Objective:

To evaluate animal studies investigating herbal medicines for ADHD, identify limitations in experimental models and methodologies, and propose a framework for future research, particularly focusing on methodological rigor and translational relevance.

Key Findings:

• 25 studies analyzed, with a strong reliance on spontaneously hypertensive rats (48%) and predominantly male animals (88%).
• Behavioral assessments focused mainly on hyperactivity (72%), with limited evaluations of inattention and impulsivity.
• Herbal interventions showed improvements in ADHD-like behaviors and modulation of catecholaminergic neurotransmission, including increased dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
• 80% of studies did not report safety outcomes, and no study clearly described randomization or blinding procedures.
• Certain formulations, such as Long Mu Qing Xin mixture and An Shen Ding Zhi Ling, demonstrated promising multitarget effects.

Interpretation:

Herbal medicines show potential for ADHD treatment, but limitations in study designs and methodologies hinder their translational relevance, necessitating improved research standards.

Limitations:

• Limited diversity of animal models used, impacting generalizability.
• Narrow scope of behavioral assessments, limiting understanding of ADHD.
• Lack of safety outcome reporting, raising concerns about intervention safety.
• Absence of clear randomization and blinding procedures, affecting study validity.

Conclusion:

Future research should prioritize diverse models, comprehensive assessments, and rigorous methodological standards, particularly in safety evaluations and behavioral assessments.