Hyperactivity occurs when your body has too much muscle activity, according to MedlinePlus. It is often associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and includes specific characteristics such as persistent activity, impulsiveness, aggressiveness and an inability to concentrate. Taking certain herbs may help to calm hyperactivity although no definitive scientific evidence is available to illustrate its efficacy. Always consult your physician prior to taking an herbal supplement.
Gingko Biloba
The herb gingko biloba is a common herbs recommended by naturopaths for hyperactive individuals. It functions by enhancing the memory and overall brain function due to the presence of Centella asiatica, according to Linda Sonna in the book "The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with ADD/ADHD." Generally speaking, herbs like gingko biloba that increase the flow of blood to the brain increase memory as well as reduce hyperactivity, Sonna notes. Dosing is ¼ to 1 cup of tea, two to four times per day.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is well known for its tranquilizing properties and has even had use as a anticancer herb, according to Phyllis Balch in her book "Prescription for Herbal Healing." Balch recommends mixing lemon balm with valerian capsules and taking 240 mg 45 minutes prior to sleep to garner the calming effects. As an adaptogen, lemon balm helps in hyperactivity by enhancing cognitive function and improving the mood of the consumer, David Winston and Steven Maimes say in their book "Adaptogens."
Chamomile
Chamomile has very distinct sedating properties helpful in quelling hyperactivity, according to Mark Wolraich et al. in the book "Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics." Sonna recommends using chamomile as a tea and combining it with lemon balm for an effective tincture in reducing the characteristic symptoms of hyperactivity. Like lemon balm, chamomile is an adaptogen that soothes the central nervous system thereby reducing tension and emotional responses often seen in hyperactivity, Wolraich says.
References
- MedlinePlus: Hyperactivity
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2002
- "Adaptogens"; David Winston and Steven Maimes; 2007
- "The Everything Parent's Guide to Children with ADD/ADHD"; Linda Sonna; 2005
- "Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics"; Mark Wolraich et al.; 2008
