Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or attention deficit disorder (ADD) with hyperactivity, is the newest name given to a group of disorders of certain mechanisms in the central nervous system.  With the long list of names this disorder has been given over the years, it can be confusing as to exactly what the criteria are for a diagnosis or ADHD or ADD.  In the fourth edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) the American Psychiatric Association describes three different categories of ADHD – ADHD inattentive, ADHD hyperactive—impulsive, and a third category that is a combination of the two.  #

This disorder causes a variety of learning and behavioral problems, often making it difficult not only for the affected individual, but the entire family.  Although the ADD/ADHD child is often labeled as having a learning disability, the child usually is of average or above—average intelligence and is also highly creative. 

Although primarily thought of as a childhood disorder, ADD/ADHD can be found in adults as well.  Experts estimate that as many as 8 million adults may be affected, but 80 percent of them do not realize it, and medical experts continue to debate whether children can expect to outgrow the symptoms.  According to Russell Barkley, Ph.D, a professor of psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina, ADHD is a more complex disorder in adults.  It manifests itself not so much as problems with the ability to pay attention or impulse control, but a problem of self—regulation. Without this self—control, an adult's ability to do tasks is impaired, because not only must the takes be done, but they have to be scheduled, organized, and placed in proper perspective.  The condition can lead to marital conflicts, substance abuse, and financial problems.  Infidelity is common because ADHD adults easily become bored with things –including spouses. 

Factors that have been linked to the development of ADD/ADHD include heredity, anxiety,  allergies, smoking at birth, environmental stress or pollutants, artificial food additives, injury, infection, lead poisoning, and prenatal trauma. Recent research suggests that watching too much television, with its fast—paced visual images, may permanently rewire the developing brain and cause ADHD—like symptoms,.  This is especially true in the first two or three years of life. 

In recent years, more emphasis has been placed on the role of diet in ADD/ADHD.  Many people with these conditions react to certain preservatives, dyes, and salicylates in foods.  These items can throw off the balance in the chemistry of the brain, often producing undesirable changes in behavior.  A low—protein diet may be a contributing factor.  Though the topic has been hotly debated for decades, studies have definitively shown that food additives do play a major role in hyperactivity. 

There is no single test to determine if a person has ADHD.  A specialist makes the diagnosis by comparing a person's behavior pattern against a set of criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association.  These criteria are as follows:  

1. The person has either six inattention symptoms or six hyperactivity and impulsive symptoms. #

Symptoms of inattention include:
:
Does not pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
Has trouble keeping attention activities.
Does not seem to listen when spoken to.
Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish tasks.
Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
Avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
Loses things necessary to do take or activities.
Is easily distracted.
Is forgetful in daily activities.

Symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsiveness include:

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in his or her seat.
Leaves his or her seat at times when remaining seated is necessary.
Feels restless or as a child, inappropriately runs about or climbs excessively.
Has difficulty taking part in leisure activities or quiet play.
Is “on the go” or acts as if driven.
Talks excessively.
Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
Has difficulty awaiting his or her turn.
Interrupts conversations or intrudes on other's activities.

2. Symptoms continue for at least six months and are more frequent and severe than normal.

3. Symptoms cause significant damage to social, academic, or work function.

4.Some damage to function occurs in at least two settings,, such as home, work, or school.

5. Some damaging symptoms occur before age seven.

6. The symptoms are not due to another disorder.

The ADD child may be harder to diagnose than the ADHD child because the hyperactivity is more obvious than the inattentiveness.  However, the procrastination, difficulty in concentrating, and inability to start or finish projects that is characteristic of the disorder can have damaging effects that can last through adulthood.  ADHD produces hyperactive, restless, impatient, and impulsive behavior.

Despite this, children with ADHD can have the ability to pay attention and complete assignments, often spending hours doing things that interest them.  Adults with ADHD seem to constantly be going and getting things done, but they often grow impatient easily and have a tendency to lose their tempers quickly. The combined form of ADD /ADHD can be the most debilitating.  Children with this type of the disorder often have low self—esteem,, are impatient, do not follow rules or act responsibly, are often clumsy, think that they are always right, do not want to accept change, and do not adapt well.

What may merely be creativity or a high energy level can be misdiagnosed as ADD or ADHD.  A diagnosis of ADD / ADHD should be made by a team of specialists who are experts in the disorder, and it is wise to get a second opinion if your child is diagnosed as having ADD or ADHD.  Be careful about jump in to medications.  While medication are certainly helpful, a study released in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) discussed safety concerns and the rising number of two- to four-year-olds children who are now on medications.

A better approach would be to consider nutritional, dietary measures and herbal remedies. Due to the many potentially harmful side effects of medication available for ADD / ADHD sufferers, a grown number of patients and health professional are turning to all or a combination fo the following as a way to reduce, and even possibly eliminate the symptoms of ADD / ADHD:  Alteration of diet, vitamin and mineral supplementation, herbal remedies, counseling, counseling, and the love and support of family, teachers and friends.  Many believe that medicating the problem is merely masking the symptoms without getting to the root of the problem.  Also the medication are dangers, have tremendous side effects.

Parents of children with ADD or ADHD often have a very difficult time dealing with the behavioral problems of their children.  These parents deserve a lot of credit.  It is important to remember, though, that the children deserve a lot of credit, too.  When things seen as though they ar getting out of control, it can be helpful to remember that a child with ADD / ADHD is dealing with a physiological disability.  Although they desire to please and want to be good, their minds can go in and out of overload without their control.  Because of this, they often feel confused and ashamed, and they can eventually develop low self—esteem. When problems arise, it is important to explain to them what they did wrong, and why it was wrong, in a calm, one-on-one fashion whenever possible.  These children need a great deal of love, support, and encouragement from everyone around them – but most of all, from their parents.

Traditional used Herbs and method of use for ADD/ADHD.  #

Catnip -Catnip is an aromatic plant that contains antioxidants and volatile compounds like nepetalactone, thymol, and pinene that may have medicinal benefits. Catnip may help relax the body before bed and promote rest. Its calming properties come from its nepetalactone and nepetalactone acid compounds.

Chamomile: Caution: Do not use chamomile an ongoing basis.  Avoid chamomile completely if you are allergic to ragweed. – Chamomile has been valued as a digestive relaxant and has been used to treat various gastrointestinal disturbances including flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, anorexia, motion sickness, nausea, and vomiting. Chamomile has also been used to treat colic, croup, and fevers in children.

Ginkgo biloba – The most helpful components of ginkgo are believed to be flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant qualities, and terpenoids, which help improve circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the “stickiness” of platelets.

Gotu Kola – Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has been used to treat many conditions for thousands of years in India, China, and Indonesia. It was used to heal wounds, improve mental clarity, and treat skin conditions such as leprosy and psoriasis.

Kava kava – In addition to its ceremonial uses, kava is best known for its relaxing qualities. Kava is said to elevate mood, well being, and contentment, and produce a feeling of relaxation. Several studies have found that kava may be useful in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and related nervous disorders.

Lemon balm – Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a member of the mint family, is considered a calming herb. It was used as far back as the Middle Ages to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, and ease pain and discomfort from indigestion (including gas and bloating, as well as colic).

Licorice root – Licorice root is promoted as a dietary supplement for conditions such as digestive problems, menopausal symptoms, cough, and bacterial and viral infections. Licorice gargles or lozenges have been used to try to prevent or reduce the sore throat that sometimes occurs after surgery.

Lobelia: Caution: Do not use Lobelia an ongoing basis. – Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), also called Indian tobacco, has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. Historically, Native Americans smoked lobelia as a treatment for asthma.

Mullein oil – Calms inflammation. Its flowers and leaves contain mucilage, which coats mucous membranes (the moist linings inside of your respiratory tract) with a film, reducing inflammation. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, salves and oils that contain mullein can also help relieve pain and irritation in skin wounds.

Oats – Studies show that oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. These include weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and a reduced risk of heart disease. Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. They're a gluten-free whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Passionflower – Passionflower is promoted as a dietary supplement for anxiety and sleep problems, as well as for pain, heart rhythm problems, menopausal symptoms, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is applied to the skin for burns and to treat hemorrhoids.

Peppermint – Peppermint is promoted for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), other digestive problems, the common cold, sinus infections, headaches, and other conditions. Peppermint oil is promoted for topical use (applied to the skin) for problems like headache, muscle aches, joint pain, and itching.

Skullcap – It has been used for more than 200 years as a mild relaxant and as a therapy for anxiety, nervous tension, and convulsions. Studies show American skullcap has significant antioxidant effects, and may help protect against neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, anxiety, and depression.

St. John's wort – St. John's wort has antibacterial properties and may also help fight inflammation. Applied topically (to the skin), it may relieve symptoms associated with minor wounds and skin irritation. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia.

Thyme – Thyme has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties, which is why it has long been used to help heal cuts, bruises, and scrapes. 5 Products that contain thyme can be applied topically to help speed along the healing process, and consuming thyme helps reduce inflammation in the body

Valerian root extract – Valerian root's medical usage dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. Early on, people treated migraine, tiredness, stomach cramps, and insomnia with valerian. Currently, people primarily take valerian to help address insomnia, anxiety, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, depression, and headaches.

Wood betony – Wood betony was used in European folk herbalism as a remedy for respiratory tract inflammation, heartburn, urinary tract inflammation, varicose veins, intestinal worm infestations, and failure to thrive.

—References— A Modern Herbal – https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/comindx.html

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—References— “Healing Herbal Teas” A Complete Guide to Making Delicious, Healthful Beverages.  By – Brigitte Mars, A.H.G. ISBN – 13: 978-59120-110-6 and ISBN – 10: 1-59120-110-1 Copyright 2006

—References— Henriette's Herbal Home – https://www.henriettes-herb.com/faqs/index.html

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—Reference— Herbs & Natural Supplements An evidence-base guide Volume 2; By Lesley Braun and Marc Cohen.

—Reference— Indian Spring Herbal Encyclopedia by Natalie Awanata Lapahie

—References— Medicine Net.com http://www.medterms.com

—References— Medical Herbalism The Science and practice of herbal medicine by David Hoffman, FNIMH, AHG, Copyright 2003, ISBN – 0-89281-749-6 

—References— “Nutritional Herbology” by – Mark Pedersen, Copyright 2008, ISBN – 10: 1-885653-07-7; ISBN – 13: 978-1-885653-07-9

—References— Planetary Herbology by – Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Copyright 1988, ISBN – 0-941524-27-2

—References— “Prescription for Nutrition Healing” by – Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, Copyright 2006, ISBN: 1-58333-236-7.

—References— Principles and Practices of Phytochemistry

—References— The Book of Herbal Wisdom  

—References— The Encyclopedia of Herbs – A Comprehensive Reference to Herbs of Flavor and Fragrance -By Arthur O. Tucker and Thomas Debaggio.

—References— Encyclopedia of Medicine By Andrew Chevallier FNIMH

—References— The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety

—References— The Healing Herbs – The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature's Medicines” by – Michael Castleman; Copyright 1991; ISBN: 0-87857-934-6; Page:  72 – 74

—References— “The Ultimate Healing System – The Illustrated Guide to Muscle Testing & Nutrition” by – Donald Lepore, N.D. Copyright 1985, ISBN: 0-94717-11560-7.

—References— WebMD http://www.webmd.com/default.htm

—References— Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia.com http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

Note: Information and statements about the products on this Book and/or PDF file, have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease.  You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication.  If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

Generated on December 10, 2008
Updated on December 10, 2008
Updated on March 23,2023