Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a buzzword of the 21st century. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4.5 million children ages 5 to 17 were diagnosed with ADHD in 2006. Diagnoses are on the rise, especially among white, lower-class males. Warning signs such as impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattentiveness may appear early, and, if left untreated, may last well into adulthood. The American Academy of Pediatrics firmly states that research does not back up the efficacy of any herbs in ADHD treatment, despite anecdotal evidence to the contrary. The bottom line is that patients should communicate symptoms to their doctors and together come up with an individualized treatment plan that works.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is touted as a preventative measure against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, but natural health practitioners often use it to treat ADHD as well. A May 2005 Psychopharmacology study found a strong correlation between ginkgo biloba use and increased attention span, but the effects diminished after 6 weeks. This would suggest a tolerance of some sort that needs to be monitored by a professional. Ginkgo biloba increases blood flow to the brain, so continually increased dosage levels are unsafe.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is an herb that calms the nervous system and eases restlessness of the mind. It also boosts memory and attention span, which is why some herbalists use it in ADHD treatment. A 2004 Psychosomatic Medicine study found a positive correlation between lemon balm and focus, specifically the ability to accurately process mathematics. Lemon balm may be taken as a tincture or a tea.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a brain stimulant herb associated with memory improvement. It is usually taken in conjunction with ginkgo biloba in a pill or tincture. According to Medscape, the combination does lead to an improvement in ADHD symptoms, but not enough research has been done to strongly endorse ginseng as a treatment for ADHD.
Green Oats
Green oats, also called avena sativa, are usually taken as a tincture and may have a sedative effect, which can be helpful to those who suffer from ADHD. Healing Arts notes that cumulative use is key with green oats; it may take several weeks to see results. There are no known side effects of green oats, however research on their true efficacy in treating ADHD is limited.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Healing Arts: Treatments for Children with ADHD
- Natural Solutions: About Kids and Attention Disorders
- “Psychopharmacology”; Differential Cognitive Effects of Ginkgo Biloba After Acute and Chronic Treatment in Healthy Young Volunteers; Sarah Elsabagh, David E. Hartley, Osama Ali, Elizabeth Williamson, Sandra E. File; May 2005
- “Psychosomatic Medicine”; Attenuation of Laboratory-Induced Stress in Humans After Acute Administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm); David Kennedy, PhD, Wendy Little, Bsc; Andrew Scholey, PhD; 2004
