Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning or development. ADHD is commonly diagnosed in children, but it can continue into adulthood. Individuals with ADHD often have difficulty focusing, organizing tasks, following through on instructions, or sitting still for long periods.

ADHD has both genetic and environmental influences, and while its exact cause is not fully understood, it involves imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly in dopamine regulation.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD

- Inattention: Difficulty sustaining attention, making careless mistakes, forgetting tasks, avoiding tasks that require mental effort, and being easily distracted.

- Hyperactivity: Fidgeting, restlessness, inability to sit still, excessive talking, interrupting others.

- Impulsivity: Acting without thinking, interrupting conversations, difficulty waiting for one’s turn, making hasty decisions.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and ADHD

In TCM, ADHD is seen as an imbalance in the heart, spleen, and kidney systems. ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity and difficulty focusing, are often linked to a disturbance of the heart and Shen (spirit), while deficiencies in the spleen and kidney Qi contribute to poor concentration and restlessness. TCM treatments focus on calming the mind, nourishing the organs, and balancing the flow of Qi and blood.

TCM Diagnosis and Approaches:

- Heart Fire and Shen Disturbance: In TCM, excessive hyperactivity and impulsivity are often associated with heart fire, which disturbs the Shen (spirit), leading to restlessness and irritability.

- Herbs: Formulas like Zhu Sha An Shen Wan (Cinnabar Pill to Calm the Spirit) are used to calm the mind, clear heart fire, and settle the Shen. Key herbs include Zhu Sha (Cinnabar), Huang Lian (Coptis), and Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis).

- Spleen Qi Deficiency: Poor concentration and difficulty focusing are often linked to spleen Qi deficiency. Strengthening the spleen can improve mental clarity and focus.

- Acupuncture: Acupuncture points such as Heart 7 (Shen Men), Spleen 6 (San Yin Jiao), and Liver 3 (Tai Chong) are used to calm the Shen, regulate liver Qi, and strengthen the spleen.

- Kidney Essence Deficiency: The kidneys in TCM are responsible for growth and development, and deficiency in kidney essence can contribute to difficulty concentrating and hyperactivity.