Natural ADHD Medication Alternatives
There are many supplements and natural remedies that claim to treat ADHD. It's important to note that these treatments aren't controlled by the FDA, and may interact with other medications or cause side effects.
Pycnogenol is a plant-based extract, has shown promise to ease ADHD symptoms in certain studies. It is believed to enhance the function of the brain and reduce restlessness.
Nootropics
Many people who are diagnosed with ADHD have discovered that holistic approaches, such as talking therapy and lifestyle changes can ease their symptoms. Others, however, find that stimulant medication can be a viable and effective treatment option. There are many herbal and supplement medicines that can help those who wish to treat ADHD naturally.
Nootropics (pronounced n -oh-troh-p Ks are natural compounds that have been shown to enhance cognitive functions like focus, memory and concentration. They can be used in lieu of or in conjunction with medications prescribed by a physician. Nootropics are not stimulants similar to prescription drugs such as Adderall and Ritalin. They are also generally considered to be safer.
There is growing evidence that certain herbal supplements and nutritional supplements can help treat ADHD. Some herbal treatments have been proven to boost concentration, focus and memory, while other have been found to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. A variety of studies have also revealed that certain minerals and vitamins can help to reduce ADHD symptoms, for example by boosting serotonin and noradrenaline levels in the brain.
Ginkgo biloba has been shown to improve attention and memory in ADHD patients. A recent study revealed that ginkgo biloba had an effect on the reuptake of three important monoamines, which may help with ADHD symptoms. Pycnogenol another plant has been shown to help improve concentration and mental performance for people suffering from ADHD. The plant extract contains polyphenols that have been proven to enhance cognitive function and increase blood flow to the brain.
Chinese herbal treatments for ADHD have also been proven to be effective. In a 2-week trial, children treated with methylphenidate, Yizhi (a combination of 10 herbal extracts that are designed to alter Yin/Yang function in the liver), or the combined treatment experienced significant improvement in comparison to those given methylphenidate only.
Some herbs, like bacopa monnieri, ginseng, and saffron have been shown to improve ADHD symptoms. However, other herbal treatments are not well studied. Additionally, it is important to be aware that certain herbal medicines have potentially harmful adverse effects. For this reason, it is recommended to consult a doctor prior to using any herbal or natural remedies for ADHD.
Herbal Medicines
A variety of herbs are recognized for their health benefits, and some research has shown that they can aid in treating symptoms of ADHD. Some supplements and vitamins have been shown to help treat ADHD. One of these is St. John's wort, that has antidepressant properties and may reduce the reuptake of brain chemicals of serotonin and norepinephrine.
Studies have shown that certain herbal remedies, such as ginseng, ginkgo biloba and bacopa monnieri can enhance cognitive function and decrease hyperactivity in children suffering from ADHD. Other herbs such as Passionflower have a calming affect that can reduce anxiety and improve sleep. These herbs can be used together with other natural treatments such as sleep, exercise, and diet to create an all-encompassing treatment for ADHD.
Many botanicals are being utilized as adjunctive treatments in the management of ADHD However, more studies are needed to prove their effectiveness. The botanicals that are being studied include Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), bacopa monnieri, saffron, ginkgo biloba and pycnogenol. These botanicals may support neurocognitive function by increasing blood circulation to the brain, acting like nootropics, or by improving memory.
Pycnogenol, a plant-derived supplement is proven in some studies to enhance the attention span and decrease hyperactivity. It is a promising alternative to methylphenidate in the treatment of ADHD.
These alternative methods should never be used in place of traditional medication or behavioral therapy. It's important to speak with your doctor prior to attempting any new supplements or herbs. Certain of these natural remedies could interact with medications and cause serious adverse side effects. In some instances, they may be dangerous. For people with a diagnosis of ADHD the best approach is typically a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Behavioral treatments are effective in tackling the disorder and can be combined with natural and holistic treatments. To ensure that holistic treatments are safe and effective, it's essential to talk to your doctor about them. They will also be able to provide suggestions on dosage and safety of natural and holistic treatments.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are now an increasingly popular alternative to prescription ADHD medication. Aromatherapy can help relax the brain, improve moods, and improve concentration. The concentrated extracts of roots, leaves and flowers, as well as seeds are available. To create a soothing smell they are diluted before being applied to the skin.
Lavender oil, which is extracted from the lavender flower has been proven to decrease anxiety in stressed people. This can lead to a more relaxed state of mind, which is essential for those suffering from ADHD who are often irritable and have trouble sleeping. Lavender can also improve your focus.
Orange essential oil, made from the rinds of sweet oranges has been shown to help people to relax in stressful situations. It is believed to help promote relaxation, and may even alleviate the symptoms associated with ADHD. However, there is not enough evidence to back this claim.
Sandalwood oil is extracted from the wood and roots of the East Indian sandalwood or Santalum album tree. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce stress and anxiety. It has also been proven to increase mental clarity and reduce the effects of ADHD in children.
It isn't yet clear how effective vetiver oils for ADHD is, however, it has been proven to have anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that can aid in treating infections. It is a great addition to any treatment plan that includes traditional medication and therapy.
Some people with ADHD can get relief from their ADHD symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments. These include yoga, exercise, and diet. These practices can lead to peace and calm and help reduce restlessness and insomnia, which are associated with ADHD.
It is always a good to seek the advice of a physician prior to trying any new natural remedy or supplement. They can make sure that the treatment is safe, and also that it doesn't interfere with other treatments. A licensed therapist can assist people find additional ways to manage symptoms by talking to them via the internet or in person.
Lifestyle Changes
If you or your children have ADHD, a combination therapy, natural remedies, and medication could be the best option. It's important to remember that natural treatments and lifestyle changes can't solve ADHD, but they can help alleviate symptoms. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or other alternative therapies.
adhd otc medication can help improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity in people with ADHD. Choose unprocessed, fresh foods that are low in sugar and fat. Make sure to include lots of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources. You might also think about an "elimination diet" which is a limited, restricted diet that excludes certain food groups. Then gradually introduces those foods while closely monitoring the effects on symptoms.
Being active enough can increase focus and reduce the chance of depression in adults with ADHD. Try to do at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. Regular exercise can improve mood and sleep patterns. Meditation and other relaxation techniques can help improve concentration. They can also reduce stress levels, which are often linked to ADHD symptoms.
Certain herbal supplements have been proven to help improve ADHD symptoms, such as bacopa monnieri (known as Brahmi), Ginkgo biloba, and Pycnogenol. These supplements are not supported by large studies. It is best to consult with your doctor prior to taking these supplements.
Certain minerals and vitamins specifically those that affect memory or concentration can also aid in managing ADHD. Magnesium, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C are vital for the creation of neurotransmitters within the brain. These nutrients are low in people with ADHD, according to several studies.
Biofeedback and neurofeedback are other natural treatments for ADHD that can help people control their emotions and reactions. This is when a professional uses equipment to record brainwaves of a person and then guiding them on how to alter their reactions. Adults and children with ADHD can benefit from other methods of relaxation such as mindfulness, yoga massage, and mindfulness. In the natural world, spending time in nature has a positive impact on symptoms, since it can boost concentration and reduce anxiety.