Herbal Food Remedies For Adhd

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD causes difficulty paying attention, impulsivity and/or hyperactive behavior. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ADHD is one of the most common neurobehavioral conditions among children. Symptoms often last into adulthood. In addition to psychotherapy and medications, dietary changes may manage symptoms. Though scientific evidence regarding herbal remedies for ADHD is lacking, they may provide benefits. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor.

Grapeseed and Acidophilus

Preparing protein-rich foods with grapeseed extract provides a calming impact on children with ADHD, according to Theresa Roberts, author of "ABC's of Bumps and Bruises: A Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies for Children." She also suggests adding acidophilus --- healthy bacteria found in natural supplements and in foods, such as yogurt with live active cultures --- to meals for increased protection from infections and diseases that may exacerbate ADHD symptoms. For these benefits, marinate poultry breasts, lean meat or salmon in yogurt before cooking, or take doctor-approved supplements with your meals.

Fortified Soups and Beverages

Numerous herbal remedies for ADHD involve fortifying your own fluids such as soups and beverages with natural additives. Roberts recommends warming purple grape juice then adding Cal/Mag --- a natural calcium and magnesium supplement --- as a useful calming tool for hyperactivity. She also suggests incorporating fiber, in the form of psyllium husk, wheat bran or oat bran, to soups, juices or smoothies, for reduced toxicity in your body, and replacing sugar soft drinks with natural herbal teas for improved mood and energy balance. Adding ground flaxseed to smoothies provides omega-3 fatty acid benefits that may improve brain function. Vegetable soups may help prevent nutrient deficiencies, a possible link to ADHD symptoms.

Panax and Gingko

Panax and gingko, also called gingko biloba, are herbs that have been promoted as natural remedies for ADHD symptoms. A study published in the May 2001 "Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience" showed potential benefits of the herbs. In the study, 36 children with ADHD between ages 3 to 17 consumed capsules containing panax and gingko, in addition to their usual medication, twice daily for four weeks. By the study's end, the researchers observed improvements in social interaction and reduced hyperactive and impulsive behavior. Fewer children experienced harmful effects while taking the herbs. The researchers concluded that panax and gingko may help improve ADHD symptoms and should be further investigated. Since herbal supplements may cause side effects and are not generally recommended for children, discuss panax and gingko with your doctor before use. Both herbs may be consumed in supplement or tea-form.