Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by inattentiveness and impulsiveness. ADHD commonly starts in childhood but may continue in adulthood. According to the U.K. National Health Service's website, NHS Choices, 15 percent of people diagnosed with childhood ADHD still experience the full gamut of ADHD symptoms by the time they are 25 years old. However, the website notes that symptoms of adult ADHD are often more subtle than those seen in children and may include mood swings, impatience and restlessness. Adult ADHD may be treated using behavioral therapies and medication. Some herbs may also help alleviate symptoms of adult ADHD, but scientific evidence to support their efficacy is limited.
Valerian
Valerian is a calming herb that may help soothe the nervous system and may be helpful for ADHD, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) website. Valerian is an herb native to Europe and Asia and is commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), valerian is safe when used for periods of six weeks or less, but its long-term safety is unknown. Valerian may cause side effects including fatigue, headache and dizziness.
American Ginseng and Ginkgo
A combination of the herbs American ginseng and ginkgo may improve ADHD symptoms, notes the UMMC website. A study published in the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience" in May 2001 found that an herbal product containing American ginseng extract and ginkgo biloba extract improved ADHD symptoms. However, the study was carried out in children only. American ginseng and ginkgo may both cause side effects and may interfere with the efficacy of other drugs. Do not use American ginseng if you are taking anticoagulants, diabetes medication or antidepressants. Avoid ginkgo if you have a bleeding disorder, are taking anticoagulants or are scheduled to undergo surgery as this herb may increase the risk of bleeding.
Roman Chamomile
Roman chamomile is normally used to relieve digestive disorders. However, the UMMC website notes that you may find this soothing herb helpful if you suffer from ADHD. MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, notes that this herb is usually safe when taken orally as a medicine or with food. However, large doses may cause vomiting and produce an allergic reaction in some people. Do not take Roman chamomile if you are pregnant as it may cause miscarriage.
References
- NHS Choices: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- NCCAM: Valerian
- PubMed: Effect of the herbal extract combination Panax quinquefolium and Ginkgo biloba on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a pilot study
- MedlinePlus: Ginseng, American
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginkgo biloba
