Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, is a chronic condition that is typically diagnosed in early childhood. This term is often used interchangeably with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; however, people with ADD may not exhibit impulsiveness or hyperactivity. Symptoms of ADD include focusing difficulties, distraction and propensity for losing possessions. Herbs may not cure ADD; however, they may help control symptoms.
Talk to your doctor before taking any herb to address ADD symptoms.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, which is native to China, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years. Ancient Chinese physicians believed that ginkgo biloba could prevent heart disease and stroke. This herb also contains chemical compounds that may improve blood circulation to your brain. This may help reduce memory problems associated with ADD. Check with your physician if you plan to use ginkgo biloba to treat ADD. The chemicals in this herb may interfere with the production of blood platelets, which are essential for blood clotting.
Valerian
Valerian is a tall, thin-stalked herb native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. Ancient Greek physicians recommended valerian as a poison antidote. In the 1100s, German healers discovered the calming benefits of this herb. Valerian contains chemicals called valepotriates that may help reduce stress and improve mental focus. This may help alleviate forgetfulness and learning anxiety, which are common among people with ADD. Consult your physician before treating ADD symptoms with valerian. In rare cases, valerian may cause headaches and temporary vision problems.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a term that refers to American and Korean ginseng, herbs that have similar characteristics. It also refers to Siberian ginseng, which is not a true ginseng, but rather a plant with similar chemical makeup. Ginseng may help improve cognitive function in people with ADD and ADHD, particularly when taken in conjunction with ginkgo biloba. This herb may enhance circulation to your brain, and may help your immune system destroy infections that may damage brain cells. Talk to your doctor before taking ginseng for ADD -- it may interfere with normal heart rhythms.
Skullcap
Ancient Chinese healers originally used skullcap to treat epilepsy while American herbalists in the 1700s believed that skullcap could cure rabies. The chemical compounds in skullcap may have tranquilizing and sedative benefits. This may help improve sleep for people with ADD, which may enhance brain cell repair and improve cognitive function. Check with your physician before using skullcap to treat ADD symptoms. This herb may occasionally cause stomach upset.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
