ADHD Herbal Remedies

Once a parent finds out there is a problem with a child, the first impulse is "what can I do to fix it?" Parents whos children have been diagnosed with ADHD are no different. As stimulant based prescriptions have become more commonplace...so has an increased awareness to the immediate risk and long term reprocussions that these medications pose. In light of this new knowledge, there has been a push by many parents to find herbal, organic, and natural alternatives.

According to the D.E.A., manfacturing of stimulant (amphetimine) based drugs has increased 500% in the last 16 years, and over half the the prescriptions written for these drugs are by pediatricians. This means there has been a massive increase by doctors to medicate children with stimulants to control symptoms of ADHD and depression. This statistic is alarming, and has many wondering if doctors and parents should first be trying homeopathic remedies for ADHD rather than jumping first to medications.

The two most popular drugs to treat ADHD symptoms are Ritalin and Adderall. Both of these stimulate bloodflow to the frontal lobe of the brain. The frontal lobe helps regulate emotion and impulse control. So, increasing stimulation to this part of the brain actually helps to increase focus and the ability to pay attention.

However, there are several herbs that do much the same, and can be used as part of an effective ADHD treatment plan.

One herb for brain functioning is Brahmi. It has been long used to increase cognitive abilities. Brahmi is used to increase learning speed, and according to the latest research, may protect the brain from free radicals.

Ginkgo is actually famous for just this type of mental stimulation. It is used to increase bloodflow to the brain, as well as increase certain chemical neurotransmitters, which can help the brain focus. It is rumored that the positive effects of Ginkgo Biloba are actually permanent, thus this MAY be a potential cure for ADHD symptoms.

Another potential good ADHD natural remedy is Centella Asiatica, A.K.A. Gotu Kola. It is a herb that is used to reduce stress and anxiety levels, and therefore increasing ones ability to remember and think. Some research has shown it to increase brain blood flow, and improve circulation in general.

Ginseng is another popular herb, and it may have some ADHD treating abilities as well. By reducing stress and fatigue, and normalizing body functions...it MAY have some ability to treat ADHD symptoms.

These are the most commonly used herbs for treating ADHD symptoms. Often times they are used as ingredients in herbal remedies that are professionally formulated to include a variety of herbs that will have a synergistic effect in treating symptoms.

One note of warning however...since these herbs create a similar brain stimulation as prescription drugs, the two types of meds should not be taken together. Be absolutly sure to consult a doctor before taking any herb or medication to treat any problem.

When it comes to internal medication and ADHD, medicine still doesn't have a cure. however, a natural treatment of ADHD can be completely viable and effective, and generally will avoid the harsh side effects of synthetic drugs.

Here are a list of other ADHD Related articles that you may find useful:

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