Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is also known as ADHD and is a medical condition in which the affected individual is not able to focus and concentrate on a specific task or purpose. This can affect the individual's ability to be productive, and may also adversely affect social relationships and self-esteem. Three types of ADHD are usually seen: Primarily hyperactive type is rarely seen; primarily inattentive type is seen more in girls and in adults of both sexes; and the most common type is the combined inattentive and hyperactive type. Genetics is considered to be the primary cause for ADHD although environmental factors also contribute to its occurrence. This condition results from an imbalance of neurotransmitters in some parts of the brain, which may be underdeveloped in some people affected with ADHD.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for ADHD is aimed at strengthening the central nervous system, especially the brain and normalizing and regulating the function of the neurotransmitters in the brain. Treatment is also given according to the specific type of ADHD seen in the affected individual. Ayurvedic herbal medicines which act on the nerve cells as well as the brain are used in high doses for prolonged periods. In addition, medicines which act on the blood tissue and which improve the circulation of the brain and provide proper nutrients to it, are used in combination with the above-mentioned medicines. Depending upon the type of ADHD and the age of the affected individual, different types of herbal and herbomineral medicines are used in the management and treatment of ADHD.
Certain Ayurvedic Panchkarma treatment procedure such as Shiro-Basti and Shirodhara may also be very effective in the treatment of ADHD; however, these procedure may be difficult or contraindicated in smaller children. Most individuals affected with severe type of ADHD may require treatment for about six to nine months in order to achieve significant benefit from treatment. However, Ayurvedic herbal treatment is very effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD and dramatically changing the life of the affected individual.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of ADHD.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com
