Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly referred to as ADHD, is a developmental disorder that usually starts in childhood and often continues during adolescence. It can also affect adults. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD is characterized by difficulty focusing on a task, becoming easily bored, a tendency to daydream and excessive fidgeting. Drug therapy is often used to control symptoms and improve overall functioning. Psychotherapy may also help modify behavior. Some vitamins and herbs may alleviate symptoms of ADHD although clinical studies to show that herbs can improve ADHD symptoms are limited.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6, a water-soluble vitamin found in foods such as fortified cereals, poultry, fish and fruits and vegetables including bananas, spinach and avocado, manufactures and utilizes several neurotransmitters that the brain needs, including serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. A high dose of vitamin B-6 may improve hyperactivity in children, but scientific evidence to support this is mixed. In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center website notes that high doses of vitamin B-6 may cause nerve damage and should not be given to children without consulting a doctor first.
Valerian
Valerian, a calming herb that has been used as a medicinal remedy since the second century, treats anxiety disorders and aids sleep. Valerian soothes the nervous system and eases ADHD symptoms, although scientific evidence to show this is limited. The roots and underground stems are used to make herbal preparations including capsules, tinctures and teas. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, short-term use of valerian is safe, but there are not enough studies evaluating the safety of long-term use. Side effects may include headaches, an upset stomach and fatigue.
American Ginseng and Ginkgo
A study published in the May 2001 edition of the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience" found that a combination of American ginseng extract, Panax quinquefolium and ginkgo biloba extract taken twice daily for four weeks reduced the severity of ADHD symptoms in children aged three to 17 years. Ginkgo may cause side effects, including nausea, headache and diarrhea. Do not take ginkgo if you have a bleeding disorder or if you take anticoagulants as it may increase the risk of bleeding. American ginseng rarely cause side effects but is contraindicated in a number of conditions including breast cancer, bipolar disorder and hypoglycemia.
References
- National Institutes of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B6
- NCCAM: Valerian
- PubMed: Effect of the Herbal Extract Combination Panax Quinquefolium and Ginkgo Biloba on Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Pilot Study
- NCCAM: Ginkgo
