Acupuncture and herbal medicine for ADHD
A patient in her mid-30s was recently diagnosed with ADHD. She presented with difficulty concentrating, poor memory and comprehension. She also reported bloating, severe sinusitis, difficulty falling asleep, excessive dreaming, fatigue, and eczema on the elbows. In addition, she experienced pain around the knees, ankles, and the soles of the feet.
A combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine was prescribed to address her symptoms, along with dietary advice to support treatment. After five sessions of acupuncture and taking herbal medicine, her digestion improved significantly when she adhered to the dietary recommendations. Pain she was experiencing subsided. She was better able to manage stress, and both sleep quality and energy levels improved. Her eczema and sinusitis also showed noticeable improvement.
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), digestive weakness is often associated with Spleen and Stomach Qi deficiency. Over time, this deficiency can lead to the formation of Phlegm-Dampness, which may cause lethargy, obstruct the sensory orifices, and impair clear thinking and concentration. Phlegm-Dampness can also obstruct the proper nourishment of the skin, contributing to dermatological conditions.
In this case, the patient’s inattentive-type ADHD was effectively managed by addressing the underlying digestive imbalance. By strengthening the Spleen and resolving Phlegm-Dampness, a positive and sustained clinical outcome was achieved.
