Natural Remedies for Children with ADHD: A Parent's Guide

As a parent of a child with ADHD, you may be exploring various treatment options to help manage the symptoms and improve your child's focus and behaviour. While medication is a common approach, many parents are also looking into natural remedies for ADHD as an alternative treatment or a complementary option. In this guide, we’ll explore some ADHD natural remedies that may help support your child's well-being and enhance their ability to concentrate.

1. Dietary Adjustments: Fuel for Focus

The foods your child eats can have a significant impact on their ability to focus and manage ADHD symptoms. A well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and lean proteins is essential for brain health. Here are a few dietary adjustments to consider:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, omega-3s are known to improve cognitive function and reduce ADHD symptoms. Studies have shown that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids can have a positive effect on focus and impulsivity.
• Avoiding Sugar and Artificial Additives: Some studies suggest that food additives, like artificial colours and preservatives, may worsen ADHD symptoms. Reducing sugar intake and avoiding processed foods can be helpful for some children.

2. Herbal Remedies: Nature's Calming Power

Several herbs have been traditionally used to help calm the mind and improve focus, making them beneficial for children with ADHD. Always consult your child's healthcare provider before introducing new herbs.

• Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil): Renowned for its adaptogenic properties, this herb helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity, promoting calmness and focus. The latest research into herbal treatments for ADHD shows very promising results .
• Ginkgo Biloba: Believed to enhance circulation and cognitive function, ginkgo biloba can improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity in children with ADHD.
• Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola): This herb is known to support brain health by improving memory, concentration, and mental performance. It’s especially helpful for children needing better focus.
• Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi): A staple in Ayurvedic medicine, brahmi is well-regarded for its ability to boost memory and cognitive function, making it an effective aid for children with ADHD. In fact, a recent study in children aged 6–12 years found that taking Brahmi daily for 6 months significantly reduced ADHD symptoms, such as restlessness, poor self-control, inattention, and impulsivity in 85% of the children!

Homeopathic Remedies for ADHD

Homeopathic remedies can be a gentle and effective option for managing ADHD symptoms. Remedies such as Hyoscyamus, Chamomilla and Phasphorus, in homeopathic dilution are often used to address hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty focusing. These remedies are tailored to each child's specific symptoms, providing a holistic approach to emotional and mental balance. A combination of homeopathic and herbal remedies is often recommended for best results in the natural treatment for ADHD in children.

3. Essential Oils: Aromatherapy for Focus

Aromatherapy can be an effective natural ADHD treatment. Certain essential oils are known to have calming and focus-enhancing properties. Some essential oils to try include:

• Lavender: Known for its calming and stress-reducing effects, lavender can help your child relax and improve sleep quality.

• Peppermint: Studies have shown that peppermint essential oil can help improve concentration and cognitive performance. A few drops in a diffuser or applied to the temples may support focus.

• Vetiver: This grounding oil can be especially helpful for children with ADHD, as it helps to calm the nervous system and improve concentration.

4. Mindfulness and Meditation: Training the Mind

Mindfulness practices can be a beneficial ADHD natural remedy. Teaching your child mindfulness techniques, such as breathing exercises or simple meditation, can help them develop better self-regulation, reduce impulsivity, and improve focus.

• Deep Breathing: Encouraging your child to practice deep breathing exercises when they feel overwhelmed can help them manage stress and anxiety.
• Guided Meditation: Short, guided meditation sessions can help children focus and calm their minds, making it easier to concentrate on tasks and regulate emotions.

5. Physical Activity: Channeling Energy

Regular physical activity is an important part of managing ADHD symptoms. Exercise can help reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and increase the production of neurotransmitters that are essential for cognitive function.

• Yoga: Yoga combines movement, mindfulness, and breathwork, which can be beneficial for children with ADHD. It helps them develop focus, improve flexibility, and regulate emotions.
• Outdoor Activities: Activities like hiking, cycling, and playing sports can help children burn off excess energy and improve their concentration.
• Martial arts like Judo and Karate are excellent ways to improve concentration and self-discipline and reduce impulsive behaviour. 

6. Sleep Hygiene: Restful Nights for Active Minds

Quality sleep is crucial for children with ADHD, as lack of rest can exacerbate symptoms such as irritability, inattention, and hyperactivity. Establishing a healthy sleep routine can help your child feel more rested and focused during the day.

• Set a Consistent Bedtime: Encourage your child to go to bed at the same time each night to promote a regular sleep pattern.
• Limit Screen Time: Reducing exposure to screens before bed can improve the quality of your child’s sleep, as the blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin.

7. Supplementation: Nutrients for the Brain

Certain supplements may help support brain health and improve ADHD symptoms. Some supplements to consider include:

• Magnesium: Low magnesium levels are often linked to symptoms of ADHD. Supplementing with magnesium may help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.

• Zinc: Zinc plays a role in neurotransmitter function and has been shown to help improve attention and behaviour in children with ADHD.

• Iron: Iron deficiency has been linked to ADHD symptoms, so ensuring your child gets enough iron through their diet or supplementation may help with focus and behaviour regulation.
• Supplementing with Omega 3 has been shown to benefit brain health.

8. A Natural Supplement Option: The Brain Combo

For a more targeted approach to supporting your child’s focus and calm, Feelgood Health’s Brain Combo is an excellent choice. This combination of natural remedies includes BrightSpark, MindSoothe Jr, and Focus & Calm, each designed to support focus, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

• BrightSpark is known to reduce hyperactivity and difficult behaviour, thereby making it easier to concentrate and sit still, which also reducing impulsive behaviour
• MindSoothe Jr helps to calm the mind and reduce anxiety and aggression, promoting emotional stability and balanced behaviour.
• Focus & Calm supports mental clarity and brain health, helping your child concentrate on tasks more easily.

These products are formulated with natural ingredients, making them a safe and effective option for children who need additional support in managing ADHD symptoms.

Final Thoughts: A Holistic Approach to ADHD

Natural ADHD treatment options can be a valuable tool in managing symptoms, but they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Every child is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. It’s important to take a holistic approach by combining natural remedies with other treatments, such as behavioural therapy and professional guidance.

 With patience, consistency, and a well-rounded approach, you can help your child thrive and manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.

Explore these natural ADHD remedies and see what works best for your child’s unique needs - remember, it’s all about finding the balance that helps them succeed.