Thursday, August 19, 2010

Herbal Remedies for 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 History
Oxygen Deprivation at Birth
Lead Poisoning
Dietary Deficiencies
Smoking During Pregnancy
What 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 Approach
Fortunately 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.
~ Considerations ~
Avoid Sugar: Research has shown that children with ADD and ADHD may not digest sugars properly. Sugar consumption has been linked to aggressive, restless behavior.
Avoid Soft Drinks: Both sugar-free and sweetened contain phosphates which displaces calcium/magnesium levels, causing exaggerated muscle activity.
Get Plenty of Sunlight: Seasonal Affective Disorder, SAD, is sometimes misdiagnosed as ADD or ADHD. Occurring mostly in northern latitudes during the winter months, SAD produces ADD-like symptoms. Consider exposure to full-spectrum lighting if unable to spend time outdoors each day.
Consider Using Emotional Freedom Techniques: This method has had extremely promising results with ADHD!
*Note from Editor: If you are in need of a professionally prepared formula, alot of people have great results with one called Focus, which combines Ginkgo Biloba, Scuttellaria Laterifolia (also known as Skullcap), German Chamomile, Gotu Kola, Avina Sativa Urtica Urens, and Rooibos to make an all natural ADHD formula that is a 100% safe, non-addictive alternative treatment for ADHD, without the risks and side effects of prescription psychiatric drugs.
Many children and adults alike are finding great relief from ADHD with this combination of herbs.
Get more info on Focus for ADHD

More Articles
ADHD Natural Remedies Finding the Best Herbs for Hyperactivity
When ADHD Assessment Tests Say Your Child Needs Special Attention Evaluating the Need for Separate ADHD Schools and Knowing Your Child's Legal Rights
Diagnosing Learning Disabilities Is Your Child Exhibiting ADHD Characteristics?
ADHD and Diet Is There a Link Between Sugar and Hyperactivity, and Is There Really an Effective Diet for ADHD?
Recognizing the Risks and Side Effects of Adderall and the Symptoms of Adderall Withdrawal
Natural Remedies for ADHD and ADD An Alternative to Prescribing Ritalin for Children
Diagnosing ADHD in Adults Recognizing Adult ADHD Symptoms and Evaluating Options for Treatment

No comments:

Post a Comment