Herbal Remedies for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a serious condition that affects many.Usually it appears very early on in life,anywhere from about three months to three years old. There are different forms of Autism, and while it can’t be cured, there are a few herbal remedies that can help. Having an autistic child means many frustrations and trials, but there is hope. Many children who are diagnosed with Autism grow up to be well functioning adults.People with Autism may suffer from very acute symptoms to very extreme, so the spectrum is very broad.Autism also effects an individuals sensitivity of the senses.It also can affect a person’s social interactions and language skills. Here’s a few herbal ideas that may very well be beneficial to those with Autism.
Vitamins and Minerals Are Essential
As with most things, vitamins and minerals are important in maintaining a balance.It is especially important in those who have Autism. Vitamins A,B,and C are exceptional for proper brain function and development. Vitamin E helps improve circulation, increasing the oxygen to the brain. Also, Vitamin B6 is very good for those with Autism. Red Raspberry, Nettle, and Corn Silk all have high vitamin and mineral content,and make for a great general tonic.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs can play a significant part in helping patients with Autism. The herb Gingko Biloba, is very good, especially for children, because it helps move more oxygen in the blood to the brain. This helps provide better focus and longer concentration levels. People who have Autism usually experience hyper sensitive emotions, so a combination of St.John’s Wort and Passionflower can help stabilize moods. Breathing exercises are beneficial as well and can also improve the blood oxygen level.For someone who is prone to nervousness, a combination of lemon balm, lavender and passionflower can be quite soothing. Ginger Root has been known to help stomach disorders, it is soothing and can help neutralize the toxins in the digestive tract. It is one of nature’s natural antibiotics, and it makes the time food spends in the digestive tract less, resulting in less gas and bloating. The herb Gotu Kola is a natural brain builder and memory enhancer. It has great neurological recovery benefits and boosts the circulatory system. It also is an aid to cognition.It is quite bitter, but it has a cooling effect on the body. It also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties, all which are useful to those with Autism. Black Cohosh Root has been used for many years as a relaxant, and also as an anti-seizure herb. One in four children with Autism Spectrum Disorder potentially could develop seizures, so this could be beneficial. Alfalfa is another herb that works well with Autism. Because of it’s blood purifying properties, it can help eliminate heavy metals from the blood. It also is very mild, having little to no side effects.These herbs can be used in infusions, extracts, tinctures or even capsule form. Honey, lemon, or stevia could be added to sweeten the taste. Wild Lettuce has also been proven to have an over all calming effect on the body, and also can help to restore balance. Combining Wild Lettuce with either Oats or St. John’s wort, also is very beneficial. The Five-Flower Formula developed by Dr.Edward Bach in the 1930s, is a very well known formula consisting of the flowers Clematis,Cherry Plum, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Star of Bethlehem.Used for emergency and crisis, it has many other properties that are helpful with Autism. It helps calm pain, suffering and confusion,and encourages recovery from many different aspects of trauma. It also helps alleviate the potential shock and nerve wracking things such as a visit to the doctor or dentist, moving, or travel. Can also be used for PTSD. This is useful for people of all ages with Autism, as it can help manage stress levels and help keep an individual from becoming overwhelmed and can help maintain balance. Essential oils may provide a soothing effect on an individual with Autism. Many different flowers can provide and invoke different feelings, and could provide a positive stimulation of the senses. Lavender and Citrus Bliss are just two essential oils that have been recommended for Autism. Since essential oils are easy to use, and have little to no side effects, a lot of people prefer essential oils as an additional tool to help Autism.While not considered an ‘herbal remedy,’ Fish Oil is also exceptionally beneficial for Autism, as it boosts the body with essential Omega-3 fatty acid.This helps with sleep and social interactions, both of which can be extremely difficult for those with Autism.
A Word of Caution
Because each individual with Autism Spectrum Disorders varies so greatly, the result of using herbs will vary, too. Always be sure to check with a healthcare provider before taking any herbs or herbal remedies as they can have a negative result in those taking medications.
Category: HEALTH, HERBAL REMEDIES
