Many people are turning to herbal remedies for autism. Most prescriptions medications have a long list of side effects that can adversely affect any one who consumes these medications on a regular basis. Herbal remedies for autism can be a safer alternative in some cases.

Herbal Remedies for Autism- Valerian Root

Valerian is a perennial flowering plant that has pink or white flowers and a sweet smell. Valerian has been used for centuries for various medical ailments including liver problems, nervousness, insomnia, nausea, epilepsy, and digestive problems. It has sedative properties similar to Valium or Xanax, without the addictive properties associated with those medications.

Valerian is beneficial to those with autism because it can help reduce anxiety, aggression, and aid in sleeping. The first couple of times it is taken, it may cause shakiness and excitability. These effects normally go away after one or two uses. Valerian root can be purchased in some pharmacies and in health stores in pill or liquid form.

Herbal Remedies for Autism-Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain by the pineal gland. It has been used as an herbal remedy for autism to help regulate the bodies sleep cycles. If your body is not producing the right amount of melatonin, taking a melatonin supplement can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep during the night.

According to Andrew Zimmerman, MD, of the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, studies have shown that as many as 70% of children with autism suffer from sleep problems. Children with autism often have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. A small dose of melatonin about 30 minutes before bedtime has helped regulate the sleep cycles of many children with autism.

The Vanderbilt Sleep Disorders Center in Nashville, TN has been doing studies on the effects of melatonin on the sleep patterns of children with autism. According to Beth Malow, MD, the director of the Vanderbilt Sleep Disorders Center, “so far, 11 kids have completed the first, four-month phase of the study. After 16 weeks of supplementation, the average time it took for them to fall asleep dropped from 38 minutes to 22 minutes.”

Melatonin can cause some side effects while you are taking the supplement. These include drowsiness, stomach problems, headaches, vivid dreams, a lower body temperature, and morning grogginess. It can be purchased at pharmacies, health stores, and online in chewable tablets, pills, and liquid form.

Herbal Remedies for Autism-Safety

Before starting any herbal remedy for autism, you should consult your physician. There is always the chance of having an allergic reaction or some other adverse effect from any supplement. Your physician can discuss the pros and cons of the supplement and provide you with the information you so that you can make an informed decision. Everyone is different and an herbal remedy may not affect you the same way that it affects other people. Follow the dosing instructions on the bottle or the dosage your physician recommends. If you have any problems consult your physician immediately just to be safe.

Sources:

Kennedy Krieger Institute

Vanderbilt Sleep Disorder Center

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep by Charlene Laino, WebMD Health News