adhd

 ADHD and TCM: A Holistic Approach to Treating ADHD with Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meditation, and Qi Gong

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a disorder that affects both children and adults. Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and trouble controlling emotions. Although modern medicine offers behavioral therapies and medications, a holistic approach that includes traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), meditation, and Qi Gong exercises is becoming increasingly popular.

Understanding ADHD from a Western Medical Perspective

In Western medicine, ADHD is defined as a neurological disorder that has to do with brain function and neurotransmitters. Standard ADHD treatment often involves stimulant medications that aim to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Medications can be effective, but they also have side effects, such as appetite problems, sleep disturbances, and increased anxiety. That's why more and more people are looking for alternatives that can support the healing process naturally.

TCM Approach to ADHD

In traditional Chinese medicine, ADHD is seen as an imbalance in the body and mind. TCM focuses on harmony between different parts of the body – both physical and emotional. Attention deficits and hyperactivity can be related to weakened function of organs such as the liver, heart and kidneys, which in TCM translates to imbalances of Yin and Yang and Qi (life energy).

From a TCM perspective, key aspects of ADHD treatment include:

Improving Qi circulation in the body – This strengthens mental energy, which promotes better concentration.

Balance Yin and Yang – Maintaining a balance between these forces can help control emotions and reduce impulsivity.

Strengthening Internal Organs – Liver and heart health are crucial to mental and emotional health.

TCM for ADHD: Herbs, Acupuncture, and Diet

TCM uses many therapeutic methods that can support the treatment of ADHD. Here are the most important ones:

Herbal medicine

Herbs used in TCM can help with calmness and concentration. Examples of herbs include:

Ginkgo biloba – Increases blood flow to the brain and may support cognitive function.

Ginseng Root – May have a tonic effect, supporting energy balance and concentration.

Rehmannia Root – Used to strengthen the kidneys and support mental health.

Herbs: Long Gu Mu li - with a calming effect

An shen ding zhi wan - herbal medicine with a calming effect

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the key elements of TCM. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can affect energy balance, calming the mind and reducing hyperactivity. Studies suggest that regular acupuncture can improve cognitive function and help regulate emotions.

Diet

TCM emphasizes diet as part of daily therapy. People with ADHD should avoid foods that cause hyperactivity, such as refined sugars, caffeine, processed foods, and hot spices. Foods that support energy balance are recommended, such as fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

Meditation and Qi Gong in ADHD Therapy

In addition to TCM treatment, you may want to consider practices that support mental and emotional balance, such as meditation and Qi Gong .

Meditation

Mindfulness meditation helps develop the ability to concentrate and control impulses. Regular meditation practice can help people with ADHD to calm down and increase awareness of thoughts and emotions, which can be useful in everyday stress management.

Simple meditation technique : Find a quiet place, sit comfortably, focus on your breath and try to maintain your attention on each inhalation and exhalation. Over time, the practice of meditation can support the development of the ability to focus and calm down.

Qi Gong

Qi Gong is a traditional Chinese form of movement and breathing that aims to balance energy in the body. Qi Gong exercises help regulate breathing, increase body awareness, and support balance between mind and body.

A simple Qi Gong exercise for beginners : Stand up straight with your legs slightly apart and your arms at your sides. Focus on your breathing, gently raising and lowering your arms in rhythm with your breathing. This exercise can help you calm down, reduce stress and increase mindfulness.

Combining TCM and Western Medicine in ADHD Therapy

A holistic approach that combines TCM, meditation, Qi Gong, and Western medicine can yield the best results. It is important that treatment is individually tailored, so patients should consult both a physician and a certified TCM specialist. Integrating these two approaches can help reduce ADHD symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.

Summary

ADHD is a challenge for both children and adults, but a holistic approach can provide relief and support in everyday functioning. Traditional Chinese medicine, herbal medicine, acupuncture, a proper diet, as well as practices such as meditation and Qi Gong, can be effective support in ADHD therapy. It is worth considering combining the methods of modern medicine with TCM practices and mindfulness techniques to achieve better balance, peace and concentration.

Other diseases

New information about ADHD and new ways and methods of treatment will appear here.