Can the sap of the French maritime pine tree be one of the keys to overcoming ADHD naturally? Many researchers and experts believe so. A growing amount of evidence shows that pycnogenol, the French maritime pine tree bark extract, is a powerful natural antioxidant that can alleviate the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Pycnogenol is a complex combination of natural bioflavonoids and other antihistamine and antioxidant compounds. Its healing properties were first discovered in 1947, and since then, doctors across Europe have prescribed pycnogenol for asthma, allergies, inflammation, sports injuries, and cardiovascular diseases. Only in the last several years did researchers discover its ability to treat chronic hyperactivity and inattention in children and adults. Since then, scientists have designed clinical trials that explored the possibility of using pycnogenol as a treatment for ADHD. These are the benefits they discovered:
Stimulates neurotransmitter production as well as Ritalin
Since ADHD is primarily caused by a deficiency in neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, medical doctors prescribe stimulant medication to suppress the symptoms and enable children to focus and behave. Pycnogenol is a natural neurotransmitter regulator that does not cause harmful side effects of Ritalin. The research of California-based scientist Marcia Zimmerman shows that pycnogenol regulates the enzymes that control norepinephrine and dopamine, resulting in better control of excitatory responses. European clinical trials also observed improved concentration, attention, and cognition in ADHD children when they took pycnogenol. The same children who participated in the clinical trials did not respond well to prescribed ADHD medications.
A powerful antioxidant
Pycnogenol is considered to be a "super antioxidant," meaning it can permeate the blood-brain barrier and protect brain cells and tissues from free radicals better than other natural antioxidants. It is fifty times more powerful than vitamin E and twenty times more powerful than vitamin C. Combined with a regimen of omega-3 fish oil supplements, zinc, and magnesium, pycnogenol can help replenish the depleted nutrients needed for optimal functioning of the nervous system.
Maintains a healthy circulatory system
Pycnogenol has the ability to repair or strengthen damaged blood vessels, which promotes better blood circulation. This is important for children with ADHD, because they are often deficient in minerals like zinc, calcium, and magnesium. A healthy circulatory system makes sure that these minerals reach the brain, where they stimulate or regulate neurotransmitter production and reduce ADHD symptoms.
Lowers stress hormones
Children with ADHD tend to have high levels of stress hormones, which causes excitement, hyperactivity, and low impulse control. Researchers from Bratislava's Department of Child Psychology discovered that pycnogenol reduces stress hormones in ADHD children by 26.2%, resulting in improved cognition, learning, behavior, and attention.
Potent as it may be, pycnogenol is no miracle natural treatment for ADHD. In order for your child to receive its full benefits, pycnogenol must be combined with other natural therapeutic interventions. Pycnogenol is available in health stores as a food supplement, with a recommended dose of 1mg per 1kg of body weight. Consult a holistic health care practitioner before buying pycnogenol supplements, so he can design a comprehensive treatment plan to overcoming ADHD naturally.
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