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Herbal Supplements for ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) can cause concentration, memory, and language skill problems. Controversially, many stimulant medications are available on the market today, causing many parents of ADHD children to seek out more natural remedies.

  1. Brahmi

    • Brahmi (Bacopa monniera) is a semi-aquatic plant with distinctive white flowers found in India, Central America, and in the Florida wetlands. The herb has often been used in Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine as a treatment of inflammation, hair and skin growth, and as a powerful brain and nerve tonic. Brahmi may improve the concentration and memory problems of ADHD by balancing the levels of the important brain chemicals gamma-aminobutyric acid and glutamate. Adult dosage is 3,000 mg twice a day for a month at dawn and noon. Check with an integrated medical practitioner for the proper dosage for your child. This is is primary recommended remedy for ADHD.

    Catnip

    • Catnip (Neepta cataria) is a perennial mint similar in chemical structure to the major component in the sedative valerian root. This feline treat has been used to ease restlessness, tension, indigestion, congestion, and hyperactivity. A cup of warm catnip tea sweetened with a little honey is an effective calming remedy for children for ADHD. Make the tea by pouring a cup of boiling water over 3 tsp. of fresh catnip leaves or 1 tsp. of dried leaves. Do not use catnip if you are pregnant or suffering from menstrual disorders.

    Skullcap

    • Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is an herb with blue and light purple flowers that grows throughout the marshy lands of Canada as well as in the northern and eastern parts of the United States. The aerial parts and roots of the herb have been used to heal the nervous system, headaches, insomnia, and hyperactivity. Skullcap can calm the hyperactive child and improve body and mind functions through toning the nervous system. Drink it as an herbal tea by pouring a cup of boiling water over a teaspoon of the dried herbs and letting it steep for 15 minutes.

    German Chamomile

    • German chamomile (Matricara chamomilla) is an herbal remedy well-known for its abilities to soothe the body and mind. Some of its capabilities include relieving abdominal and stomach pain, increasing the flow of bile and digestive juices, treating thrush caused by Candida albicans, and calming the symptoms of ADHD. The herb has been known to relax the brain and the nervous system while being very safe for babies and children. Take some fresh or dried chamomile flowers and boil them in a pint of water for around 40 minutes before straining. Drink 1 to 2 cups at a time throughout the day to treat ADHD and migraine headaches.

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