Natural Remedies for ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, more commonly known by its short form ADHD, is one of the most misdiagnosed conditions which can affect a child. It is also one of the most misunderstood disorders, and is more prevalent than one would commonly be lead to believe. If diagnosed in time and with due consideration to the various factors which come into play, like social, psychological and educational, ADHD can be easily dealt with, allowing the affected child to lead a comparatively normal life.
While diagnosis is the first step, treatment is the next in dealing with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome. If you are one of those parents who want their children to be free from artificial chemicals found in medicines, here are a few home remedies which you must try for helping both you as well as your child deal with this condition.
Since hyperactivity is a part and parcel of the various manifestations of this syndrome, one should avoid foods and food products that further aggravate this symptom. For example, aerated cold drinks, which contain phosphates, cause increased rates, levels and durations hyperactivity. Phosphate in these drinks displaces the calcium in the muscles. Phosphorus is also contained in meat products and in fats. Therefore, a vegetarian diet low in fat should be preferred. Also, yellow, red and blue food dies should be avoided at all costs as these too, tend to cause increased bouts of hyperactivity.
Sugar should be avoided as far as possible due to its detrimental effects on brain activity. Instead, wean your child away from sugar till he or she is comfortable with consuming foods without it. Use honey or jaggery instead, but avoid even these whenever possible.
Herbal remedies include plant parts like Gotu Kola, German chamomile, Ginkgo Biloba, Hawthorn and valerian. Ginkgo Biloba is a trusted herb that has been used for centuries to increase blood flow to the brain. The other herbs also help in improving memory, calming the nervous system and keeping hyperactivity under check. However, the dosage, form and type of herb should be used only after a thorough consultation with a certified herbal medicine practitioner. Bacopa Monniera, or Brahmi, is known to stimulate learning, while at the same time it protects the brain from damage from free radicals. St John's Wort reduces the depression that is often a manifestation of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder.
Lavender in the form of essential oil is used to alleviate stress and induce a feeling of calmness, which can help to stave off the bouts of hyperactivity which are a part and parcel of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Another relaxing and rejuvenating essential oil which offers palliative care is orange essential oil.
Ashwagandha reduces anxiety and stress and is considered one of the most important herbs when it comes to dealing with ADHD, often getting better results than other alternative medication for ADHD. Stay away as far as possible from processed foods with a lot of preservatives and chemical additives. Monosodium Glutamate, yeast etc are other foods one should avoid at all costs.