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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.
Development of Adult ADHD
Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) doesn't show up abruptly. It is a condition that starts showing symptoms at a younger age. But, it unfortunately may remain undiagnosed.
If your focus and concentration problems are recent, they are mostly a result of stress, anxiety or some other psychological issues. Of course, consult a medical professional for a thorough examination in order to rule out possible physical illnesses as well.
Symptoms of Adult ADHD
Hyperactivity and impulsivity, or inattention or both (hyperactivity-impulsivity and inattention) are the 'classic' ADHD symptoms.
However, you do not have to exhibit all of these symptoms to be diagnosed with ADHD. Adult ADHD is characterised by decreased hyperactivity along with increased inattention (lack of concentration) and impulsivity.
In adults, these symptoms can trigger a host of additional symptoms, including:
- Relationship concerns
- Financial difficulties (forgetting to pay bills, reckless spending)
- Lack of stability - example as always changing house social anxiety created by its interruption or overtalking mood swings
- Adult ADHD is frequently associated with other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression and sleep problems
Breaking the Misconceptions of Adult ADHD
We are all in need of a little more help with focusing and staying on a task. However, for those suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it is about more than just trouble concentrating. People with ADHD have excessive energy levels, face difficulty in focusing, and are prone to impulsivity, among other symptoms. Just a few years earlier, children and adults with ADHD received the same treatment. However, now there are different approaches for both children and adults. Many individuals continue to hold onto this common myth, however, we now know that it is false!
Factors that affect Adult ADHD
ADHD has been rapidly increasing in every age group. But, especially in children, over the previous few decades. Genetics, the microbiome, nutrition, lifestyle, and other factors all have an impact on persons with ADHD. Also, there are numerous factors that might contribute to ADHD, a strictly pharmacological strategy might not always be a highly successful method. Today, we'll look at a selection of supplements and natural herbs that could make a great addition to any customised ADHD programme.
Herbs
Herbs that help with clarity of thought, focus, and attention span can be put into a few groups. Adaptogens are herbs that help to balance the complete body system and improve resilience to emotional, physical, and mental stressors. They are classified as either gently stimulating or soothing adaptogens. Nervines are herbs that help to support and relax the nervous system. Nootropics are herbal supplements that improve cognitive function, such as memory, focus and attention span. As you can see, there's a lot of overlap because many herbs belong to all three families.
Nutrition
A few supplements have been used to help individuals with ADHD. It helps for who are more prone to nutrient deficiencies. Magnesium, iron, and zinc are all used for various purposes related to the physiology underlying ADHD. But, they are all safe nutritional supplements that are worth testing or discussing with your doctor.
Herbal Treatment for ADHD
Herbal Tea
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
Some studies suggest taking zinc supplements can prove beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of ADHD, such as a drop in hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Ginseng
Ginseng is one of the world's most popularly investigated and efficient tonics. Ginseng, because of the presence of ginsenosides, is useful in alleviating some ADD-related symptoms by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
Pine Bark Extract
Pine bark extract has also shown results in helping children with ADHD symptoms. Kids who received daily pine bark extract supplements for a period of four weeks had considerably lower levels of hyperactivity, according to a 2006 study.
Fish Oil and Omega 3’s and ADHD
This is a frequently used supplement among ADHD sufferers. Why? According to research, omega-3 fatty acids are useful in treating ADHD in youngsters. Fish oil, which has few/mild side effects, helps to raise levels of omega-3s, which are typically deficient in individuals with ADHD, and so improves brain functioning.
Concluding words
We hope you've found this information about herbal remedies and nutrition for brain health and ADHD useful. When it involves mental health, using herbs and supplements usually requires some trial and error to discover the perfect fit. It is critical to keep an open mind and be curious in order to appreciate the process of enhancing your health and addressing undesired concerns. Homeostasis is dynamic, ever-changing, and never static. Accepting this fact and enjoying the ride can make your life a lot easier, and your health outcomes will improve even more!
How to Get Help with ADHD?
Are you feeling unsure on how to get help with ADHD? If taking medication is not the preferred way of treatment, you could try investing in therapy. It is a great idea to work with a professional who knows about adult ADHD. Rocket Health can be a great option for you. Our online platform can connect you to mental health professionals that help you in your journey with ADHD. Book your session today.
Resources
1. Thapar, A., Cooper, M., Jefferies, R., & Stergiakouli, E. (2011, September 7). What causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? Archives of Disease in Childhood; BMJ. https://doi.org/10.1136/archdischild-2011-300482
2. , K. W. (2018, May 14). Lifestyle and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. https://doi.org/10.5283/mnhd.10
3. Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010, January 19). Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress—Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals; Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph3010188
4. A. (2020, March 20). Herbal Nervines by Magnificent Rector Dr. William A. Harrison, ND, PhD. UniLogos.
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5. Malík, M., & Tlustos, C. (2023, March 18). Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers. Plants; Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12061364
6. Newmark, S. (2021, July 28). Vitamin Power! 8 Best Supplements for ADHD. ADDitude.
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7. Derbyshire, E. (2017, January 1). Do Omega-3/6 Fatty Acids Have a Therapeutic Role in Children and Young People with ADHD? Journal of Lipids; Hindawi Publishing Corporation. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/6285218
8. Cronkleton, E. (2018, September 17). What Is Pycnogenol and Why Do People Use It? Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/health/pycnogenol#:~:text=Benefits
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9. Arnold, L. E., DiSilvestro, R. A., Bozzolo, D., Bozzolo, H., Crowl, L., Fernandez, S., Ramadan, Y., Thompson, S., Mo, X., Abdel-Rasoul, M., & Joseph, E. (2011, February 1). Zinc for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Pilot Trial Alone and Combined with Amphetamine. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology; Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. https://doi.org/10.1089/cap.2010.0073
10. Vitamins and Supplements for ADHD. (2008, October 9). WebMD.
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11. Wee, J. J. (2011). Biological Activities of Ginseng and Its Application to Human Health. Herbal Medicine - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92776/
12. Ong, W. Y., Farooqui, T., Koh, H. L., Farooqui, A. A., & Ling, E. A. (2015, January 1). Protective effects of ginseng on neurological disorders. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience; Frontiers Media. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2015.00129
13. Liu, K., Liang, X., & Kuang, W. (2011, April 1). Tea consumption maybe an effective active treatment for adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Medical Hypotheses; Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2010.08.049
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