Herbal Remedies for ADHD in Children

Most parents, like myself, who have children in the public school system, either have a child or know of other children receiving medication for ADHD. In the United States, about 4.7 million children ages 3 - 17 have been diagnosed at some point with ADHD. The U.S. alone accounts for 90% of worldwide prescriptions for stimulants for ADHD.

What is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder)is a condition is marked by learning disabilities, frequent forgetfulness, impaired judgment, excessive talking/interrupting, trouble concentrating, shortened attention span, and organization problems. ADHD has been linked to abnormalities in nerve pathways and brain function as well as, chemical imbalances and genetic factors.

Many children are dealing with this disorder and have unfortunately become dependent on prescription drugs to get through the day. However, as with any drugs, there are side effects and most parents would like to spare their children that issue. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives that have been shown to be very effective in treating this condition which can often balance the brain chemistry naturally without the side effects of medications. Here are some herbs that have proven beneficial in treating ADHD.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo leaves are remarkable for their ability to increase local blood flow to brain, bringing greater oxygenation to the tissues, while acting as a neural antioxidant.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica, also Hydrocotyle asiatica)
Research has also demonstrated the beneficial effect of Gotu Kola, Centella asiatica, on memory, concentration and mental performance levels. They have also been found to be useful for cognitive and nervous disorders and vascular problems of the brain.

Green Oats (Avena sativa)

The fresh green seeds have been used as a mild antispasmotic and nourishing nerve tonic. Its tonic effects are not immediatly stimulating as with caffeine, but are cummulative and resotorative over time with continued use.

Ginseng

Ginseng may boost mood, improve memory and attention, lengthen physical and mental endurance, improve test scores, and ease anxiety. Eleuthero,(Siberian Ginseng), boosts concentration and focus without the letdown than comes from stimulants like caffeine.

Brahmi (Bacopa monniera)

This Ayurvedic herb has a long history of use as a cognitive enhancer. Research shows that it the protects brain from free radical damage even better than the cognitive-enhancing drug deprenyl (Battacharya), while stimulating improved learning and cognitive function.

Yerba Mate

Mate has the effect of stimulating the mind, increasing concentration and easing depressive moods, while not interfering with sleep like coffee may.

Rosemary

Rosemary shampoo, rosemary tea and rosemary in the bathwater would have anti-Alzheimer's activity similar to that of tacrine or huperzine due to its potent antioxidant, rosemarinic acid. Rosemary also contains half-dozen compounds that are reported to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain, which reportedly slows progression of the disease. It is good for memory and improved focus.

There's currently no cure for ADHD yet, the right treatment plan for each individual child may help him/her reach their full potential. Hopefully, more research in this area may find a cure for this condition.

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