Attention deficit disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADD and ADHD, are both disorders of development hallmarked by an inability to focus, learning disabilities, impulsiveness and excessive restlessness. ADD and ADHD are among the most common neurological disorders affecting children in the United States. ADD and ADHD can also affect adults, and the symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with the activities of daily living. Conventional treatment includes therapy and medication, but ask your physician about the use of herbs to help improve symptoms.
Gingko Biloba
Gingko biloba, the oldest living species of tree, is one of the most common herbal remedies and the best herb for adults with ADD, according to "Prescription for Herbal Healing." It acts to improve circulation to the parts of the brain responsible for concentration and planning, areas which appear to be underactive in adults with ADD. It can also improve memory and mental acuity in adults with ADHD. You should not give gingko biloba to children and only use it under the supervision of your physician, especially if you are pregnant or have a bleeding disorder.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a sweet-smelling annual plant whose flowering parts are harvested for use as an herbal medicine. A tea made from chamomile has a calming effect that can be beneficial for the restlessness and hyperactivity experienced by those with ADD and ADHD. Chamomile can be very effective in soothing children with these disorders, who find it difficult to settle down to get to sleep. It also works to counteract allergies that can also be a factor in producing the stress and anxiety associated with ADD and ADHD. "Prescription for Herbal Healing" says using chamomile consecutively for three to four weeks is necessary before its benefits are fully realized.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm gets its name from the pleasant citrus smell the plant gives off when you rub its leaves. Lemon balm is a calming herb that helps relieve anxiety, stress and sleeplessness. Lemon balm appears to relax muscle tension in those with ADD, allowing them to get to sleep more easily. The University of Maryland Medical Center states lemon balm is a relatively safe herb with few side effects that you can give to children by adjusting the adult dose by one-third.
Brahmi
Brahmi, or Bacopa monniera, is a perennial creeping herb which grows near wetlands and marshes in tropical areas of India, the United States and Central America. Brahmi appears to improve attention span, decrease forgetfulness, improve performance and increase retention of newly learned information. It may also act to reduce stress and anxiety. Women on hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives or those who produce excess estrogen should not take brahmi, as it can cause a temporary hearing loss.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; December 2008
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing;" Phyllis A. Balch; 2002
- AltMD: Gingko Biloba
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lemon Blam; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- Herbs 2000: Brahmi; 2011
