ADD or ADHD are the acronyms for the same disorder, namely, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also called Attention Deficit Disorder. However, what’s of graver concern is about 4% to 6% of the US population is afflicted with this disorder.
Understanding ADD or ADHD
You’d have certainly encountered persons, both children and adults, who displayed poor sustained attention to tasks or were impulsive or were excessively active and restless. They all suffered from ADHD, which is characterized by distractibility, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Although, these symptoms are found in varying degrees in most, this condition becomes a medical disorder, if they’re excessive, long-term and pervasive. Furthermore, this condition should cause some real problems in at least 2 areas of a person’s life, like school, home, work or social settings. However, ADHD is not limited to children and usually persists throughout a person's lifetime. About one-half to two-thirds of children suffering from ADHD will continue with this disorder as adults.
Symptoms of ADD or ADHD
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders gives some common symptoms of ADHD:
a. Lack of close attention to details or careless mistakes.
b. Difficulty in sustaining attention to tasks.
c. Lack of attentiveness when spoken to directly.
d. Failure in following instructions carefully and completely.
e. Losing or forgetting important things.
f. Restlessness, often accompanied by fidgeting with hands or feet or squirming.
g. Excessive activities, like running or climbing.
h. Excessive talking.
i. Blurting out answer before hearing the whole question.
j. Difficulty in waiting for turn.
Of course, the exact nature and severity of ADHD symptoms will vary from person to person.
Causes of ADD or ADHD
If you think poor parenting, family problems, poor teachers or schools, too much TV, food allergies, or excess sugar is the culprit for this disorder, you’re wrong. Although, the exact cause is still unknown, a theory, pins the blame on a diet of refined sugar and food additives that causes children to become hyperactive and inattentive. Though there’s some truth in it, scientists at the National Institutes of Health conclude this may apply to only about 5% of either very young children or children with food allergies. Evidence of cause being genetic and biological in nature is gaining ground.
Treatment of ADD or ADHD
Although over-the-counter medications are available, they’ve some awful side effects. However, there are some excellent natural remedies that are perfectly safe and effective, without any side effects. Let’s see what they are:
a. Ginkgo biloba: It’s effective in restoring the functioning of the circulatory system and improving blood flow to the brain. Its active ingredients include flavone glycosides, bioflavins, sitosterol, lactones and anthocyanin.
b. Skullcap (Scuttellaria laterifolia): This is a relaxing nerve tonic and anti-spasmodic, which reduces excitability and relieves depression. Its active ingredients are flavonoids, tannins, bitter, volatile oil and minerals.
c. German chamomile (Matricaria recutita): This has traditionally been used tocalm and soothe nervous tension. Its active ingredients include volatile oil, flavonoids, valerianic acid, coumarins, tannins, salicylates and cyanogenic glycosides.
d. Gotu cola (Centella asiatica): It’s used to revitalize the brain and nervous system, increase attention span and concentration, and combat ageing.
e. Green Oats (Avina sativa): Also called Hawer, it’s used to treat nervous exhaustion and as a general nerve tonic. It’s active ingredients are saponins, flavonoids, minerals, alkaloids, steroidal compounds, Vitamins B1, B2, D, E, carotene and wheat protein.
f. Umbabazane (Urtica Urens): This circulatory stimulant is effective in lowering blood sugar levels. Its active ingredients are histamine, formic acid, acetylcholine, glucoquinones, minerals, Vitamins A, B and C and tannins.
g. Massage therapy: According to a study published in 1998, massage therapy has proven especially effective for children. A daily massage makes them happier, less fidgety and hyperactive, and more focused on their tasks.
Natural remedies have proven quite effective in treating ADD or ADHD. But, it’s important to consult your physician before adopting any of them.
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