Herbal medicine is one of many natural treatment options used for treating a range of conditions, including Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This is part of a growing trend as people look for natural alternatives to medication with fewer side effects.
What is ADD?
ADD is a behavioural disorder caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. Sufferers struggle to deal with an excess of visual or auditory stimulation, which often leads to a range of learning difficulties.
ADD is predominantly observed in children, but some patients may suffer the condition into adulthood. Recent research has demonstrated that some people have one element of the condition – either hyperactivity or attention deficit – whilst others have both elements. ADD has traditionally been treated with medication, including drugs like Ritalin; which controversially has been linked with insomnia and a lack of creativity in patients. Modern treatment typically utilises medication in conjunction with natural approaches, including alterations to diet and exercise and herbal remedies as well.
What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine is an ancient tradition of healing using plants or elements of plants; including the flowers, stems, leaves and roots. These are typically used fresh, preserved or in the form of tinctures to heal a wide range of conditions, including high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, heart disease, skin conditions, diabetes and so many others. Some of the most well known proponents of herbal medicine are Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners, as well as the Ayurvedic healing tradition of India.
Herbal therapy offers numerous health benefits as it works on balancing the flow of energy in the body's different organ systems. Because of this, it is considered an extremely important part of the treatment plan for various conditions, and it can benefit people of all ages, even children.
How Can Herbal Medicine Help ADD?
Herbal remedies are commonly used for ADD due to their sedative or anxiolytic properties as well as their role in enhancing memory and cognition. Consultation with a herbalist will typically involve a holistic assessment of the patient, including information on their medical history and any medication currently being taken. A variety of herbs, including ginseng, are used to support treatment for children who suffer from inattentiveness, short attention spans and other symptoms of ADD. Other traditional herbal treatments for ADD that may be prescribed by a herbalist include:
- Ginkgo biloba is valued for its ability to promote enhanced blood flow in the brain, and its promising effects on adult cognition, concentration, and memory, making it useful for treating ADD.
- Kava is found to have anxiolytic, sedative, and muscle relaxant properties without adverse effects on cognitive function or mental acuity. Trials have suggested that kava is helpful for managing anxiety and tension.
- Chamomile is a natural relaxant that can help calm the mind and slow down intrusive thoughts that cause poor concentration.
- Rooibos can help normalise brain activity as it reduces anxiety and tension in the nervous system.
- Lemon balm contains phytochemicals that can relieve anxiety, stress and mood swings.
- Passion flower herbal tea reduces symptoms of anxiety and improves the body's energy levels.
- Hops can help improve sleep patterns and treat restlessness and irritability.
- Valerian has been found to improve brain function and concentration levels. A 2012 clinical trial for the efficacy of the herb in treating ADHD shows that it also helps treat restlessness and anxiety in children with the condition.
- Lobelia is a natural antidepressant that stimulates the production of the hormone dopamine in the brain.
Adequate levels of Vitamin D are also thought to be beneficial for ADD sufferers, which essentially involves ensuring one receives sufficient exposure to the sun.
Find out about other effective natural ADD treatments.
Originally published on Jul 02, 2010
