Impact of a Polyherbal Intervention on Behavioural and Cognitive Functions in Neurodiverse Children- An Open Label Study

Abstract

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) are prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders in children, frequently associated with impairments in behaviour, cognition, and adaptive and academic functioning. Conventional treatment strategies may not address all symptomatic dimensions and are often associated with adverse effects. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a polyherbal formulation (PHF) as a potential integrative therapeutic approach. Aim: To assess the impact of polyherbal formulation (PHF) on impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention in neurodiverse children, with a focus on ADHD and SLD subtypes. Materials and Methods: A prospective open-label study conducted involving 30 children aged 3–12 years diagnosed with ADHD or SLD. Participants received polyherbal formulation (PHF) for two months in age-adjusted doses, administered thrice daily (6 a.m., 12 p.m., and 6 p.m.) with lukewarm water after meals. The formulation consisted of herbs traditionally used and pharmacologically validated for cognitive enhancement and behavioural regulation, including Withania somnifera (Rt), Glycyrrhiza glabra (Rt), Rauvolfia serpentina (Rt), and Nardostachys jatamansi (Rhz), prepared under GMP-compliant conditions. Pre and post intervention assessments were conducted using the Vineland Social Maturity Scale (VSMS), Binet-Kamat Test of Intelligence (BKT-IQ), ADHD Questionnaire (ADHD-Q), and Digit Span (Forward). Data were analysed using paired t-tests, with Pearson and Spearman correlations and Cronbach’s alpha used to assess consistency and reliability. Results and Conclusion: Significant improvements were observed across all outcome measures: VSMS (p < 0.001), BKT-IQ, (p < 0.001), ADHD-Q (p < 0.001), and Digit Span (p< 0.001). High internal consistency and correlation coefficients reinforced the reliability of findings. The polyherbal formulation demonstrated significant improvements in core symptoms associated with ADHD and SLD, particularly in social functioning, cognitive performance, and working memory. These outcomes suggest that polyherbal formulation (PHF) with its holistic profile, favourable safety margin, and cost-effectiveness may serve as a complementary or alternative therapeutic modality in pediatric neurodevelopmental care.