Parents of children who are diagnosed as hyperactive are often faced with the decision of putting children on strong medication or looking for alternative means of treatment. The symptoms of hyperactive children are inattention, impulsiveness and an inability to be still. These symptoms can cause problems in school and at home, and some herbal remedies have shown promising evidence of treating them.
Ginseng
Asian ginseng, also known as panax ginseng, has been used since ancient times as a treatment for many ailments, such as headaches, indigestion, fever and infertility. More recently, scientists have researched its effects on diabetes, cancer and inflammatory diseases. The roots and offshoots called root hairs are dried and sold submerged in liquid or as supplements. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that one preliminary study suggested that ginseng, when combined with gingko, may be helpful in controlling hyperactivity, possibly due to its stimulant effects.
Valerian
Valerian is a plant native to Europe and Asia that has been naturalized in the United States. It is dried and sold as teas or tinctures, and extracts are often made into pills or other supplements. It has been used for centuries to treat various maladies, including insomnia and other sleep disorders, epileptic seizures and headaches. The Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health reports that it is also used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, although there has not been evidence that it works.
Passionflower
Passionflower was originally discovered in Peru and has been used as a mild sedative and as a treatment for problems that require sedative properties. The above-ground portions of the plant are used for treatments and are sold in liquid extract or tablet form. The calming effects of the plant have made passionflower useful for anxiety, seizures, palpitations and high blood pressure. It is also used to treat hyperactivity. MedlinePlus reports that it may not be safe to take in large amounts, and that it can cause dizziness, irregular muscle coordination and confusion.
Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil, which both come from the flax plant, may be helpful for hyperactivity. Both are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are converted by your body into "brain food." Flax plants have been used to treat many diseases, from cancer to high cholesterol, and flaxseeds and their oils are also used to help with hyperactivity. The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine explains that the omega-3 fatty acids boost cognitive function, which may help with control.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - Other Treatments
- National Institutes of Health: Office Of Dietary Supplements: Valerian
- MedlinePlus: Passionflower
- University of Maryland Medical Center: American ginseng
- MedlinePlus: Flaxseed
- Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine: ADD/ADHD
