Alternative Medication for ADD

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affect between three and seven percent of children and two to five percent of adults in developed countries such as the US, UK and Japan. While prescription treatments such as Ritalin and Adderall are commonly used, more and more individuals are looking for alternative or natural treatments without the side effects common with these medications.

Nutrition

• The primary natural approach to managing ADD/ADHD is proper nutrition. Studies show that children with ADD/ADHD have lower blood levels of Omega-3 than non-ADD children. According to the University of Michigan Health Systems, a nutritional plan for ADD includes supplemental essential fatty acids (like Omega-3), 200 mg of magnesium per day, extra B vitamins, and following the Feingold diet. It also suggests supplemental DHA and L-carnitine.

  The basic dietary plan for ADD, ADHD, Autism and other modern diseases is the Feingold diet. This program eliminates artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, aspartame and other artificial sweeteners, as well as artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, TBHQ. Avoid processed and pre-packaged foods, and eat a diet based on whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and fresh, unprocessed meats.

Herbs

• Many people look to herbs as a natural alternative to medication. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a number of herbs and natural supplements have been found to be beneficial in treating symptoms of ADD and ADHD, including: American ginseng, lemon balm, evening primrose and melatonin. The last three on this list have a calming effect and can help to regulate sleep patterns. Although the prescriptions used to treat ADD are generally stimulants, the herbal treatments are relaxants. Other relaxing herbs include chamomile, kava kava and valerian root.

Homeopathy

• Homeopathy is based on Dr. Samuel Hahnemann's Law of Similars, which states that "like cures like". Homeopathic remedies are diluted forms of chemicals that would cause the very symptoms they treat if taken in a more potent form. By taking these diluted remedies, it stimulates a healing response in the body. While this sounds a lot like a vaccine, it is important to understand that the homeopathic remedies are highly diluted, many beyond a traceable amount; and unlike a vaccines, have no harmful side effects.

  One European study published in the European Journal of Pediatrics concluded that there is "scientific evidence of the effectiveness of homeopathy in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, particularly in the areas of behavioral and cognitive functions". There are specific homeopathic remedies for ADD/ADHD, which can be ordered online or from a homeopathic practitioner.

Aromatherapy

• Aromatherapy uses pure essential oils to elicit changes in behavior and alter moods. It is very gentle and therapeutic. While aromatherapy may not provide a cure for ADD/ADHD, it can help enhance the effects of other modalities. However, some essential oils actually act as antidotes for homeopathic medicines, and should not be used together. They are safe when used with herbal treatments or in conjunction with proper nutrition.

  Essential oils that help with concentration, focus and/or have a calming effect include: vetiver, lavender, sandalwood, cedarwood, and chamomile. For blends or uses of essential oils, see a natural health practitioner.

Combining Modalities

• There is no magic bullet for ADD/ADHD. Many benefit from a combination of several natural therapies including herbal remedies, dietary changes, homeopathy and/or aromatherapy. Consult with a natural health practitioner and find a combination that works for you.