 There are numerous alternative treatments for ADHD - some more effective than others. Chinese herbal medicine has roots that go back thousands of years. Surprisingly enough, when modern studies test many of the traditional Chinese herbs used to treat ADHD and other medical conditions, the studies find that the Chinese treatment methods are highly effective at treating the condition they are designed to cure. Find out how the following six Chinese herbs are beneficial in treating both children and adults with ADHD: Thorowax root Thorowax root has cell-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, and sedative effects. When used to treat ADHD, the sedative effects of the herbs can help control impulsive behavior and prevent hyperactivity. The sedative effects are extremely mild, and provide just enough sedation to benefit ADHD - not remove all personality from the child or adult taking the herb. Oriental ginseng Ginseng is an herb known for its concentration-boosting effects, which is why many memory-boosting supplements contain ginseng. Ginseng also increases endurance and relieves stress. The herb is known for its ability to improve oxygen flow to the brain, which encourages normal brain development. As some children with ADHD have a developmental delay of about three years, this is an effective herb for treating ADHD. Skullcap root Skullcap root is an herb that protects the nervous system. In many children with ADHD, the balance of the chemicals in the brain controlling the nervous system is off. Skullcap root can help retain the normal balance of chemicals in the brain. Skullcap root is particularly helpful for preventing hyperactivity and calming the nerves. Red jujube The jujube has many helpful properties, but for ADHD, the herb is more effective for calming the nerves and mind and creating a peaceful effect in the body. Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo biloba is an herb that is known for its ability to boost cognitive function in the brain. Ginkgo increases the amine neurotransmitter substances in the brain, which helps counteract some of the chemical deficiencies often seen in children with ADHD. Ginkgo can calm the mind and promote a peaceful spirit. Poria Poria has many benefits, including improving digestion and soothing the nerves. Many children with ADHD have poor digestion, and supplementing with poria can improve the health of the intestines and promote the elimination of toxins that can contribute to ADHD symptoms. Chinese herbs in scientific studies The theory behind Chinese herbs for ADHD sound beneficial, but without scientific backing, it is all postulation. However, several studies have looked at Chinese herbs and how they can benefit ADHD. In 1990, the Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou College of TCM looked at 100 children with ADHD. Eighty children were given Chinese herbs. At the end of the three-month study, 23 children were completely symptom free, 46 children showed significant improvement, and 10 had higher IQ scores. In 1994, the Shaanxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine examined 66 children with ADHD. The children were given Chinese herbs to help control their ADHD symptoms. Eighty-give percent of the children who took the Chinese herbs had improvements in symptoms. The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong College of TCM looked at another group of children with ADHD in 1995. This time, the children took liquid Chinese herbs. The effectiveness rate of the herbs was 94 percent. Chinese herbs for ADHD If you are looking for alternatives to Ritalin and other ADHD medications, Chinese herbs could be a viable option. Before reaching for traditional medicines, give Chinese herbs a try. 