Last updated:

January 17, 2024

4

 min read

Herbal Treatment for ADHD Children

Explore herbal treatments for ADHD in children, including herbal teas, zinc, ginseng, pine bark extract, and fish oil, alongside practical support strategies, emphasizing consultation with a mental healthcare professional for informed decisions.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Disclaimer: Before starting any form of treatment, consult a mental healthcare professional. Herbal treatment cannot cure ADHD and you need to see a psychiatrist, RCI-registered clinical psychologist, clinical psychologist associate, or PsyD for a proper treatment plan and guidance.


Many young people around the world have ADHD, a long-lasting illness that can continue into adulthood. It causes problems like trouble paying attention, being hyperactive, and acting impulsively.


Kids suffering from ADHD might also grapple with low self-worth, problematic relationships, and subpar academic performance. As they age, these symptoms may sometimes diminish.

Although there is no cure for ADHD, medication such as herbal treatment can significantly reduce symptoms.


Sub types of ADHD in Children

Inattentive type ADHD: It was formerly referred to as ADD, displays signs of inattention but neither hyperactivity or impulsivity.


Hyperactive/ Impulsive type ADHD: This subgroup of ADHD is distinguished by impulsivity or hyperactivity rather than inattention.


Combined type ADHD: The symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This is the most frequent ADHD subtype.


Impact of ADHD on Children

Children with ADHD may struggle with low self-confidence, school anxiety, troubled relationships, and poor school performance. Some people, however, never totally outgrow their ADHD symptoms. However, they can use strategies that are helpful.


Talking to a Clinical Psychologist or Child Psychologist is recommended to better understand your child's problems and find a good treatment plan.



Herbal Treatment for Children

Herbal Teas

Studies show that consuming herbal teas can have an alleviating effect on the symptoms of ADHD. The caffeine in the tea is said to reduce fatigue and improve concentration and cognitive performance.

Zinc

According to certain studies,taking zinc supplements may help reduce the symptoms like hyperactivity and impulsivity,


Ginseng

Ginseng is one of the world's most popularly investigated and efficient tonics. Ginseng helps with the symptoms by boosting dopamine and norepinephrine levels due to the presence of ginsenosides.

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Pine Bark Extract

Additionally, studies on pine bark extract have showed promise in reducing symptoms of ADHD in kids. A 2006 study found that children who took daily tablets containing pine bark extract for four weeks had significantly reduced levels of hyperactivity.


Fish Oil and Omega 3’s and ADHD

Those that suffer from ADHD often utilise this vitamin. Why? Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help treat ADHD in children. Fish oil helps to increase levels of omega-3s, which are usually low in people with ADHD, and therefore improves brain performance. It also has few to no negative side effects.


Never forget to inform your child's paediatrician of any alternative treatments, dietary supplements, or pharmaceuticals. These factors may have a negative impact on your child and disrupt prescribed medication.


Other ways to support your child

Healthy routine

Make sure your child has access to daily exercise, gets enough sleep, and consumes a balanced diet that includes three full meals, a snack, and enough water each day. Your child will feel better and their symptoms of ADHD will be reduced due to these healthy habits.

Routines for homework and chores

Create a list of the tasks that require completion. Getting ready for bed, and the classroom so that your child can look it up anytime he or she is distracted. Help your child maintain a daily calendar to remain on top of all homework assignments.

Set a time and place for homework, and utilise a time limit to remind your child to check in with you every two to four minutes to see how their assignments are going. If your child needs them, take into account brain breaks, movement during tasks, or the usage of a suitable fidget.

Your support matters

Acknowledge that your child's concerns are due to developmental disorder. Although individuals with ADHD may not exhibit visible external symptoms, society must recognize it as a disability and treat it accordingly. Keep in mind that your child can't "snap out of it" or "just be relaxed and normal" whenever you start to feel angry or agitated.

It looks easy, but keep things in perspective and take each day as it comes. Recognise that as the parent, you set rules for acceptable behaviour in the house. Always show kindness and patience, but do not allow your child's actions, when they fail to finish a task, to intimidate or bully you.


Concluding words

We really hope that our information about herbal remedies and healthy eating for ADHD and brain health has been helpful to you. Using herbs and supplements to support mental health typically takes some trial and error to find the right combination.


Being curious and maintaining an open mind are essential for appreciating the process of improving your health and taking care of unwanted issues. Homeostasis is never static; rather, it is dynamic and ever-changing. Your life will be much easier if you accept this fact and enjoy the journey, and your health will get better even faster!

Parents can also support their child by establishing routines, creating a conducive environment for homework, and providing emotional support. ADHD is a developmental disorder, and understanding and patience are vital components of effective parenting.

In conclusion, while herbal treatments may offer some relief for ADHD symptoms, they should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan overseen by healthcare professionals. It's essential to stay informed, work closely with your child's healthcare team, and prioritize evidence-based interventions for the well-being of your child.

For personalized guidance and comprehensive care, consider consulting Rocket Health. Embrace evidence-based solutions and expert support to ensure the well-being of your child. Your journey to a healthier and happier life begins with informed choices and professional assistance.


References

Therapy for Childhood ADHD. (2016, August 28). WebMD.

https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-behavioral-treatment

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. (2019, June 25). Mayo Clinic.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889

Alice. (2023, November 21). Understanding ADHD & Self-Esteem and Gaining Confidence.

https://www.theminiadhdcoach.com/living-with-adhd/adhd-self-esteem

Attention-Deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. (n.d.). Johns Hopkins Medicine.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/adhdadd

Malík, M., & Tlustos, C. (2023). Nootropic herbs, shrubs, and trees as potential cognitive enhancers. Plants, 12(6), 1364.

https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12061364


Trebatická, J., Kopasová, S., Hradečná, Z., Činovský, K., Skodácek, I., Šuba, J., Muchová, J., Žitňanová, I., Waczulíková, I., Rohdewald, P., & Ďuračková, Z. (2006, May 13). Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol®. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-006-0538-3