Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD is one of the most common disorders of childhood, states the National Institute of Mental Health. It is distinct from the normal rambunctiousness and occasional lack of focus seen in normal children. ADHD is a brain disorder characterized by chronic inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Some herbal treatments may help. Since ADHD can severely affect a child's home and school life, a qualified health-care professional should evaluate suspected ADHD.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola is an adaptogen, an herb that helps increase the body's resilience and resistance to anxiety, trauma, stress and fatigue. It is used in Eastern European and Asian herbology as a nervous-system tonic, depression remedy and stimulant. In his book "Nutritional and Herbal Therapies for Children and Adolescents," psychologist George Kapalka states that rhodiola hasn't yet been clinically proven as an ADHD treatment, but that its psychostimulant and antidepressant effects make it an herb with possible efficacy for the condition. Noting that no adverse effects have been reported, Kapalka states that a daily dose of 100 mg can be cautiously tried in children under the supervision of a qualified health-care professional.
Pine-Bark Extract
According to Natalie Sinn, research fellow at the University of South Australia's School of Health Sciences, oxidative stress may contribute to ADHD. Antioxidants combat oxidative stress by protecting cells against free radicals, harmful molecules that are generated by normal metabolic processes as well as pollution, herbicides, and other environmental factors. Pine-bark extract is a potent antioxidant that may benefit ADHD patients. Sinn states that a controlled study of pine bark extract found that it significantly improved ratings of inattention and hyperactivity, hand-eye coordination and concentration in ADHD children. Like any herbal supplement, pine-bark extract has the potential to interact with drugs and other supplements. Consult a qualified health-care practitioner to determine whether pine-bark extract is appropriate for your child.
Ginkgo Biloba
A pilot study published in the journal "Phytotherapy Research" concluded that ginkgo biloba may be of benefit in ADHD, with few adverse side effects. In the study, patients with ADHD were rated before and during treatment with ginkgo biloba. During treatment, their scores for controlling immaturity, hyperactivity, and inattention significantly improved. Ginkgo biloba supplements are derived from one of the oldest living species of trees on earth. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo biloba improves the flow of blood to the brain and may protect nerve cells. Side effects are infrequent. Ask a pediatrician before adding this herbal treatment to your child's regimen.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginkgo Biloba
- "Nutritional and Herbal Therapies for Children and Adolescents"; George M. Kapalka; 2010
- "Nutrition Reviews"; Nutritional and Dietary Influences on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; N. Sinn; October 2008
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Ginkgo Biloba Treating Patients with Attention-Deficit Disorder; H. Niederhofer; July 2010
- NIMH: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
