Effective, natural treatments for ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 3-5% of all children. It is often misdiagnosed and treatment plans are not always effective.
The condition is frustrating for the child, the parent and the rest of the family. Also frustrated are teachers, doctors and other healthcare professionals. To achieve the best results, everyone in the child's environment needs to work together.
If your child has ADHD, he or she needs your help, guidance and understanding. I know from personal experience, as a psychotherapist & parent, how difficult it is to raise a child with ADHD. My goal here on this site is to help you, the parent or concerned individual, learn about the condition and understand the various treatment options.
The most common symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. But, your child might not show all of these behavioral problems. Some kids are primarily hyperactive. Others get sidetracked easily, become bored or daydream, when they should be learning.
Impulsive behaviors are sometimes difficult to identify. You, me, heck all of us act without thinking, sometimes. That's one reason that ADHD is difficult to diagnose. The behaviors that accompany the condition are present in everyone, from time to time.
But, when a child's impulsivity, hyperactivity or inability to concentrate affect performance at school or relationships with family and friends, then professional help is needed. That does not necessarily mean that sufferers require medication. Sometimes, doctors and parents too quickly turn to prescription medications, without considering all
of their options.
You need to remember that the stimulant drugs that are used to treat ADHD are not a "cure". In some cases, they help. In others, they create more problems. We tried the drugs, but even at the lowest dosage, my normally happy son came home from school in tears, every single day. Some kids simply cannot tolerate any stimulant, no matter how low the dosage.
A more holistic approach, treating the "whole" child, worked for us. Numerous studies have shown that medication alone is not the most effective treatment plan. It may be a quick and easy solution, but there are no "magic pills".
Many factors may play a role in your child's behavioral problems. Diet is often part of the problem. Too much sugar, artificial colors and preservatives increase irritability, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Good nutrition is of the utmost importance. Kids need to eat right and take a good multi-vitamin, as well as an omega-3 or fish oil supplement.
If your child is hyperactive in school, change your routine. Get up early in the morning. Go for a brisk walk or run before school. Get him involved in an organized sport, karate or other physical activity that will help him or her "burn-off" some of that restless energy.
And, try natural herbal remedies before turning to powerful prescription medication. It has always seemed illogical to me to give a child stimulants. But, there are many herbs and botanical extracts that are "soothing" and so helpful to children with ADHD. Here's a look at some of them.
Hyoscyamus
Known to reduce restlessness and over-excitability, this homeopathic remedy showed positive results in a controlled study conducted in 1997. In general, the plant extract reduces outbursts, fidgeting and hyperactive behaviors.
Tuberculinum
This homeopathic remedy is traditionally recommended for those who need constant stimulation or change, in other words, for those who get "bored" easily. It is also beneficial for the relief of irritability, destructive behaviors and feelings of discontent.
Arsen iod
This extract promotes balance, reduces temperamental outbursts or temper tantrums. It also reduces frustration that can occur when learning new skills.
Verta alb
Used to soothe the nerves, verta alb is often recommended by homeopaths for hyperactive children.
But, ADHD is too serious a condition to just go out and mix a brew of herbs with no training in herbology. To be effective, these solutions must be properly prepared according to the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia and you should only purchase natural remedies from a reputable manufacturer.
We have had a great deal of success with the products from Native Remedies. They are carefully prepared in registered facilities, are all natural and organic and approved by the FDA.
Native Remedies also back their products with a one year, unconditional money back guarantee. The prices are reasonable and the quality is unquestionable.
If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or you have noticed behavioral and learning problems that typically accompany the condition, visit Native Remedies, to learn more about the condition and read hopeful testimonials written by other parents. Your efforts will please both you and your child.
