Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, more commonly known as ADHD, is a behavioral condition that, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affects 3 to 5 percent of school-aged children. It can also affect adults. ADHD is characterized by inattentiveness and impulsive behavior and is usually treating by combining behavioral therapy with medicines that boost the level of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. The herb ginkgo biloba may help to alleviate ADHD, although conclusive evidence that it is effective is lacking. Do not take ginkgo instead of treatments your doctor prescribes and get medical advice before using it.
Properties
The UMMC notes that ginkgo is sometimes included in herbal preparations for ADHD and adds that it may help to improve memory and mental clarity. Ginkgo is one of the world's longest-surviving trees. Its leaves are used to make complementary medicine for a number of conditions including cancer, circulatory disorders and asthma and to boost cognitive function. It contains numerous biologically active compounds, including bilobalide and ginkgolides, which may help to boost blood supply to the brain.
Administration
Ginkgo is usually taken in tablets or capsules, although you may also be able to take this herb as an herbal tincture or as tea. Guidance regarding the required dosage for ADHD is lacking, but RxList suggests taking 120 mg to 600 mg daily to improve cognitive function in healthy young people. Bear in mind that the dosage you need to take may depend on your age and overall health. Ask a physician for further advice.
Effectiveness
The results of a clinical study carried out in 36 children aged 3 to 17 years, published in the May 2001 issue of the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience," show that taking an herbal preparation combining 200 mg of American ginseng and 50 mg of ginkgo twice daily for four weeks improves symptoms of ADHD. However, findings from a clinical trial published in the February 2010 issue of "Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry" show that ginkgo is less effective than the ADHD drug methylphenidate.
Safety Considerations
RxList notes ginkgo is likely safe for most people but states that it may cause several side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness and constipation. In regard to the clinical study on the combined use of ginkgo and American ginseng to treat ADHD, published in the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience," RxList notes that short-term use of this combination is also likely safe. Don't take ginkgo if you have a bleeding disorder as it may make your condition worse. Also avoid using this herb if you take anticoagulants. Don't consume raw ginkgo seeds, as they contain a chemical that may cause seizures. Get medical advice before using ginkgo, especially before using it in children.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Ginkgo
- RxList: Ginkgo
- "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience"; Effect of the Herbal Extract Combination Panax Quinquefolium and Ginkgo Biloba on Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Pilot Study; M.R. Lyon, et al.; May 2001
- "Progress in Neuropsychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry"; Ginkgo Biloba for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents: a Double Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial: B. Salehi, et al.; February 2010
