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Herbal Remedies for ADD/ADHD
Modern science has now proven that ADHD treatment programs that include herbal
remedies,
boost concentration and memory. A recent study undertaken by the Sheba
Hospital in Israel has reported that herbal remedies can often improve
cognitive functioning in patients with ADHD.
Herbal remedies are often prescribed by holistic practitioners to treat mental
illness and hyperactivity along with including riboflavin, magnesium,
B-complex vitamins, and thiamine in the diet through foods or daily
multivitamins. Some herbs, such as 100% aloe vera juice, pumpkin seed extract,
ginkgo biloba, evening primrose oil (an omega-6 fatty acid),and mahonia grape,
can promote nutritional delivery to the brain and balance neurotransmitters.
These herbs may be beneficial in the treatment of ADD and ADHD.
Two Indian
herbs, GotuKola and Ashwaganda, have been shown to be effective for
concentration and release of anxiety. Chamomile, passionflower and skullcap
have also shown great promise. Generally, these herbs have dosage
recommendations on the supplement package, but in rare cases where doses are
not given, doses of ½ teaspoon into a well diluted tincture, three times a
day and mixed with fruit or vegetable juice is usually appropriate.
Other recommended herbal and homeopathic remedies include Hyoscyamus, which is
known to help alleviate over-excitability and restlessness. It also provides
relief from frenetic outbursts and tic-type involuntary twitching. Another one
is Verta Alb. This herb can help stabilize a person with ADHD. Arsen Iod is
often used for the hyperactive-impulsive type child. A fourth remedy,
Tuberculinum, is also touted as a treatment for the symptoms of ADHD.
The International Cod Liver Omega-3 Foundation recommends the use of a Cod
Liver Oil based (CLO3) as one of the alternatives to traditional prescription
medications, such as Ritalin, to treat mental illness and hyperactivity in
children. Omega-3 (also referred to as n-3 or w-3) is the name of a family of
polyunsaturated fatty acids. Oil-based fish and dietary supplements are the
richest and most generally available sources of omega-3. Some of these sources
include fish oil and cod liver oil. Krill, bread and fruit juices are also
effective.
The compounds referred to as omega-3s are Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA),
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), and Docusahexaenoic Acid (DHA). Omega-3s found in
plant and vegetable sources are not as effective as cod liver oil or other
fish oils. The best and most effective source is only found in fish such as
mackerel, salmon, fresh tuna, and fish oil, specifically cod liver oil.
Experts recommend a minimum daily intake of 450 mg of fish oil omega-3s in
order to fortify joint, brain and cardiovascular health, particularly in
children with ADD or ADHD. A research study published in 2002 concluded that
there is a significant benefit to using Omega-3 dietary supplements to treat
ADD/ADHD.
Unfortunately, the prescribing of multiple medications to treat ADD/ADHD has
created a “polypharmacy” culture in a drug obsessed society, where we first
turn to drugs to mask the symptoms rather than changing nutrition, lifestyle
or adding herbs to treat the cause. Your first and best single form of
treatment should be with natural remedies. If these do not appear effective
then talk to your doctor or psychiatrist to explore other options.
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