Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder that affects how a person behaves, thinks, and feels. The symptoms of ADHD can be very disruptive to daily life. Fortunately, there are natural remedies for ADHD that can help lessen the symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss 15 of the most effective natural remedies for ADHD.
What Is ADHD?
ADHD refers to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurobehavioral disorder that manifests as problems with inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. This condition is typically diagnosed in childhood, but it can also affect adults.
There is no single cause of ADHD. Rather, it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. This means that there is not necessarily anything that you can do to prevent it. There are three types of ADHD:
- Inattentive type
- Hyperactive/impulsive type
- Combined type (inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity)
Most people with ADHD have the combined type. Symptoms of inattention include:
- Daydreaming
- Getting easily distracted
- Forgetfulness
- Failure to complete tasks
So, all in all, it is important to seek professional help if you or your child is displaying any of the above symptoms. However, there are also some lifestyle changes and natural remedies that can help to improve symptoms of ADHD.
15 Natural Remedies For ADHD
There are many natural remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of ADHD. Some of these include:
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural source of energy. It helps to improve mental clarity and focus. This oil is also considered to be a healthy fat that can help to stabilize blood sugar levels. It is believed that coconut oil can help to improve the symptoms of ADHD by providing a steady source of energy. Coconut oil has a great history of being used as a natural remedy for many different health conditions.
For example, it is excellent for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It is also effective in treating digestive disorders such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. For ADHD, it works by improving mental clarity and focus while also providing a steadier source of energy.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has calming and relaxing properties. It can help to reduce hyperactivity and restlessness. This tea can also promote better sleep habits. It is a herb that is generally considered safe for children to consume. Chamomile is described as having a bitter, sweet taste.
But it is also available in capsules and tinctures. You can find chamomile tea bags at most grocery stores. Chamomile tea is caffeine-free. It can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is another calming and relaxing remedy for ADHD. This oil can be used in a diffuser or added to a bath. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to a cotton ball and place it near your child’s pillow.
According to studies, lavender oil is effective in treating anxiety and insomnia, which are common symptoms associated with ADHD. One study even found that lavender oil was as effective as the medication lorazepam in treating anxiety.
Organic Foods
Organic foods are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. This means that they are better for your overall health. Eating organic foods can also help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. There are numerous studies that have shown the benefits of organic foods for people with ADHD.
Organic meats, fruits, and vegetables are all excellent choices for people with ADHD. You can find organic foods at most grocery stores. If you’re looking for the best selection, check out your local farmers’ market. Organic foods are often more expensive than conventional foods, but they are worth the investment.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are found in yogurt and other fermented foods. These beneficial bacteria can help to improve gut health. Probiotics have also been shown to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. For example, probiotics can help to improve mood and reduce impulsivity. As it works to improve gut health, probiotics can also help to reduce inflammation.
This, in turn, can help to improve brain function and reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Probiotics are a safe and effective natural remedy for ADHD. To get the most benefit from probiotics, it is best to take them regularly.
Omega-three fatty acids
Omega-three fatty acids are found in fish oil and other sources. It has been shown to improve symptoms of ADHD. These acids are also good for heart health and brain development.
One study showed that children with ADHD who took omega-three fatty acids had fewer symptoms than those who did not. Another study found that omega-three fatty acids improved reading skills in children with ADHD. For example, the children were able to read more words per minute and had better comprehension.
More often, you can find these fatty acids in pill form. But, you can also get them by eating certain foods, like salmon or tuna. You can also find omega-three fatty acids in flaxseed oil, chia seeds, and hemp seeds. Adding these to your diet may help improve your symptoms of ADHD.
Exercise
Being physically active is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It’s also one of the best natural remedies for ADHD. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties. It is believed that endorphins may also help with focus and concentration.
There are numerous types of exercises you can do, so find something that you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine. You don’t have to join a gym or start running marathons, even simple activities like brisk walking or riding a bike can be beneficial. Just remember to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
Ginkgo biloba
It is a herb that is commonly taken in the form of a supplement. It is thought to improve blood circulation, which may help with ADHD symptoms. This herb contains a chemical called ginkgolides, which may help to improve focus and attentiveness.
One small study found that Ginkgo Biloba may be helpful in treating ADHD. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. As this herb may interact with other medications, be sure to speak to a doctor before taking it. So if you feel like your child’s ADHD symptoms are not being effectively managed, ask your doctor about Ginkgo Biloba.
Rosemary Oil
It is thought that rosemary can help improve mental clarity and focus. One study found that rosemary essential oil improved cognitive performance in a group of students.
The students who were exposed to the rosemary essential oil reported feeling more alert and having better concentration than those who were not exposed to the oil. Rosemary can be used in a diffuser or added to a bath. It is believed that the scent of rosemary can help to improve mental clarity and focus.
Peppermint
It is thought that the scent of peppermint can help to improve focus and concentration. Because it has a cooling and refreshing effect, it can also help to reduce mental fatigue. To use peppermint as a natural remedy for ADHD, simply inhale the essential oil or steep peppermint leaves in hot water to make tea.
You can try diffusing peppermint essential oil in your home or office, or you can apply a few drops to your wrists and inhale the scent throughout the day. It is thought to be most effective when used in combination with other essential oils, such as rosemary or lemon.
If you don’t like the taste of peppermint, you can also try using spearmint essential oil. Although it’s not as potent as peppermint, it has a similar refreshing effect that can help to improve focus and concentration.
St. John Wort
This type of natural remedy for ADHD has been used for centuries to help with anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Today, it is sometimes used to treat ADHD as well. Because people with ADHD may also have problems with sleep, this could be a helpful remedy for some.
It is available in supplement form and can be taken orally. St. John Wort may cause some side effects, so it is important to talk to a doctor before taking it. But this is one of the most popular and well-known natural remedies for ADHD.
Ginseng
Ginseng is an herbal supplement that has been used to treat ADHD for centuries. It is thought to increase focus and concentration, as well as improve overall brain function. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, many people with ADHD find ginseng to be helpful in managing their symptoms.
For instance, if someone takes ginseng and feels more alert, they may be able to better focus on tasks. Additionally, ginseng is generally considered safe when taken in moderation, making it a good option for those looking for natural remedies for ADHD.
If you’re interested in trying ginseng, be sure to speak with your doctor first, as it can interact with some medications. Additionally, ginseng should not be taken for more than three months at a time.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a form of mindfulness that can help to improve focus and concentration. This type of meditation can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
There are many different ways to meditate, but one simple way to get started is to focus on your breath. Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down, and simply focus on your breath moving in and out of your body. If your mind starts to wander, simply bring your focus back to your breath.
It is believed that mindfulness meditation can help to retrain the brain, and it has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD.
Biofeedback
This type of remedy for ADHD is still in the experimental stages, but there are some promising studies out there. Biofeedback is a type of therapy that uses machines to help you learn to control your body’s response to stress. One study found that kids who underwent biofeedback had lower levels of impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Because it’s still in the early stages, it’s hard to say how effective biofeedback will be for everyone with ADHD. But it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a natural remedy that doesn’t involve taking medication.
Yoga
Yoga is a great way to promote relaxation and mindfulness. It can also help to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. People who choose yoga as a natural remedy for ADHD often find that it helps to reduce stress and improve focus.
There are several types and poses that you can try, so it’s important to find a class or instructor that is right for you. Some common that you may want to try include:
- Warrior pose
- Tree pose
- Cat-cow pose
- Downward facing dog pose
- Child’s pose
These are just a few of the many yoga poses that can help to improve focus and concentration. If you’re new to yoga, it’s important to start slow and gradually increase the difficulty of the poses as you become more comfortable with them.
So all in all, natural remedies for ADHD are not only effective but can be fun too! Give some of these a try and see which ones work best for you. Remember, the most important thing is to find what works and stick with it.
When To Seek Professional Help?
Sometimes the symptoms of ADHD are so severe that medication and/or counseling are necessary. For instance, some common warning signs include:
- Falling behind in school
- Getting into trouble at home, school, or work
- Not being able to complete tasks
- Problems with friends or family
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
These symptoms can interfere with every aspect of life, making it difficult to function on a day-to-day basis. If you or your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help. Because this condition is not well understood, it’s important to find a qualified professional who can offer an accurate diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.
There are many different types of professionals who can help with ADHD, including psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and therapists. Once you’ve found someone you trust, they will work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include medication, behavioral therapy, and/or other types of counseling.
It’s important to remember that every person is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. With the help of a professional, you’ll be able to find the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, natural remedies for ADHD are considered to be more effective and safer than medication. These remedies are numerous and easily accessible, so there is no excuse not to try them out. Because in mild symptoms or even in severe cases, natural remedies for ADHD can make a big difference.
Therefore, you should not hesitate to give them a try if you or your child is suffering from ADHD. This condition is not easy to deal with, but fortunately, there are ways to ease the symptoms and improve the quality of life. With natural remedies for ADHD, you can finally get the relief you need and deserve.
For more tips and guidance, you can reach out to Therapy Mantra. The team of professional counselors is more than happy to help you in your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our services. You can also book an online therapy session or download our free Android or iOS app.