ADHD Herbal Remedies – Skullcap

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Did you know that our body can naturally heal itself and overcome most diseases? As long as we maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat nutritious food, and get lots of exercise, we can recover from any condition without using medication. Sometimes it’s just a matter of finding out which combination of natural remedies will work for us. In the case of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a healthy lifestyle and diet combined with herbal remedies can manage the disorder more effectively than medication. Skullcap is one ADHD herbal remedy that can help reduce hyperactivity, inattention, and the other symptoms of the condition.

There are two known varieties of skullcap: American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis). Although both varieties are called “skullcap,” they are in fact very different herbs used to treat different diseases. Chinese skullcap can be found in Central Asia and Russia, and is used by Chinese medicine to treat headaches, allergic reactions, and inflammation. American skullcap grows in North America and cold climates, and is the variety used to treat ADHD and a number of neurological conditions. Skullcap was first discovered by the first Europeans in America, who discovered that it can prevent rabies from animal bites. Several hundred years later, scientists observed that skullcap’s ability to treat rabies naturally is due to its calming effects on the central nervous system. Research on the herb also shows that it can increase the brain’s blood supply and inhibit muscle spasms.

While no clinical trial has been designed to evaluate the effects of skullcap on ADHD, many alternative health practitioners and homeopaths recommend using the herb because of its tranquilizing effects. There are many ways to use skullcap as a natural remedy for ADHD. One way is to buy commercially prepared capsules of skullcap extract. The herb can also be used as a tea; simply put two teaspoons of dry skullcap leaves into a tea pot and drink three times a day. Skullcap can be served as a tincture (a highly concentrated herbal extract), as well. Herbalists recommend purchasing a skullcap tincture and combining 5 ml of skullcap with 10 drops of lemon balm. This formula should be taken orally in drops. Finally, some herbal preparations for ADHD like LTO3 have skullcap among the ingredients.

Although skullcap and other ADHD natural remedies are generally safe, it is always wise to consult a homeopath or holistic health care practitioner before taking any herbs or giving them to your child. Allergic reactions and unwanted side effects are rare, but they have been known to occur.