particularly in psychiatric care. It was first utilized in the 19th century for its supposed calming effects, and by the mid-20th century, lithium salts became a mainstay in the treatment of bipolar disorder, with numerous clinical studies confirming its efficacy in stabilizing mood and reducing the recurrence of manic and depressive episodes. The scientific community widely acknowledges lithium's benefits in psychiatric medicine, and it remains a gold standard for mood stabilization.
Beyond its established use in psychiatry, lithium has been investigated as a trace element essential for human health. Some observational studies have found correlations between low environmental lithium levels and increased rates of mood disorders and even suicide, suggesting a potential supportive role for low-dose lithium in mental well-being. Additionally, emerging research has explored the role of lithium in neuroprotection, with some animal and preliminary human studies indicating possible benefits in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
In recent years, very low-dose lithium supplements have appeared in nutritional products, with proponents citing its essential trace mineral status and potential for supporting cognitive and emotional health. However, it is important to note that while these trends are promising, large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of lithium as a nutritional supplement are limited. More research is needed to fully establish its benefits and optimal dosing. Nevertheless, the historical and scientific backdrop underlines lithium's significant contributions to both medicine and ongoing nutritional science.
Lithium is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Bipolar Mood Disorder (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Mania (Scientific)
Mood Swings (Scientific)