Herbs and Vitamins for ADHD

For those that are interested in alternatives to prescription medication for ADHD, there are natural treatment options available. Herbs and vitamins can help reduce the effects of ADHD and create focus, mental clarity and overall emotional well-being in both children and adults.

The following herbs are safe for use in children with ADHD:

Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)

The active components of Lemon Balm, including Flavonoid and Phenolic Acids, help to relieve restlessness, nervousness, anxiety and mild mood changes. Studies have also shown that Lemon Balm supports mental performance, attention span, accuracy and memory.

Bacopa (Bacopa Monniera)

The Bacosides, Alkaloids, and Glycosides in Bacopa help support healthy cognitive functions such as focus, concentration, memory and mental endurance.

Lecithin

The Choline in Lecithin is a vital precursor to the production of neurotransmitters such as Dopamine and Acetylcholine, which are used to support concentration, alertness, and memory.

German Chamomile (Matricaria Recutita)

German Chamomile has historically been used to soothe the Central Nervous System, and can reduce nervous tension as well as emotional stress responses.

Combining these herbal therapies with a healthy lifestyle and a behavioral wellness plan can help reduce the following symptoms in children with ADHD:

• Restlessness and over-active behavior
• Lack of mental clarity or focus
• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mental fatigue
• Irritability and mood swings

For adults interested in natural support for ADHD, the following herbs are recommended:

American Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius L.)

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The Ginsenosides derived from American Ginseng have been shown to increase alertness, concentration and memory and improve mental performance.

Rhodiola Rosea (Rhodiola Rosea L.)

The Rosavin, Rosarin, and Salidrosides in Rhodiola Rosea root help to provide support during times of heightened mental and physical stress. Rhodiola has been shown to promote mental sharpness, emotional balance, and relaxation.

Choline: Choline is used in the production of neurotransmitters such as Dopamine and Acetylcholine. These brain chemicals help to maintain alertness, concentration and memory.

B-vitamins, Vitamin C, Zinc and Magnsium

These vitamins encourage basic nervous system functions such as neurotransmitter production and cell-to-cell communication, which support and maintain healthy cognitive function and calm the Central Nervous System.

Herbs and vitamins used in conjunction with a healthy diet, exercise, and coping skills for ADHD can reduce the negative effects of ADHD symptoms.

Author: Nan Little

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