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What Are the Different Types of Herbs for ADD?

By Madeleine A.
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 12,893
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Different types of herbs for ADD include ginkgo biloba, green tea, and pine bark extract. Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a condition characterized by a limited ability to focus and pay attention. In addition, ADD is typically treated with medications that influence the brain's pathways, enabling those with ADD to focus more precisely. Although effective in managing ADD, medications can cause significant side effects. ADD needs to be evaluated to determine its severity before a treatment plan can be recommended.

Side effects from ADD medications include anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss. Sometimes, the side effects of these medications are so great that the patient gives up treatment. When this occurs, the healthcare provider can recommend alternative treatments. It is important to note that regardless of side effects, patients should never abruptly abandon treatment. Doing so can cause a worsening of symptoms such as poor focus,impulsiveness, anxiety, and even seizures.

Certain herbs for ADD can help quell symptoms without producing major side effects. Ginkgo biloba helps promote optimal brain functioning and may even improve memory. In addition, it may be beneficial for those with ADD because it can help promote better concentration and focus in certain patients. It may also promote better sleep, reduce anxiousness, and improve memory. Ginkgo biloba is available as a tincture or supplement form, and can be found at nutrition stores and some drug stores.

Other herbs for ADD include pine bark extract and green tea. Pine bark extract, an antioxidant, can help relieve symptoms of ADD in certain people. It may prove beneficial in the treatment of irritability and might promote better focus. In addition, pine bark is a rich source of vitamin C and can also be used as a tincture. Also, green tea can help children with ADD focus better. One of the components in green tea is caffeine, which can cause side effects such as nervousness, insomnia, palpitations, and shakiness.

Although herbs for ADD may prove just as effective as prescription medications in some people, they should not be taken unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Certain herbs for ADD and other alternative medicine supplements may interact with prescription medications, such as those that thin the blood. Some herbal remedies have anticoagulant properties that may intensify the effects of aspirin or prescription blood thinners and can cause bleeding gums, nosebleeds, blood in the urine, and abnormal bruising.

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Discussion Comments
By SteamLouis — On Apr 22, 2014

@literally45-- You've touched on a good point that's also highly controversial.

Some people do use coffee, tea and other caffeinated drinks for ADD. Although it is known that caffeine can help with concentration, all doctors do not recommend it for ADD. There is just no consensus about the issue.

Personally, I think that caffeine can be used for mild cases of ADD. I drink coffee, tea and caffeinated soda daily. They definitely help me concentrate. I don't think I could work as well without them. At the same time, I realize that using caffeine excessively is not a good idea. It does lead to dependency and it's probably not safe for children.

I think you should ask your doctor about this for the best advice because everyone is going to have a different opinion about it.

By literally45 — On Apr 22, 2014

What about coffee and tea? Can these be used for ADD?

By discographer — On Apr 21, 2014

Ginseng and ginkgo biloba are two of the best herbs for ADD and very easy to find. Both help improve concentration and ginseng also has added benefits of improving blood circulation.

But like with all herbs, there is an ideal dose for both of these. If too much is used, there can be side effects. I've noticed that if I have too much ginseng tea, I experience anxiety and become too energetic. So these herbs can actually backfire and worsen ADD symptoms temporarily if used excessively. I personally stick to the lowest dose possible and take a break from them for a few days every now and again. When used this way, they work quite well for improving focus and concentration.

People with health problems like high blood pressure or diabetes need to be extra careful about the potential side effects of these herbs, as well as their interactions with medications.

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