Herbal Remedies for ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD
Symptoms and Characteristics
This condition is marked by learning disabilities, frequent forgetfulness, impaired judgment, excessive talking/interrupting, trouble concentrating, shortened attention span, and organization problems.

What Causes ADHD?

Research shows the common factor in all forms of ADD and ADHD to be a coordination failure in the reticular activating system of the brain. This area of the brain helps coordinate external stimulus. A brain chemical, norepinephrine, carries information between different regions of the brain which allows certain areas to be activated while others are inhibited, allowing one to focus on selected external information, while excluding others.In the case of ADHD this neural coordination is impaired, causing competitive stimulation from multiple external and internal sources -too much visual stimulation, too much sound stimulation, too many internal feelings and emotions, etc. When the limited neural network is overly taxed in this regard, it becomes unable to "tune in" or focus on some stimulation, while "tuning out," or "turning down" (attenuating) other stimulation. The results can be irritation, aggression and anxiety.Sugar Consumption blunts the brain's ability to respond to norepinephrine, thus impairing brain coordination.Allergies Up to 90% of all children with these conditions are allergic to red, yellow, and blue dyes found in food products. Other common food allergens include, cow's milk, peanuts, citrus, and tomatoes.Family HistoryOxygen Deprivation at BirthLead PoisoningDietary DeficienciesSmoking During PregnancyWhat Treatments Are Available?Conventional Approach Conventional treatment most often includes the use of psycho stimulant or antidepressant drugs. Over time, however these drugs often become ineffective and cause a sort of rebound effect where frustration and anger return. Excessive use of stimulant drugs can cause lethargy and depression.Alternative ApproachFortunately there are natural alternatives that have shown to be very effective in treating this condition. which can often balance the brain chemistry naturally without the side effects of medications.

Herbs that are used to treat ADHD include:Ginkgo Biloba, Scuttelaria (also known as Skullcap), German Chamomile, Gotu Kola, Avena Sativa (Oatstraw), Rooibos, Lemon Balm, Valerian, Lobelia, and Hawthorn.