ADHD - ADD Remedies & Treatments
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) also known as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) is defined as a syndrome that is usually characterized by a short attention span, inattentiveness, poor concentration, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination of these things. Symptoms appear to begin in early childhood and can persist into adulthood. While ADHD is often genetic, the root cause is not fully known or understood.
Whatever the specific cause, it seems to appear early in life as the brain is developing. Studies have suggested that the brains of children diagnosed with ADHD are significantly different from those of other children. Neurotransmitters such as adrenalin, dopamine, and seratonin seem to be handled differently in the brains of ADHD children.
Many children are misdiagnosed with ADHD every year. This is why every child suspected of having ADD or ADHD should be carefully evaluated to determine exactly what is contributing to the suspected behaviors. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association divides the symptoms of ADD and ADHD into three categories: Inattentiveness, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity. Some of the symptoms in each category include:
Symptoms of Inattentiveness:
* Failure to give close attention to details
* Careless mistakes in schoolwork
* Difficulty sustaining attention
* Appears not to be listening when spoken to directly
* Difficulty organizing tasks
* Easily distracted and often forgetful
Symptoms of Hyperactivity:
* Fidgets with feet and hands or squirms in seat
* Runs around or climbs on things inappropriately
* Difficulty playing quietly
* Excessive talking
Symptoms of Impulsivity:
* Interrupts others
* Blurts out answers before questions are completed
ADHD is a frustrating problem for parents as well as the sufferer, and unfortunately many parents are very quick to jump on the pharmaceutical bandwagon in an attempt to "cure" their child. Positive effects of these drugs include a calming of the central nervous system, while the negatives include possible addiction. And some ADHD drugs have been linked to sudden death in children with heart problems. This is why it is so important to get all the facts before implementing any type of treatment for ADD or ADHD.
Here are a few of the most popular herbs used in herbal therapies:
Echinacea: This has been claimed to boost the body's immune system to help fight off infections. It has been widely used to treat the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections
Goldenseal: This is typically used as an antibiotic. It is often used in conjunction with Echinacea to ward off the common cold or the flu.
Rose Hips: This is a good source of vitamin C.
Chamomile: This is often used for calming overly stressed nerves, relieving stomach pain, preventing ulcers, and fighting infection.
Garlic: This is known to be a potent natural antibiotic, with natural anti-viral properties. It aids in the reduction of cholesterol and prevents the formation of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
Slippery Elm Bark: This is helpful for soothing sore throats, coughs, and stomach disorders.
Ginseng: This is used to help stimulate the immune system. It aids protecting of the liver from toxic things. And it has widely been used to increase stamina.
Dandelion: This is helpful in relieving premenstrual bloating.
Feverfew: This has been used to aid in the prevention of migraine headaches.
Raspberry Leaf: This is popular in the treatment of morning sickness and uterine infection. It has also been known to aid in the prevention of miscarriage.
Spearmint & Peppermint: These are typically used in the treatment of indigestion.
Comfrey: This is often used in the treatment of cuts or bruises.
Senna: This is a very powerful natural laxative.
Uva Ursi: This is used as a natural diuretic. It is also known for its urinary antiseptic effects.
Ginger: This has been used to help prevent motion sickness. Also used in the prevention of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
Licorice: A digestive aid. Also good for soothing sore throats and treating ulcers.
Remember, before starting any kind of herbal therapy, learn as much as possible about any contraindications, or any allergies that you may have. And you may want to consult with a reputable herbalist to help with your individual needs.
Please continue browsing this site to discover a new world of simple, natural remedies and cures.