Valerian and lemon balm for adhd

JOURNAL/ARTICLE REVIEW

Ross, S. M. (2015). Valerian root and lemon balm extracts: A phytomedicine compound improves symptoms of hyperactivity, attention deficits, and impulsivity in children. Holistic Nursing Practice, 29(6), 391–395. https://doi.org/10.1097/HNP.0000000000000118

Phytomedicine using a fixed combination of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) aerial extract.

The remedy was used to treat various hyperactivity levels, attention deficits, and impulsiveness in children but not meeting the criteria according to the DSM-IV for ADHD. Valerian has been shown to improve sleep disturbances in adults and children. Lemon balm promotes relaxation, restful sleep and increases attention. Both extracts are made up of over 100 chemicals and the main ingredient being its essential oil component. Children ages 6 to 11 years were given two tablets of fixed combination phytomedicine two times per day for seven weeks. The valerian root dosage was 640mg, and the dosage of lemon balm was 320 mg. The study's results determined that the children's symptoms were improved considerably, including parental reporting of intolerable behavior at 58% before treatment and a decrease to 18% after treatment. Distractibility, morning fatigue, and impulsiveness were symptoms that were significantly improved. Valerian root may cause headache, gastrointestinal upset, or insomnia. Lemon balm may cause gastrointestinal issues, increased appetite, or dizziness (Ross, 2015).

I would be open-minded to phytomedicine usages such as valerian root and lemon balm for ADHD in young children with precautions. Many parents prefer the natural route for their children, and I think it is up to the parents to choose the selected treatment. I would educate the parents on the side effects and that there is no evidence of either supplement's long-term effects. It is essential to provide all possible interventions and complications. I would be open and honest with the family if I were not educated on the specific type of remedy or disagreed with the treatment. I would also be hesitant about the interactions with other supplements and medications. Further research would be beneficial.