Natural Therapies for Bipolar Disorder: A Functional and Biochemical Approach
It’s not just “ups and downs.” It’s exhilarating highs followed by crushing lows—and everything in between. For many, bipolar disorder disrupts relationships, work, and the sense of self.
But behind the mood instability, there are often deeper, measurable imbalances—nutritional, biochemical, and genetic. At BalanSoul, we explore these root causes using advanced testing and a personalized, integrative model.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
What is bipolar condition? It’s a complex disorder marked by episodes of depression and mania (or hypomania).These shifts can be sudden and dramatic—or more subtle and prolonged. While medications are often prescribed, many people continue to experience mood instability, brain fog, or emotional reactivity despite treatment.
At BalanSoul, we view bipolar disorder not as a character flaw—but as a brain-based, biochemical condition that can be supported with the right tools and insights.
There are several forms:
- Bipolar 1: Classic manic and depressive episodes
Some cases of bipolar 1 disorder with psychotic features may involve hallucinations or delusions during manic episodes.
- Bipolar 2: Hypomania (less severe mania) with major depression
- Cyclothymia: Milder but persistent mood swings
- Rapid Cycling or Mixed States: Fluctuations within days or even hours
Understanding the Bipolar 1 and 2 difference is key to developing a targeted, functional care plan.
In bipolar disorder with depression, the low phases may dominate, leading to misdiagnosis as major depressive disorder.”
Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Common symptoms may include mood instability, disrupted sleep, irritability, brain fog, difficulty focusing, and changes in energy or motivation.
The signs of bipolar disorder in women may include rapid cycling, more depressive episodes, and hormonal sensitivity.
In contrast, signs of bipolar disorder in men may lean toward manic episodes, aggression, or risk-taking behaviour.
The Epigenetic Nature of Bipolar Disorder — A Hidden Timebomb
According to the pioneering work of Dr. William Walsh, bipolar disorder is not simply a neurotransmitter issue — it is a long-latency epigenetic condition, more comparable to cancer than to conventional psychiatric diagnoses.
How Epigenetics Drives Bipolar
As we age, oxidative stress from infection, trauma, toxins, and nutrient depletion begins to damage the epigenetic bookmarks on our DNA — the methyl and acetyl groups that regulate gene expression.
Just like childhood sunburns can lead to skin cancer decades later, bipolar disorder often doesn’t appear until ages 18–25, when enough cumulative biochemical damage builds up to destabilize brain systems.
This is especially important for those with hidden vulnerabilities in their neurotransmitter regulation, antioxidant defenses, and methylation pathways.
What Goes Wrong at the Molecular Level?
- Neurotransmitter transporter genes (e.g. SERT, DAT) become over- or under-expressed due to histone changes that silence or activate them
- Methylation and acetylation enzymes (e.g. methyltransferases, acetylases) become dysregulated, leading to unstable gene expression
- Potassium channels, BDNF, and over 400 regulatory genes involved in cognition and emotion can become oxidatively impaired
⚡ Bipolar disorder is not random. It’s the result of a slow, cumulative biochemical injury to the systems that regulate emotion.
This insight is drawn from Dr. William Walsh’s new book on bipolar disorder. George at BalanSoul is certified in the Walsh Protocol and applies its science-based framework to support biochemical balance and mental wellbeing.
Why Early Detection Matters
- Sleep-wake cycle disruption
- High sensory sensitivity (light, sound, stress)
- Mood reactivity and impulsiveness
- Periods of unexplained anxiety or euphoria
- Normalize methylation and antioxidant markers
- Prevent irreversible histone modifications
- Halt progression toward manic-depressive episodes
- Preserve brain resilience before breakdown begins
Bipolar disorder isn’t just inherited — it’s shaped by oxidative stress, trauma, and nutrient depletion. These can be tested and supported with targeted care.
Bipolar and Premature Aging: The Overlooked Crisis
Dr. Walsh also highlights that untreated bipolar disorder is associated with accelerated aging:
- Increased oxidative damage reduces DNA repair and mitochondrial health
- Life expectancy is nearly 15–20 years shorter than average
- Risk of early-onset cardiovascular disease, cancer, and dementia is higher
That’s why we emphasize:
- Antioxidant therapy
- Metallothionein promotion
- Epigenetic nutrient correction
These aren’t optional — they are vital for preserving long-term brain and body health.
Root Causes & Contributing Factors
| Biotype | Possible Bipolar Traits |
| Undermethylation | High drive, perfectionism, long-term depression |
| Overmethylation | Rapid cycling, mood swings, high emotional sensitivity |
| Pyrrole Disorder | Poor stress tolerance, anxiety, and sleep issues |
| Copper Overload | Irritability, ruminative thoughts, and hormonal mood swings |
Biochemical & Nutrient Imbalances (Walsh Model)
- Copper-Zinc Ratio Imbalance – Elevated copper and low zinc disrupt dopamine and norepinephrine balance
- Methylation Imbalance – Overmethylation or undermethylation impacts mood, cognition, and drug tolerance
- Pyrrole Disorder – Depletes zinc and B6, driving emotional reactivity
- Low Metallothionein Activity – Increases oxidative stress and impairs detox
- B12, Folate, Homocysteine Irregularities – Impact neurotransmitter production and methylation
Genetic Vulnerabilities
- MTHFR, COMT, MAO, and DAO SNPs
- Family history of mood disorders, schizophrenia, ADHD
Lifestyle & Environmental Triggers (Greenblatt Model)
- Trauma, adverse childhood events, or unresolved grief
- Poor gut health and microbiome disruption
- Blood sugar instability, processed food diets
- Sleep deprivation and circadian rhythm disruption
- Alcohol or recreational drug use
- Nutrient-depleting medications (e.g. antacids, contraceptives)
📘 The Essence of Bipolar Disorder — New Book by Dr. William Walsh
This webpage includes insights drawn from Dr. Walsh’s upcoming book, The Epigenetic Code of Bipolar, set for release in September 2025. As an advanced graduate of the Walsh Institute, George shares core discoveries with you ahead of time — all integrated into your care at BalanSoul.
Stay tuned — or better yet, take the first step now.
👉 Curious if biotype-based support could help with your bipolar symptoms?
Book a free discovery call and let’s map out your personalized care plan together.
or 👉 “Learn how biotype-based plans work”
A groundbreaking book that redefines the medical framework for bipolar disorder—offering new hope to those affected by this complex and often devastating condition.
Drawn from cutting-edge research in neuroscience and genetics, Dr. Walsh’s work points to late-onset epigenetic changes as a core driver of bipolar illness — and opens the door to early detection, antioxidant support, and future prevention.
What It Feels Like to Live with Bipolar
“I can’t trust my own moods.”
“When I’m up, I feel invincible—until I crash and disappear for weeks.”
“I feel everything, all the time, and it’s exhausting.”
Clients often describe being misunderstood, overmedicated, or misdiagnosed. Many have tried multiple antidepressants or mood stabilizers with limited results—and feel like no one is treating the why behind their symptoms.
You’re not alone—and there are other paths to explore.
Functional Lab Testing to Uncover Root Causes
- Whole Blood Histamine – Methylation status
- Zinc, Copper & Ceruloplasmin – Oxidative stress and neurotransmitter modulation
- Pyrrole Testing (HPL) – Screens for emotional stress intolerance
- Homocysteine, B12, Folate – Methylation and detox pathway support
- OAT (Organic Acids Test) – Neurotransmitter metabolites, inflammation, nutrient need
- Genetic SNP Testing – MTHFR, COMT, GAD, DAO
- Hair Mineral Analysis (HTMA) – Lithium, magnesium, copper patterns
These tests help us tailor your treatment to your actual biochemistry—not assumptions.
What Makes Our Approach Different
Most practitioners focus only on managing mood. At BalanSoul, we apply a functional and epigenetic psychiatry model to uncover and address the deeper drivers of bipolar tendencies:
Assess your methylation blueprint and biotype patterns (e.g. undermethylation, pyrrole traits, copper overload)
Measure oxidative stress, copper/zinc balance, and histamine as key functional markers
Rebuild the brain’s antioxidant defense system using targeted nutrient therapies
Support gene expression and long-term brain function for lasting mood resilience
This isn’t just about feeling better — it’s about reclaiming health, clarity, and decades of quality life.
In 2018, Dr. William Walsh presented a revolutionary new model of bipolar disorder at the American Psychiatric Association Annual Conference, proposing that the condition stems from progressive epigenetic injury — not just neurotransmitter imbalance.
This model links oxidative stress, impaired gene expression, and nutrient-related vulnerabilities to the manic-depressive cycle, and has been called one of the most important breakthroughs in modern psychiatry.
George at BalanSoul is one of the few Australian practitioners trained in this advanced protocol and is already integrating these insights into personalized care for clients navigating bipolar spectrum challenges.
Integrative Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
Our goal isn’t just to stabilize your mood—it’s to use natural mood stabilisers that optimize brain function, reduce reliance on polypharmacy, and restore quality of life.
Natural mood stabilisers like magnesium, taurine, and EPA are often used in personalized care plans at BalanSoul to support calm, clarity, and resilience.
Nutrient Therapy (based on Walsh & Greenblatt)
- Zinc – For copper regulation and neurotransmitter stability
- SAMe, Methionine, or Folinic Acid – Based on methylation status (never folic acid)
- Vitamin B6 & P5P – For pyrrole and neurotransmitter support
- Magnesium Glycinate or Taurate – For calming and sleep
- Taurine, Lithium Orotate – To stabilize mood and reduce manic swings
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA dominant) – Anti-inflammatory and mood support
- NAC, Inositol, L-Theanine – To regulate glutamate, support calm, reduce anxiety
Supplementation is never one-size-fits-all. Your plan is matched to your biotype and sensitivities.
Clients often arrive already prescribed a bipolar 2 disorder medication, like lamotrigine or quetiapine — and we work safely alongside these treatments.”
Botanical and Lifestyle Support
- Adaptogens to balance HPA axis (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Reishi)
- Anti-inflammatory herbs (Curcumin, Boswellia)
- Gut healing protocols (if dysbiosis is present)
- Gluten/dairy-free diet trial in sensitive individuals
Mind-Body & Trauma Integration
- Vagus nerve toning, breathwork, and polyvagal therapy
- Somatic processing and trauma-sensitive CBT or IFS
- Light therapy and circadian rhythm reset
Don ’ t try to self - treat bipolar with random supplements. What helps one person may worsen another, especially with biotype imbalances like copper overload or pyrrole disorder. Always work with a trained practitioner.
Medication Notes
We support your current psychiatric care and do not ask clients to discontinue medications without collaboration with their prescriber.
Conventional care often includes bipolar antipsychotics or mood stabilizers. While these can be helpful, side effects are common — and not everyone responds well.
We may review medications like lamotrigine in bipolar disorder, which is often prescribed for Bipolar II.
Some clients are on lithium in bipolar treatment, and we provide nutrient strategies that don’t interfere with it.
That said, many clients report improved medication tolerance, fewer side effects, and even the ability to reduce doses over time — as their nutrient and biochemical balance is restored.
What to Expect When Working With Us
- 90-minute initial consult, plus intake review
- Optional lab testing based on symptoms and history
- Individualized supplement and diet plan
- Education and support through each phase of care
We believe in addressing root causes, not just managing symptoms. We walk with you every step of the way.
Common Questions
Do I have to stop my medications?
No. We work alongside your current treatment plan. Our goal is to reduce the need for higher doses or extra medications over time—but only with support.
Can this help if I'm already on medication?
Yes. Our goal isn’t to take you off medication—but to improve your stability, reduce side effects, and support long-term mood resilience.
What if I’ve been misdiagnosed?
Many clients come to us with overlapping labels like ADHD, BPD, or depression. Functional testing helps clarify what’s really going on.
Is this approach suitable for rapid cycling or bipolar II?
Yes. In fact, biochemical patterns like pyrrole disorder and copper overload are often more common in those subtypes.
Can this help with mixed states or irritability?
Absolutely. Many of our clients have been misdiagnosed with ADHD, borderline personality, or anxiety when their core issue was bipolar spectrum.
How does bipolar disorder affect relationships?
Bipolar disorder and relationships can be deeply impacted by mood unpredictability — which is why clarity and emotional regulation are key parts of our care plan.
Looking to Learn More?
You can request our free Bipolar Biotype Summary to learn how personalized nutrient therapy can support long-term mood balance.
