Natural Medication for ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an alarmingly common neurobehavioral disorder marked by persistent hyperactivity and learning difficulties. While ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in young children, it can also affect teens and adults. Since common pharmaceutical drugs for ADHD are associated with serious side effects, many nutritionists and naturopathic physicians recommend nutraceutical treatment for the majority of children affected by ADHD. Natural medications for ADHD can be highly effective and are associated with few serious side effects.

Acetyl L-Carnitine

• ALC (acetyl L-carnitine) is a safe, non-stimulant amino acid that has been clinically proven to be an effective treatment for attention-deficit, impulsive behavior and hyperactivity in children. Most peer-reviewed human studies have confirmed that it is primarily effective for children with the "inattentive" type of ADHD.

  According to a trial published in the "Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology," ALC has no obvious side effects. Since ALC is involved in the metabolism of essential fatty acids, the beneficial effects on ADHD may be caused by an enhanced absorption of omega-3 fats, which are known to be essential for brain function.

Fatty Acids

• The American diet is alarmingly deficient in omega-3 fats, which are found primarily in fish, grass-fed beef and a few plant-based oils. Since the brain is largely composed of omega-3 fatty acids, children are likely to become especially deficient during the periods of rapid brain development that occur during the preschool years. This deficiency may lead to chronic learning disorders and mood problems.

  Recent research suggests that a number of learning disabilities can be treated with omega-3 fatty acid supplements. A team of Swedish scientists discovered that about 25% of children with ADHD--specifically those with the inattentive subtype--responded significantly well to supplementation with omega-3 fats. Anecdotal data yields similarly encouraging results.

Herbal Supplements

• Ginkgo biloba and ginseng are two of the most commonly used herbal supplements for treating learning problems relating to ADHD. These two herbs were used in combination for a landmark study published in 2001, which ultimately concluded that the two products may be an effective natural treatment for ADHD symptoms.

  For acute symptoms associated with ADHD--including insomnia and episodic hyperactivity--some children may benefit from the use of sedative herbs like valerian and chamomile. While these herbs are unlikely to improve attention span, they can allow anxious, hyperactive children to relax.