One of the most popular alternative therapies for ADHD is use of herbal medicines or phytotherapy. Since the beginning of time, herbal medicine has been used in healing. Not only have plants provided food, but they have also been used in treatment for different kinds of disorders. A person who treats individuals with plants is called an herbalist. Herbalists, like other complementary therapists, seek to treat people rather than just diseases. As a complementary or alternative therapy, herbal therapy includes a host of treatments that are not part of Western medicine or scientific or evidence-based medicine.

According to herbalists, the following plants are helpful:

- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) helps increase cerebral blood flow and is reputed to restore memory and increase concentration and focus. Ginkgo brings greater oxygenation to the brain and improves brain flow metabolism.

- Brahmi (Bacopa monniera) is an Ayurvedic herb with a long history as a brain enhancer. It supposedly protects the brain from free radical damage while stimulating improved learning and cognitive function.

- Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosis) helps modulate stress reactions by stimulating brain activity and causing a release of body energy.

- Goto kola (Centella asiatica, Hydrocotyle asiatica) are herbs that reduce corticosterone blood levels during stress and are helpful for nervous disorders and vascular problems of the brain. This herb should not be confused with the caffeine containing Kola nut.

- Green oats (Avena sativa) are fresh green seeds that are a mild antispasmodic and nourishing nerve tonic.

- St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an anti-inflammatory sedative used for depression, fear, insomnia, anxiety or feelings of worthlessness.

- Kava kava (Piper methisticum) is a sedative, hypnotic, and antispasmodic used to relieve tension headaches, insomnia, and ADHD. Unlike most sedatives, users claim they can still perform cognitive functions.

- Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a sedative and cerebral vasodilator used for insomnia, restless sleep, agitation, nervous exhaustion, and nervous system weakness after prolonged illness.

- Cat's claw aids the immune system and decreases gut permeability to certain peptides that can trigger allergic responses in the brain.

- Valerian root calms and relaxes nervous tension.

- Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) has a calming effect especially on babies and small children.

- Echinacea stimulates properties that protect against illnesses that could disrupt intestinal function.

- Aloe vera reduces toxins that affect the intestines and the brain.

People must never self-medicate with herbs; combining them requires a certain degree of knowledge and skill. The advice of a trained and experienced herbalist is essential for those who seek complementary strategies.

Bibliography:

Cooper, Paul, and Katherine Bilton. 1999. ADHD: Research, practice and opinion. London: Whurr Publishers.

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