Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, affects more children than most other neurobehavioral disorders, states the CDC. Although it is normal for children to have trouble concentrating from time to time, children with ADHD may engage in behaviors that are seemingly uncontrollable. This behavior may continue over time and cause significant problems at school, at home or in other social settings. Talk with your child's doctor about effective herbal remedies for this condition, and before starting any alternative remedies for ADHD.
ADHD Information
ADHD causes numerous learning and behavioral problems that can make life difficult for your child and the rest of the family. Children with ADHD are often labeled as learning disabled, although most children with this condition exhibit above-average intelligence and a high degree of creativity. The cause or causes of ADHD are currently unknown, however certain factors may contribute to this condition, including genetics, brain injuries, environmental exposure to certain substances, alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy, premature delivery and a low birth weight.
Useful Herbal Remedies
Natural health practitioners and proponents claim there are many herbs that may help treat your child's ADHD. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helpful herbal remedies for ADHD include bacopin, ginkgo, ginseng, mullein oil, valerian root, wood betony, thyme, catnip, chamomile, oats, lobelia, centella, kava kava, lemon balm, passionflower, licorice, skullcap, hops and St. John's wort. Always consult your doctor and follow the manufacturer-recommended dosage for children when giving these supplements to your child.
Wood Betony
Wood betony is a plant indigenous to Europe. Its leaves are used in herbal medicines. Wood betony is a leading herbal remedy in natural ADHD treatment. According to Balch, wood betony both stimulates your heart and relaxes your muscles. This herb improves your digestion and has been used to treat hyperactivity, cardiovascular disorders, nerve pain, headaches and anxiety attacks. Wood betony may also help treat gastritis, shingles, sinusitis and stress.
Considerations
To help treat your child's ADHD, consider limiting the number of carbonated beverages and processed foods he consumes. Carbonated beverages, notes Balch, contain signifcant amounts of phosphates, which may be responsible for hyperkinesis, or exaggerated muscle activity. All forms of refined sugar should also be removed from your child's diet. Exposure to television, videos, electronic games and loud music should be minimized. Consider encouraging your child to pursue outdoor physical activities or art forms that expand his creativity.
