J Diet Suppl. 2009;6(1):22-7. doi: 10.1080/19390210802687221.

Panax ginseng may improve some symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Author information

¹Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Regional Hospital Bozen, Bolzano, Italy. helmutniederhofer@yahoo.de

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

In this open trial, Panax ginseng, a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, actually used as an antidepressant, has been investigated for its efficacy in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients.

METHOD:

Three 14-17-year-old male psychiatric outpatients, diagnosed with ADHD disattention type have been rated at baseline and while taking Panax ginseng to determine its efficacy as a treatment for ADHD. Improvement was determined using comparisons of Conners' parent ratings.

RESULTS:

Patients' mean scores improved for Conners' hyperactivity, inattention, and immaturity factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although the sample size is very small and generalization is very difficult, this observation indicates that Panax ginseng may be a slightly effective treatment for ADHD.