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Ask the Herbalist--Autism

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ANSWERS FROM LORYHL
QUESTION:
I just read this when I was searching for some answers for Micah. She fights sleep so bad and the more tired she is the more hyper she gets. I know you are not a doctor but this was at Walmart. It's 300mcg and easier to find. Do you think I could try a half or quarter? 
     Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may have lower than normal levels of melatonin. A 2008 study found that unaffected parents of individuals with ASD also have lower melatonin levels, and that the deficits were associated with low activity of the ASMT gene, which encodes the last enzyme of melatonin synthesis     (interesting) 

ADHD
Research shows that after melatonin is administered to ADHD patients, the time needed to fall asleep is significantly reduced. Furthermore, the effects of the melatonin after three months showed no change from its effects after one week of use.[57]

ANSWER: Good thought, and research. I also suggest a half dose of L tryptophan, Use the melatonin first, then try the  LT  after a week or two of the melatonin, I have found it works or it doesn’t.  I have found, using them both together is excellent, in adults, not sure in children, but looks good. Give her a 1/4 pill, for a week, then 1/2 pill, for a week, then see how it does, to go for 3/4 pill if needed, but maybe only 1/4 or 1/2 should work.