Children, ADHD and Aromatherapy
by Sherry Williams, Professional Aromatherapist, Reiki Master

I would first like to give some general information about ADD and ADHD formerly known as hyperactivity and specifically how these two conditions present themselves in children, more often in school-age boys than girls. Children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) display a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity. Common characteristics seen in children with AD/HD include: difficulty regulating attention; inability to follow through on instructions, schoolwork or chores; easily distracted and forgetful; excessive restlessness; constantly on the go and into everything. Children with either of these two conditions find it difficult to make and keep friends, and that directly affects their self-esteem. Symptoms of ADD and ADHD are often not rot readily seen in young children until they are required to do tasks that require sustained attention. Depression can be confused with ADHD because it is difficult to diagnose and sleep problems have been suggested as causing ADHD. If you suspect that your child has either of these two conditions please consult with your family doctor to get a more complete list of conditions and current treatment options.

Children, parents, caregivers and teachers can and do often feel at a loss when dealing with ADD and ADHD. What is the best course of action? Is a chemical solution safe for my child? How long should my child stay on his/her medication? Are there any side effects? These are questions parents all too commonly ask. As an alternative health care practitioner I never support an either/or solution but I am willing to offer an opinion as to alternatives that can enhance an existing solution or possibly replace an existing solution.

Treatment can include short-term medication coupled with counseling and behavioral and educational strategies. Amphetamines have been prescribed for children over the age of 3 years and they do have side effects. There seems to be some controversy over whether diet intervention plays a part in alleviating these symptoms. From an alternative health care perspective, the B vitamins (enhance brain function and digestion), Vitamin C (anti-stress), Calcium and Magnesium (calming), and Valerian Root Extract might be helpful. Please consult with a qualified Master Herbalist or Naturopathic Doctor for more complete information.

In my work as an aromatherapist, I have found aromatherapy to produce dramatic results. In helping a 10 year-old boy with ADHD, I had an opportunity to experience both the withdrawal effect of Ritalin and an awesome outcome as a result of treating his condition with a synergistic blend of essential oils. Just before his medication lost its effectiveness. I created a blend using age appropriate amounts of Lavender, Chamomile, Sandalwood, and Rose and encouraged its use because it is calming, balancing, grounding, dispels anger and promotes self-love. This blend was highly successful in treating his condition The behavior changes I noted were a greatly increased ability to take direction and significantly decreased aggression. He became focused, happy, relaxed, open, approachable and loving. His parents are now considering taking him off Ritalin or reducing his dosage because their son is showing such improvement when using his blend. Their son has asked to apply the blend himself and has become an active partner in maintaining his health with parental support. In fact, his parents tell me that he loves it and wants to use it all the time, even while at school.

I also helped a 17 year old girl with symptoms associated with ADD with a synergistic blend of Rose, Lemon, Ylang Ylang, Chamomile, Lavender, Rosemary, and Cedarwood. This blend encourages self-esteem, openness, motivation, focus, positivity and relaxation. Her Mother reported that her daughter had made many positive changes; she was managing her daily routine, her schoolwork noticeably improved and she is communicating more openly with her parents .

Regular and consistent parental support is paramount in helping our kids achieve emotional, physical and spiritual health. Most children can articulate their concerns and when presented with a solution that works for them are better able to cope and fit in with their peer group. No matter what choices are presented, children are individuals and should be treated as such. When we as parents are able to make good choices that address whole family concerns we can then stand back, smile and watch our children blossom.
From my heart to yours ...

You can reach Sherry Williams, Professional Aromatherapist, Reiki Master and Owner of Essential Spirits at 249-1433 for a complete list of her services.




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