Homeopathy and ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neuro-behavioral disorder that arises in childhood and may continue into the teen years and adulthood. Children and adults with ADHD may appear inattentive or distracted, hyperactive, and/or impulsive (act without thinking). Signs and symptoms begin before the age of 4, but usually diagnosed after entering school (low academic performance). Children may be diagnosed with ADHD if they exhibit significant and disabling symptoms at home and at school for at least 6 months.

ADHD is treated medically with stimulant medications. Methylphenidate (Ritalin or Concerta) is the most commonly used medication for ADHD. While these medications can at times be effective if carefully monitored, side effects are possible, and most of these drugs should not be given to children under age six. The most common side effects from these medications are trouble sleeping, decrease in appetite, and nervousness.

Many parents look to provide their children with non-toxic medicines and prefer to consider other options when they can. Others find that Ritalin is not effective and then look for alternatives. Homeopathy is a safe and effective form of medicine that works with the body’s natural defenses, making it easier for children to integrate back into school life and social activities.

Unlike conventional medicine, homeopathy seeks to treat each child as an individual. There is no homeopathic Ritalin. A detailed history is fundamental to the correct choice of remedy. The homeopath will ask about the health of the child and the family, the pregnancy and delivery, early development, vaccinations, life events, schooling, favorite foods, and drinks to tailor the remedy to the child.

The aim of homeopathic treatment is to stimulate healing at the deepest level, and to allow a gentle return to health. Ritalin and related drugs act by suppressing the symptoms. One common complaint is that the children lose the good side of their hyperactivity, which we aim to retain with homeopathy. It is as important to nurture the creative spirit, the imagination, and the energy of these children and at the same time to remove the unacceptable behavior patterns.

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Maha Mansour is a Registered Homeopath at the Inline Health and Sports Injury Clinic. 

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