ADHD Herbal Remedies: Helping ADHD With Plant-Based Science

By HelloLife

Research into the use of herbal remedies for treatment of ADHD is in its infancy. However, initial studies of some herbs are showing promise. Different herbs have different effects on different people, so you may have to try several types and combinations to see what works best for you. Always keep in mind that almost all ADHD research is done on children, so results and symptoms may be different for adults. It is also important to be sure of the quality of the herbs you are using. The quality of popular herbal remedies tends to be highly variable. With care and research, you should be able to help your ADHD with plant-based science.

Herbs as sedatives

These herbs are generally used for a calming effect or as a sleep aid. In Europe, the herbs are used to treat agitation. They probably won't improve the behavior of children with ADHD during the day. Some common herbs used are:

Hops
Valerian
Chamomile
Lemon balm

Herbs that enhance brain activity

Gingko has been used to treat dementia because the herb is supposed to increase blood flow to the brain. Now it is being used for ADHD. One study found that combining American ginseng with Ginkgo improved ADHD in some children. 36 children, age 3-17, took 200 mg of ginseng extract and 50 mg of ginkgo extract two times per day for four weeks. They took the medication on an empty stomach. After two weeks, 31 percent of the children were less anxious and shy, and 67 percent noticed improvement in ADHD symptoms. After four weeks, 44 percent felt less anxious and shy, and 74 percent noticed improvement in symptoms and felt less hyperactive. Two subjects experienced problems with the medication.

Antioxidant herbs

Pine bark extract was tested on 61 European children for four weeks. Each child received either 1 mg of extract or a placebo. The children taking pine bark experienced improvements in hand-eye coordination, hyperactivity, attention span and concentration. Few side effects were reported and the symptoms relapsed within one month of stopping the dosing.

Herbs as stimulants

Stimulant herbs tend to be milder and have different effects than stimulant medications. While caffeine has been found to be less effective for treating ADHD than stimulant medications, it can be used in conjunction with medication to improve symptoms. Caffeine is already used by most adults as a tool to improve focus and attention. Caffeine can be found in plants products such as: