A child diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can experience a variety of symptoms, among them restlessness, distraction, excessive talking and abundance of energy. Just as disturbing, however, are the side effects which these children experience after being prescribed common medications given to children who have ADHD: Moodiness, loss of appetite, dizziness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. With this in mind, many parents look for natural remedies to help their children struggling with the symptoms of ADHD. The good news is that there are quite a few.

One herb that can help children who have ADHD is Ginkgo Biloba. This herb helps blood flow to the brain and increases neurotransmitter levels, which helps the brain to focus. While Ginkgo is usually not recommended for children, it has been shown to be helpful in alleviating the symptoms in children who have ADHD. Consult with a Homeopath before giving your child Ginkgo. They can suggest an appropriate dose for the child.

Another herbal remedy that helps children who have ADHD is Centella Asiatica, more commonly marketed as Gotu Kola. This natural ingredient reduces anxiety levels and improves brain function.

Scuttelaria lateriflora, which is also referred to by the name American Skullcap, is another one of the herbs useful to children with ADHD. Be careful not to confuse it with Scutellaria baicalensis, its Chinese cousin. A mild relaxant that affects the nervous and musculoskeletal systems, it can be given to children in the form of a tea using a small dose (anywhere from 11 to 43 kg, depending on the child’s age and weight).

Avena sativa, also called Green Oats, is a safe herbal remedy for children with ADHD. This herb calms and relaxes the nervous system.

Another herbal remedy is German Chamomile. While regular Chamomile tea has been known for ages to be a relaxant, German Chamomile (Matrica recutita) has been used successfully with children who have ADHD. German Chamomile relaxes the nerves and relieves tension.

One other herbal remedy used to alleviate nervous excitement is Lavender essential oil. Lavender has a calming effect on children and also helps prevent insomnia. It can be found in scented soaps, scented candles, and as a scent available through lit plug-ins for the wall.

Valerian Root will likewise calm excitable children and create sleepiness. It is not advised, however, to give Valerian Root to a child under the age of 3. Use Lavender instead.

If you want an herbal remedy that will also provide a boost of fiber, consider Dwarf Nettle (Urtica Urens). This herbal remedy is a natural supplement for acetylcholine, which is essential to help maintain concentration and memory.

Always consult with a doctor and a Homeopath before administering any herbal remedies to your ADHD child. Take the time to study the herbal remedies and talk with patients who have taken them.

By using herbal remedies for children with ADHD, the dangerous and life-threatening side effects of prescription ADHD medications can be avoided and a child can have the symptoms of ADHD alleviated in a natural way.