Essential Oils That Help with ADHD

The topic of essential oils that help with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is still a hotly debated one. There isn’t a lot of scientific evidence to back up a lot of the claims. I will state that right off the bat. But there are people who swear by the properties in oils helping a massive amount with the symptoms of ADHD.

With oils being natural extracts from leaves, roots, flowers, stems, seeds and parts of various plants there isn’t anything to lose by tying out what others have preached to be so helpful. There are a lot of known benefits to various oils. So it’s not inconceivable that they will help with ADHD.

Through this article I will take you through all the information I have been able to verify or pick up from reputable sauces. Any personal experience, and feedback from people who have ADHD, ADD, or have family members close to them who have these conditions.

Essential Oils for ADHD and Autism

There are specific oils known to have certain properties and help with specific functions. These can be tied to the symptoms of ADHD and used to treat them. Such as;

Roman Chamomile – This oil has soothing and comforting effects.

Lavender – Another oil that calms a person down and helps with anxiety.

Patchouli – Works by soothing the nervous system.

Frankincense – Gives the immune system a boost.

Ylang Ylang – Calms emotions and helps with mental stability.

Safe Ways to Use Essential Oils

When using oils with people suffering with ADHD, autism, PTSD, or other similar conditions, you have a few options on how to administer the oils.

Firstly I have to point out that with conditions such as these you should always consult a healthcare professional before moving forward. Especially if the person is already on some kind of medicine.

When you have been give the all-clear, consider these three methods as follows;

Using a Diffuser in the Household

The best way to release a cloud of calm over the entire house is with a diffuser. This is particularly effective if you can feel tensions building up. Or even if fights are starting to break out between siblings.

You can mix your oil blend depending on the situation and the severity too. It’s a flexible, easy to do option.

Make Your Own Spray Bottle

It’s handy to have a handheld spray bottle to hand. It’s not always possible to set up and use a diffuser. You can use a spray if you’re away from home, and you can quickly spray it on to bedding or into a bath.

Be careful not to make your solution too strong. 5-6 drops in a 2 oz bottle is typically more than enough.

Make a Massage Oil for Added Calm and Relaxation

Using essential oils to massage someone creates a relaxing and calm atmosphere almost instantly. Given last thing at night is going to give someone a much better night’s sleep.

Foods That Make ADHD Worse

If you or a member of your family are showing signs of ADHD, and especially if you have been diagnosed as such by a doctor – you should look at your diet.

There is a lot of scientific evidence to back up that fact that diet has a huge impact ADHD, or ADD. This study here undertaken at the ADHD research centre in the Netherlands goes as far as to state that, ‘food is the main cause of ADHD’.

A bold statement. But with a wealth of studies to back up their comments, it can’t be ignored. Some of the foods you should eliminate from the diet of a ADD suffer include;

• Sugary treats like candy and cakes rich in sugar
• Sugary drinks such as sodas and fizzy pop
• Frozen foods packed with additives and preservatives
• Energy drinks, the new problem plaguing our teens

As a rule check the label of the food you’re serving up. Look for lists of preservatives and sugary additives. These are the trigger foods you want to avoid. At least for a trial period to see what difference it makes.

Attention Deficit Disorder Essential Oils in More Detail

Ylang Ylang Oil for ADHD

The sedative properties in ylang ylang slow down a person’s pulse rates and blood pressure. Helping someone calm down and really take a step back from what they are thinking and doing.

Ideal for diffusing situations that are close to reaching boiling point. It is also used to increase concentration and alertiveness.

Roman Chamomile Oil for ADHD

Roman chamomile has therapeutic effects on the skin, mind, body and spirit. People turn to this oil to help overcome feelings of depression and anxiety. So given to someone with any variant of ADD is going to be beneficial.

I really like this oil and I’ve experienced it’s calming effect. It’s a subtle, but powerful oil. If you have never used it I recommend picking some up.

Lavender Oil for ADHD

Lavender is not just a pleasant aroma. It has a wide range of qualities, including relieving depression, stress, and bringing a calming and soothing atmosphere.

Lavender oil contains linalool and linalyl acetate. Two compounds known to help the brain retain focus and unwind. You will see an improvement in cognitive performance and the alertness of the person.

Patchouli Oil for ADHD

Patchouli has been utilized as an antidepressant, antiseptic, sedative, and antiphlogistic for longer than I can trace.

This all wraps up as a calming effect on the nervous system. Meaning that someone who is displaying erratic or over energetic behaviour can be calmed down gently with some exposure to the oil.

Frankincense Oil for ADHD

Frankincense oil stimulates the limbic system which is the memory centre of the brain. It effective at combating depression, soothing the symptoms of stress, and helping focus the mind on the task in hand.

It’s also great for keeping skin looking and feeling young. Tidying up scratches and cuts. It’s the first port of call for most when it comes to calming someone with ADD and trying to shift their focus to something that will keep them occupied.