Did you know that our body can heal itself naturally and overcome most diseases? As long as we maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat nutritious food, and get plenty of exercise, we can recover from any condition without using medication. Sometimes it’s just a matter of figuring 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 control the disorder more effectively than medication. Skullcap is a herbal remedy for ADHD that can help reduce hyperactivity, inattention, and other symptoms of the condition.

There are two known varieties of skullcap: American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and Chinese cap (Scutellaria baicalensis). Although both varieties are called “skullcap”, they are in fact very different herbs that are used to treat different diseases. Chinese skullcap can be found in Central Asia and Russia, and Chinese medicine uses it to treat headaches, allergic reactions, and inflammation. The skullcap grows in North America and in cold climates, and is the variety used to treat ADHD and a number of neurological conditions. Skullcap was first discovered by early 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 blood supply to the brain and inhibit muscle spasms.

While no clinical trials have been designed to evaluate the effects of skullcap in ADHD, many alternative practitioners and homeopaths recommend using the herb because of its calming effects. There are many ways to use skullcap as a natural remedy for ADHD. One way is to buy commercially prepared skullcap extract capsules. The herb can also be used as a tea; just put two teaspoons of dried skullcap leaves in a teapot and drink three times a day. Skullcap can also be served as a tincture (a highly concentrated herbal extract). Herbalists recommend buying 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 natural remedies for ADHD are generally safe, it is always wise to consult a homeopath or a holistic health professional before taking any herb or giving it to your child. Allergic reactions and unwanted side effects are rare, but have been known to occur.