The Best Alternative Medicines ADHD Choices

ADHD is a medical condition that is usually recognized and diagnosed in children before the age of 7 and can continue into adulthood. There are several medications available to reduce the symptoms of the typical ADHD behaviors – inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. However, these medications do not come without side effects, some of which may be just as undesirable as the symptoms they are trying to reduce. The good thing is there are alternative medicines ADHD options that individuals with ADHD may find suitable, either alongside tradition medication or to eventually replace it.

One alternative medicine is Pycnogenol. Many ADHD patients who take Pycnogenol had seen good results without taking any stimulant medication. Along with Ginkgo Bilboa and Blue Green Algae, Pycnogenol passes through brain blood barrier. It can be bought in health stores and its primary source is French pine bark. In a double blind placebo study of 57 children that lasted for a month, those children taking the Pycnogenol daily found their inattention scores reduced by 10% and hyperactivity reduced by 15%.

Blue Green Algae is another alternative medicine that ADHD patients could try. It has been shown to improve focus, the ability to follow instructions and increased concentration, while lowering anxiety, decreasing depression and limiting behavioral withdrawal.

Ginkgo Bilboa is a supplement that is gaining in popularity for adults with inattentive type ADHD, however there are no studies on the effectiveness for children. There are some possible side effects and if you have a history certain medical conditions like high blood pressure or hemorrhagic strokes then its not recommended you take it. St. John's Wort, Ginseng and Valerian may also be helpful to people with ADHD symptoms, but always consult a professional for advice on dosages.

Another alternative medicine that could be helpful in the treatment of ADHD is supplementing with amino acids. The brain has a number of neurotransmitters that control our behavior and mood. Amino acids provide the building blocks for these neurotransmitters. A deficiency in amino acids can lead to deficient neurotransmitters, which can result in erratic behaviors and mood swings. Supplementing with amino acids helps restore the balance to the neurotransmitters.

Brain wave biofeedback is a technique that has shown some potential for people suffering from hyperactivity disorder. Using this type of treatment can help the individual gain control over normally involuntary behavior such as blood pressure or heart rate. When treating ADHD (normally adult patients), it can lead to an increase of brain waves associated with being attentive and also decrease brain waves that are associated with daydreaming. This treatment can be effective for some and not others.

There are other alternative ways to treat ADHD; like eating a nutritious diet and exercise. Eliminating foods that can trigger ADHD symptoms like sweet foods, foods containing additives, food flavoring and food colors can be beneficial to ADHD individuals.

Exercise is important too as it can help reduce excess energy and during exercise endorphins are produced that boost our mood and can reduce depression.

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There are many options to choose from when it comes to alternative medicines ADHD treatments, but they may not be suitable for everyone. If you want to try any of these treatments for yourself or your child first consult your doctor and never stop taking medication without medical approval.