Herbal Remedies for ADHD for Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a disability that displays symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, short attention spans and forgetfulness, as well as irritability, insomnia, impulsiveness, restlessness, poor organizational skills, mood swings and depression. ADHD is believed to be caused by an impairment in the reticular activating system of the brain. If a person with ADHD receives too much visual, aural, emotional and other internal stimulation, the brain has a difficult time focusing on one thing while tuning out another. There are alternative herbal remedies available that can treat ADHD without the side effects of Western medicine.

Chamomile

• Many people drink chamomile tea before bedtime or to calm their nerves. Chamomile flower extract has properties that help relieve anxiety in those with ADHD. Remaining calm helps a person focus and stay more on task.

Gotu Kola

• Gotu Kola is known to promote blood circulation throughout the body. In India, Gotu Kola has a longstanding reputation for helping increase concentration and memory, which are often impaired by ADHD.

Ginkgo biloba

• Although Ginkgo biloba has been used in Chinese medicine since 2800 BC, Western medicine more recently uses the leaf extract for treating illnesses involving the brain and central nervous system. This herb acts as an antioxidant and stimulates blood circulation. A study by Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Regional Hospital Bozen in Bolzano, Italy, used the Wender Utah scale--a scale used to assess adults for ADHD--to test Ginkgo biloba as an alternative treatment for ADHD. "During Ginkgo biloba treatment, the patients' mean scores improved significantly overall and in hyperactivity, inattention, and immaturity factors. This preliminary study indicates that Ginkgo biloba might be a beneficial and useful treatment of ADD, with minimal side effects."

Scutellaria lateriflora (aka skullcap)

• Skullcap is mainly used to help relieve anxiety, insomnia, exhaustion and depression. It is rich in minerals that are needed to support a healthy nervous system. Some adults with ADHD have symptoms of irritability and anxiety. This herbal remedy may be used to help with these symptoms.

Rooibos

• This herb contains at least 37 natural antioxidants, minerals, vitamin C and alpha-hydroxy acids. It also has anti-spasmodic and anti-anxiety properties, making it useful for treating stress and insomnia.

Avena sativa (oatstraw)

• High in minerals, oatstraw is used in many nourishing drinks. The nourishing properties relieve some symptoms of attention deficit disorders and all types of nervous exhaustion.

Lemon balm

• Lemon Balm provides a mild sedative effect and has been used in treating ADHD. It is believed that Lemon Balm supports mental performance, attention span, accuracy and memory.

Valerian

• Valerian is best known to help people with insomnia have restful sleep without changing the natural stages of sleep. This herb is also useful as a mild sedative for people experiencing emotional stress.

Hawthorn

• This herb is believed to increase circulation to the brain and decrease inflammation caused by allergies associated with ADHD.

Warnings

• The above herbs are used for many different purposes, in addition to ADHD. Many people think that because herbs are natural, they are harmless and can be taken with anything or at anytime and in any amount. This is not true. Herbs can be very potent and must be used with discretion and with the help of a professional naturopath, doctor or herbalist. There can be adverse effects if used improperly. Fully read warning labels and directions for herbs before taking.