🌿 Neurodiverse, Neurodivergent, Neurotypical: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever paused before saying neurodiverse or neurodivergent, worried about “getting it wrong” — you’re not alone. These words are among the most Googled in the neurodiversity conversation. And because language evolves quickly, even well-meaning people can feel unsure.
At Herbs on the Hill, we believe learning the language is more than a technicality. It’s an act of care — a way of saying you belong here, just as you are.
Understanding the Words 🌱
Neurodiversity
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The whole spectrum of human brains and minds.
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A reminder that differences (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) are a natural and valuable part of humanity.
Neurodivergent
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An individual whose brain works differently from the majority.
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Example: “I am neurodivergent.”
Neurotypical
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Someone whose brain follows the more common patterns in society.
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Not better or worse — just the most typical.
👉 Put simply:
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Neurodiversity = the whole garden 🌸
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Neurodivergent = one unique flower 🌻
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Neurotypical = the more common blooms 🌼
Why Language Feels Confusing 💡
It can feel awkward at first. People often say “she’s neurodiverse,” when what they mean is “she’s neurodivergent.” The difference matters because:
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Diverse refers to the group.
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Divergent refers to the individual.
But here’s the thing — taking the time to learn shows respect. Getting it right says: I see you, and I value your difference.
Options to Help 🌸
Neurodiversity isn’t an illness to be treated. But the challenges that sometimes come with it can be supported. Options to help are many — sometimes used alone, often woven together:
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Medication – sometimes prescribed to support focus, attention, mood, or sleep.
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Diet & lifestyle – balanced meals, hydration, movement, and rest steady the nervous system.
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Therapies & strategies – coaching, occupational therapy, or talking therapies help with skills and confidence.
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Sensory comfort rituals – aromatherapy, weighted blankets, music, or mindful pauses that bring grounding.
Every person’s mix is unique. What matters is finding what feels supportive for you.
What the Science Says 🌿
Scent has a direct line to the brain. When you inhale essential oils, molecules travel through the nose to the olfactory bulb, which links to the limbic system — the brain’s centre of memory, emotion, and stress response.
That’s why a smell can trigger comfort, recall safety, or soften overwhelm in an instant.
Research suggests:
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Lavender can encourage relaxation through the body’s natural calming system.
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Citrus oils (like orange, grapefruit, bergamot) have been linked to uplifted mood and focus.
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Rose has shown soothing effects on the nervous system and emotions.
Aromatherapy for Belonging & Comfort ✨
Herbs and oils have been used for centuries to comfort the spirit:
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Lavender was burned in medieval homes for calm.
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Frankincense has anchored rituals for thousands of years.
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Chamomile was once called the “herb of patience.”
Today, they can still act as steadying companions. Here are some allies:
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Lavender → a soft exhale, rest in the storm.
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Sweet Orange → a burst of sunshine when life feels heavy.
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Grapefruit → a clear, fresh breath of focus.
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Rose → a petal-like comfort for tender emotions.
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Neroli → a silken scarf of reassurance.
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Frankincense → grounding, like standing barefoot on earth.
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Cedarwood → rooted, steady, like leaning against an oak.
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Chamomile → gentle, soothing, a bedtime lullaby.
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Bergamot → uplifting, balancing, a friend for low moods.
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Clary Sage → calming, steadying in overwhelm.
👉 Each person’s sensory world is different. Start simple, notice how a scent makes you feel, and build your own comfort toolkit.
Simple Rituals to Try 🌸
Morning Reset
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Diffuse grapefruit or orange while getting ready.
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Let the scent signal clarity and focus for the day.
The Comfort Pause
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Keep a rose or lavender roll-on in your pocket.
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When overwhelm rises, pause and breathe: I am safe, I belong.
Bedtime Wind-Down
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Add 2 drops of lavender + 2 drops of chamomile to a diffuser.
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Let the aroma tell your body: it’s time to rest.
Safety Notes
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Always dilute essential oils before applying to skin.
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Peppermint blends may not suit very young children or those with asthma.
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Check safety guidance if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication.
FAQs 💡
Q: Can I say someone is neurodiverse?
A: Not quite. Neurodiversity describes the whole spectrum. The affirming term for an individual is neurodivergent.
Q: Does aromatherapy replace therapy or medication?
A: No. It’s not a replacement, but it can sit beautifully alongside other supports.
Q: Which oils are best to start with?
A: Lavender for calm, citrus for focus, or rose for comfort are gentle beginnings.
Language gives us belonging. Rituals give us grounding. Together, they remind us: you are not broken, you are whole.
At Herbs on the Hill, we’ve spent over 30 years handcrafting oils, balms, and mists to bring comfort into everyday life.
🌿 Explore our Limitless Collection, or visit us at 20 Bath Street, Frome.
💌 Questions? Reach us anytime:
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Live chat at HerbsontheHill.shop
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Socials: @herbsonthehill
You matter. Your words matter. And your rituals matter.
