Children around the world seem to be getting diagnosed more and more with hyperactivity and impulsivity. It’s estimated that 6.4 million children have been diagnosed with ADHD in the U.S. With that diagnosis, often comes medication, but is there perhaps a natural option you can try first?
Some of the symptoms of ADHD and anxiety can be also seen in perfectly healthy children. Issues like acting out, Difficulty focusing, aggression, withdrawn attitude or academic struggles can be attributed to changes in the environment, diet or even lifestyle changes (like changing schools or a divorce in the family).
While parents should always, always, always consult their pediatrician when these and other symptoms arise, they can also help manage these with lifestyle changes like exercise, better eating habits, sufficient sleep, or even less screen time.
In addition, there are also safe and effective natural options to help with hyperactivity. It’s important to note, before giving any herbs or supplements to your child, be sure to discuss potential risks and benefits with your child’s doctor.
Here are the herbal ideas to consider:
1. Magnesium
Magnesium is incredibly important to overall health. It regulates sleep and can improve overall mood, it’s no wonder many ADHD children are found to be deficient in this mineral. Low levels of magnesium can cause irritability, short attention spans, and confusion. A magnesium supplement or a magnesium rich diet can be helpful for hyperactive children.
2. Ginkgo Biloba
This herb is known for it’s memory boosting capabilities and improving the ability to focus. Ginkgo biloba can also lower anxiety and help with depression. Children with hyperactivity or ADHD might find taking gingko biloba helps clear “brain fog” and focus on projects or school work more easily.
3. Ginseng
Another herb you’ve probably heard of is ginseng. It increases memory, concentration, and alertness, all of which can help someone diagnosed with ADHD. Gingsenosides are the key active ingredient that make ginseng such a beneficial natural remedy.
4. Gotu Kola
Also know as penny wort, this herb helps with depression while improving memory. It’s also helpful for alleviating the restlessness that’s common in ADHD and hyperactive kids. Gotu Kola can help combat short attention spans, anxiety, and depression as well.
5. Chamomile
Another herbal remedy commonly taken in tea form is chamomile. It’s a natural relaxant and is a gentle option. It can also aid in better sleep if taken before bed.
6. Valerian Root
This can be used as an effective sedative or sleep aid, but is not habit forming. Children need upwards of ten hours of sleep each night, and adequate sleep is helpful in lessoning the symptoms of ADHD. Valerian root has been used to treat insomnia and genuinely leads to better quality sleep. You can find this root in a powder form or as a tea.
7. Catnip
Although catnip may cause you pet to behave widely, it’s another relaxant and sleep aid when it comes to hyperactivity. It’s safe for children and can lesson anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia. Steep catnip in a tea alone or combine it with chamomile and lime blossom for a relaxing blend.
8. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is both antiviral and antibacterial. Just like the herbs mentioned above, it can be used to calm nerves. This can help to lessen fidgeting and other symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity.
9. Avena (wild oats)
Oats have a number of uses, and treating hyperactivity is one of them. Hyperactivity is a form of stress, and avena sativa can help to reduce stress and anxiety, lessoning behavioral symptoms of AHDS or hyperactivity.
by Kingdom Branding