When you hear the word lithium, many people first think of modern rechargeable batteries, battery technology or - with a skeptical eye - psychotropic drugs. But lithium is actually much more than that: it is a naturally occurring trace element that has been present in our environment since time immemorial - in rocks, in water and also in small quantities in plant-based foods.
The term "lithium" comes from the Greek lithos, which means "stone" - a fitting name, as lithium is one of the oldest elements on earth. It is in third place in the periodic table (Li) and is the lightest of all metals.
How does lithium work in the human body?
While high doses of Lithium (e.g. lithium carbonate) have been used in psychiatry for decades - for example in manic-depressive illnesses - another direction has emerged in recent years: the microdosing of lithium, especially in the form of lithium orotate.
In contrast to therapeutic doses of 300 to 1500 mg per day (lithium salt), microdoses are in the range of 1 to 5 mg of elemental lithium per day - a fraction of what is used in psychiatry.
Lithium acts on several levels in the central nervous system:
- NeuroprotectiveIt protects nerve cells from degradation and inhibits inflammatory processes in the brain.
- Mood stabilizingEven in the smallest amounts, it has a balancing effect on emotional fluctuations.
- Promotion of neurogenesisLithium stimulates the formation of new nerve cells in the hippocampus - an area of the brain responsible for memory and emotional balance.
- Inhibits suicidal thoughtsNumerous studies have shown that even small amounts of lithium in drinking water are associated with a significantly lower suicide rate.
Lithium in drinking water: an astonishing connection
As early as the 1990s, large-scale studies from the USA, Japan and Austria showed that the following phenomena occur in regions with higher lithium content in groundwater or drinking water:
- Lower suicide rate
- fewer violent crimes
- Fewer hospital stays due to mental health crises
- Higher life expectancy in some cases
One example: In a study from Texas, 27 counties were examined. In those regions with a higher lithium content in the water, the suicide rate fell by up to 40 % - in completely unmedicated people, mind you.
These effects occur at concentrations of just 0.1 to 0.3 milligrams of lithium per liter of water - far below therapeutic doses. It almost seems as if lithium in small quantities is an essential element for human emotional homeostasis.
Microdosing with lithium orotate: a new, old approach
Lithium orotate is a special form in which the lithium ion is bound to orotic acid - a carrier system that is intended to promote uptake into the cells. Orotic acid itself is also found in the human body and has been studied in the past as a transport molecule for minerals such as magnesium, zinc and calcium.
The advantages of lithium orotate in microdoses:
- Better bioavailability than other lithium salts
- Less strain on the kidneys and liver
- Gentle effect that often only becomes apparent after days or weeks
- Low risk of side effects, especially with a daily dose of less than 5 mg lithium
Experience reports show that many users report the following effects:
- More stable mood
- Less emotional irritability
- deeper sleep
- Improved cognitive clarity
- Less anxiety and brooding
Dr. Michael Nehls: The Lithium Revolution (Part 1)
Lithium orotate for long covid and post-vac syndrome
In recent years, two terms have entered common parlance that hardly existed before: long Covid and so-called post-vac syndrome. This refers to persistent symptoms that occur weeks or months after a Covid infection or vaccination - particularly in connection with mRNA vaccines.
A key symptom that many sufferers describe is brain fog - an elusive but very real cognitive impairment: Thinking becomes more difficult, remembering is laborious, concentration breaks down prematurely and the feeling of inner clarity is blown away.
Spike proteins, neuroinflammation - and the hippocampus
Some studies and observations indicate that persistent spike proteins - i.e. viral or vaccine-induced protein components - can remain in the body for longer than originally assumed. The central nervous system in particular appears to react sensitively to these structures. This often results in so-called neuroinflammation - a silent inflammation of the brain tissue that particularly affects the hippocampus.
The hippocampus is not only responsible for memory and learning, but also for emotional regulation. If this area is overloaded or inflamed, it can lead to symptoms such as:
- Brain Fog
- Lack of concentration
- Memory problems
- Irritability
- inner restlessness or nervousness
symptoms that many long-Covid and post-Vac sufferers describe.
Microdosing lithium: reduction in neuroinflammation
This is where lithium comes into play. Because, as current neurobiological research shows, low-dose lithium has an anti-inflammatory effect at the neuronal level. Doses of just 1 to 5 mg per day - as supplied via lithium orotate - can help to reduce the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lower oxidative stress in the brain.
The observation that lithium specifically protects and regenerates the hippocampus is particularly interesting. In animal models, even a low dose of lithium led to a significant reduction in microglia activity - these are the immune cells in the brain that are permanently "on attack" under chronic stress and can therefore cause damage.
Better thinking, deeper clarity - and a calmer nervous system
Many sufferers report the following improvements when taking lithium orotate regularly:
- Clearer thinking (reduction in brain fog)
- Deeper, more structured thinking
- More mental energy
- Less "frittering away" in everyday life
- Better quality of sleep
- Inner peace and emotional grounding
The regulating effect on the autonomic nervous system is also particularly interesting: according to subjective experience and initial observational studies, microdoses of lithium appear to dampen the autonomic nervous system without paralyzing it. People with nervous irritability, inner restlessness or nervous palpitations report that they feel less overstimulated, "nervous overload" or irritable with lithium orotate.
For long Covid and post-vac sufferers in particular, who often complain of a kind of permanent state of stress - both physically and mentally - this can be a possible key to finding a way out of permanent tension and back into a state of deeper regeneration.
Eliminating spike proteins? Lithium as a possible key mechanism
In alternative research approaches, especially in orthomolecular medicine, it is being discussed whether lithium - especially in combination with other nutrients such as zinc, selenium and quercetin - can support the cellular detoxification of spike proteins.
The theory behind it: Lithium promotes autophagy at the cellular level, i.e. the natural cellular cleansing process in which damaged or superfluous cell components are broken down and excreted. If this process functions optimally, foreign protein structures such as spike fragments could also be eliminated more efficiently.
Although there are still no large-scale studies on this in humans, initial case reports and preclinical models provide evidence of a lithium-induced normalization of cellular self-purification.
Classic lithium therapy vs. microdosing
In conventional medicine, lithium has been used as a highly effective psychotropic drug since the 1950s - particularly for bipolar disorders, manic-depressive illnesses and treatment-resistant depression. High doses are typically used, usually in the form of lithium carbonate or lithium citrate.
The therapeutic dose in this context is often between 600 and 1500 mg of lithium carbonate per day, which corresponds to around 150 to 400 mg of elemental lithium - i.e. 30 to 100 times as much the quantity used in microdosing.
As lithium interferes strongly with the metabolism at this dosage, patients undergoing lithium therapy must be regularly monitored medically:
- Blood level control to avoid poisoning
- Monitoring of kidney and thyroid values
- Sometimes severe side effects such as tremors, weight gain, thirst or memory problems
This contrasts with microdosing with lithium orotate, in which only 1 to a maximum of 5 mg of elemental lithium is supplied daily - i.e. physiological quantities that are even absorbed naturally in drinking water in some regions. The approach here is not a drug-based one, but a micronutrient-oriented one: lithium is not seen as a drug, but as a gentle regulator at cellular level, comparable to magnesium, zinc or selenium - only so far less well known.
While classic lithium therapy is intended to specifically suppress psychiatric symptoms, microdosing aims to promote mental balance, cognitive clarity and neuronal regeneration in everyday life - without pharmacological intervention, without a prescription and (in countries such as the USA) also without side effects on a relevant scale. These two applications therefore only have the name in common - but not the active principle, the objective or the risk-benefit ratio.
Why lithium is in every one of my books
In the M. Schall Verlag lithium is a central topic because - despite its invisibility in the public debate - it is a crucial building block for mental resilience, clarity and emotional stability. In each of our books - whether it's about crisis management, personal development or digital self-empowerment - there is a separate chapter or at least an excursus on lithium, its history and its underestimated role for body and mind. I myself have had very positive experiences with lithium, including as part of the treatment of my CMD (craniomandibular dysfunction) to which I have dedicated an entire book.
We are not following just any trend, but the convinced attitude of many doctors, biochemists and critical observers who have been campaigning for years for lithium in microdoses to finally be seen for what it is: an essential micronutrient that many people simply no longer consume in sufficient quantities because modern agriculture, filtered water and industrial nutrition have removed it from our everyday lives.
Some experts are now even calling for lithium to be added to drinking water in small doses - as has long been the case with fluoride or iodine. The discussion is ongoing, but until then it remains a matter of personal responsibility to acquire knowledge and act individually.
Recommended intake schedule for lithium orotate in microdoses
NoteThis is not a medical recommendation, but a structured overview of typical procedures for the individual, independent use of lithium orotate in microdoses, as described in the literature, by therapists and in user reports. A doctor should always be consulted if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking medication.
General principles
- Target area1 to a maximum of 5 mg elemental lithium per day
- Shapeusually 125 mg lithium orotate contains approx. 5 mg elemental lithium
- Start: Gradual dosing over several days or weeks
- Time of ingestionPreferably in the morning or at lunchtime, not in the evening, as lithium can affect the sleep rhythm in some people
- DurationFirst effects after approx. 1-2 weeks; full effect often only noticeable after 4-6 weeks. In the case of chronic problems, symptoms may intensify in the first 1-2 days due to increased detoxification processes.
1. for mental stability and emotional balance (everyday life / stress)
- Access1 mg/day (¼ tablet of 5 mg)
- Target area: 2-3 mg/day
- Durationcontinuous, with a monthly break (e.g. 3 weeks intake, 1 week break)
- ObservationsCalmer mind, fewer emotional overreactions, better handling of everyday stress
2. for ADHD / overstimulation / concentration disorders
- Access1 mg/day, hold for 3 days
- IncreaseIncrease by 1 mg every 3-4 days (max. 4 mg)
- Target area: 3-4 mg/day
- Can be combined withOmega-3, magnesium, L-theanine
- Observations: deeper concentration, less impulsiveness, better stimulus filtering
3. for long covid and post-vac (especially for brain fog and nerve irritation)
- Access1 mg/day over 5 days
- Increaseslowly up to 5 mg/day within 2 weeks
- Target area4-5 mg/day (upper range), if possible with medical supervision
- Additionally helpfulNAC, quercetin, zinc, melatonin (in the evening)
- Observationsmore clarity, less inner restlessness, improved sleep quality
4. burnout / inner exhaustion / irritability
- Access: 1-2 mg/day
- Target area2-3 mg/day for 4 weeks
- Mode5 days intake, 2 days break - for better assessment
- Observations: recurring emotional resilience, less feeling of being "burnt out"
5. for PMS / hormonal mood swings
- Access1 mg/day, approx. from the middle of the cycle (after ovulation)
- Target area2 mg/day until the start of menstruation
- ModeUse only in the second half of the cycle (14 days/month)
- Observationssofter emotional fluctuations, less irritability and tearfulness
6. for age-related irritability, memory impairment, sleep problems
- Access1 mg/day
- Target area1-3 mg/day
- Particularly suitableas a "gentle evening taper" → 3 days evening dose, then in the morning
- Observations: calmer thoughts, less night-time brooding, clearer memory
What to consider when sneaking in
- Less is often more. The effect is not immediately noticeable - patience is required.
- Observe individual reactionSome people react very sensitively to just 1 mg, others need 3-4 mg for a noticeable effect.
- Document accompanying symptomse.g. mood, sleep, concentration - ideally in a small diary or with an app.
- Incorporate regular breakse.g. 3 weeks intake, 1 week suspension for regulation
Contraindications and precautions
- Do not use in the case of existing kidney disease, cardiac arrhythmia or concurrent lithium medication (e.g. lithium carbonate).
- Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
- Interactions with diuretic medication or dehydrating agents are possible.
The legal situation in Germany and Europe
While lithium orotate is freely available as a dietary supplement in pharmacies and online stores in the USA and Canada, the situation in Europe - and especially in Germany - is quite different.
In the EU, lithium is not an approved nutrient under the Novel Food Regulation. This means that lithium orotate cannot be legally sold as a food supplement in Europe - even in microdoses that are far below any toxicological threshold.
This situation is now being critically questioned by numerous doctors, therapists and patient representatives. This is because while high-dose lithium is prescribed in the form of psychotropic drugs, sometimes with considerable side effects, the gentle micronutrient variant remains inaccessible to the general public.
Some points that are often criticized:
- No differentiation between therapeutic and microbiological dose
- No scientifically substantiated classification as an essential trace element
- No access for people who want to specifically strengthen their resilience and mental health
- A return to traditional values?
Dr. Michael Nehls: Lecture at the EU Parliament in July 2025
The question arises as to whether today's society - characterized by high technology, control and pharmaceutical regulations - has lost sight of the essentials. In earlier times, water from springs rich in natural minerals was not only a blessing for agriculture, but also for people.
The idea that an element such as lithium - once naturally present in many drinking water sources - is now almost completely removed by modern filtration and treatment processes makes us wonder. Perhaps it is time not to pathologize everything that could have an effect, but rather to ask questions:
Why do natural microdoses have such a stabilizing effect - and why is there so little knowledge about them?
Sources of supply and practical application
Although lithium orotate is not approved as a dietary supplement in Europe, there are still legal ways to obtain it. In other countries - such as the USA or Canada - it is freely available for sale and can be easily ordered from international retailers, for example on Amazon or eBay. Many users also resort to food-grade laboratory supplies: pure lithium orotate powder is available there in technical purity and can be dosed independently.
A proven mixing ratio for preparing a low-dose solution is 10 g of lithium orotate to 1 liter of water. This means that one milliliter of solution contains about 0.4 to 0.5 mg of elemental lithium - exactly in the range of the recommended microdosing. The solution can be stored in the refrigerator and taken daily drop by drop or in small portions.
As always, it is important that anyone using such substances should inform themselves thoroughly, dose carefully - and never act "on good luck" without good sense. Lithium is gentle, but not arbitrary.
Frequently asked questions
- What is lithium anyway - and why does it play a role in the body?
Lithium is a naturally occurring trace element and the lightest of all metals. It is found in trace amounts in soil, plants and drinking water. Although it is only known to many as a component of batteries or psychotropic drugs, it presumably performs important tasks in the body - particularly in the areas of nerve regulation, mood control and cell stabilization. Some researchers now even consider it an "essential micronutrient". - What is the difference between lithium carbonate and lithium orotate?
Lithium carbonate is a high-dose prescription medication used to treat severe psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder - with doses 150 to 400 times higher than microdosing. Lithium orotate, on the other hand, is taken in very small amounts (1-5 mg/day of elemental lithium) and is considered a dietary supplement in the USA. It binds lithium to orotic acid, which is said to improve absorption. - What does microdosing of lithium mean?
Microdosing means that only very small amounts of a substance are taken - in the case of lithium, around 1 to 5 mg of elemental lithium per day. This dose is well below therapeutic levels and is not aimed at treating serious illnesses, but at promoting mental clarity, emotional stability and neuronal regeneration. - What can microdoses of lithium orotate be used for?
Many report positive effects with:
- Long-Covid and Brain Fog
- Nervousness and inner restlessness
- Concentration disorders (e.g. ADHD)
- Burnout and emotional exhaustion
- PMS and hormone-related irritability
- age-related memory loss
ImportantThis is not a medical treatment, but an individual supplement to support general well-being. - Is lithium orotate legally available in Germany?
In Germany and the EU, lithium is not approved as a food supplement - neither in the form of orotate nor as another compound. However, it is possible to purchase it from international suppliers (e.g. Amazon, Laborbedarf). Many people order food-grade lithium orotate powder and prepare their own solutions in a responsible dosage. This is done at their own risk. - How to dose lithium orotate correctly?
Dosages of 1-5 mg of elemental lithium per day are typical. A common preparation with 125 mg lithium orotate contains approx. 5 mg elemental lithium. If you work with powder, you can, for example, dissolve 10 g in 1 liter of water - 1 ml of this solution then contains about 0.5 mg of lithium. It is advisable to take it in the morning or at lunchtime. It makes sense to start gradually. - How quickly does lithium orotate take effect?
Many report initial effects after 7-14 days - often subtle: better quality of sleep, less irritability, calmer nervous system. The full effect usually unfolds after 4-6 weeks. It is a gentle-acting micronutrient system, not an acute remedy. - Are there any side effects with microdosing?
Side effects are very rare at doses below 5 mg/day. It is important to drink enough, as lithium is excreted via the kidneys. People with kidney disease, thyroid problems or cardiac arrhythmia should seek medical advice in advance. - Is lithium suitable for everyone?
No. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, people with kidney problems or those already taking lithium medication should not take lithium orotate in addition. People with extremely sensitive reactions to minerals should also start with a minimal dose and observe. - Are there any studies on the effect of low-dose lithium?
Yes, several studies show, for example, that regions with higher lithium levels in drinking water have lower suicide rates and better mental health. In animal studies, lithium shows effects on neurogenesis, hippocampal regeneration and inflammation reduction. However, clinical research on microdosing in humans is still in its infancy. - What is the connection between lithium and Long-Covid or brain fog?
Long-Covid patients often suffer from cognitive disorders ("brain fog"), nerve irritation or sleep disorders. Initial observations indicate that lithium has an anti-inflammatory effect in the brain (especially in the hippocampus) and can support cellular self-cleaning (autophagy). This could help to break down persistent spike proteins - although further studies are required. - Can lithium be discontinued?
Yes, microdosed lithium is not addictive. Many users stop taking it after a few weeks to test the effect. Some return to taking it, others stop permanently. There are no withdrawal symptoms as there is no pharmacological binding. - Why is lithium in all books published by M. Schall Verlag?
Because lithium - just like magnesium or zinc - has been underestimated. It is a "forgotten trace element" that represents a gentle, silent force in times of constant stress, digital overstimulation and social alienation. That is why it is given its own chapter in every book or at least addressed - as a building block of a holistic view of resilience, health and clarity. - Are there alternatives to lithium orotate?
If you don't want orotate, you can find out about lithium chloride or aspartate - however, both are more difficult to dose and sometimes less bioavailable. Natural sources such as lithium-rich spring water (e.g. from certain regions in the Alps or in Texas) often only contain 0.1-0.3 mg/L - i.e. very little. Targeted microdosing is therefore the most practicable method. - What happens after reading the article?
The next step is not to order a preparation straight away, but to research, reflect and observe for yourself. If you want to delve deeper, you can find further articles and books at M. Schall Verlag - and can contact us directly if you have any questions or thoughts. This article is not intended to provide truth, but rather food for thought - in the best sense of the word.