Can CBD help with ADHD/ADD?

Can CBD help with ADHD/ADD?

 

CBD For ADHD

CBD has been shown to benefit certain mental health conditions. Scientists and researchers are beginning to understand its effects on behavioral and neurological conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD.) However, additional research is needed. CBD oil may help with managing specific symptoms that many people experience, like anxiety. Here are the potential benefits, side effects, and more. We also discuss the risks and whether it is safe for children.

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the more than 100 cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), an internal system responsible for maintaining homeostasis. Some of the functions the ECS regulates are anxiety, stress, mood, appetite, temperature, sleep, and pain. This system is now recognized as the 12th internal system in humans and mammals. This vital system consists of receptors located throughout the brain and body. These receptors are known as CB1 and CB2. CB1 is (more abundant in the brain) directly related to neurological ailments. CB2 (more abundant in the immune system) is connected to pain and inflammation. The CBD compounds appear to trigger your body to use more of the cannabinoids it produces naturally, leading to therapeutic effects. CBD and medical marijuana are not the same things. Although CBD oils are made from cannabis and hemp, they do not always contain THC. The "high" or "stoned" feelings come from THC. A broad-spectrum CBD does not contain THC. Therefore CBD does not get you "high". CBD Wild Leaf's products are broad-spectrum, so they are THC-free! Full-spectrum CBD products derived from hemp do contain a minimal amount of THC (0.3 percent or less.), so they can cause psychoactive effects in some people who are THC-sensitive.

 Is CBD good for ADHD?

The main benefits of CBD include a decrease in anxiety and a reduction in hyperactivity. To date, research on CBD as an ADHD treatment is sparse. Emerging data is fueling hope that CBD may offer an alternative treatment to prescription drugs. Anecdotal reports from people state that CBD oil helps with the symptoms of hyperactivity and restlessness. One review collected data from almost 3000 cannabis users who were diagnosed with ADHD. The study found that those participants who used cannabis daily reported fewer symptoms of hyperactivity and restlessness, supporting CBD's ability to impact the symptoms of ADHD. In Germany, researchers conducted a study in 2015 that examined the effects of  30 people with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). All participants reported improved concentration, better sleep, and reduced impulsivity. They concluded that these adults represent individuals with ADHD who experience a reduction of symptoms when using cannabis. These studies provide preliminary evidence that CBD may be able to ease the symptoms of ADHD.

Traditional ADHD treatments

Several types of pharmaceutical medications treat ADHD, but they vary in suitability, reliability, and tolerability. There are two categories of traditional ADHD medications: stimulants and non-stimulants. Let us discuss these two types of medicines and their side effects. Stimulant ADHD medication is widely used. It is fast-acting and reduces the symptoms of approximately 75% of children diagnosed with ADHD. However, stimulant medications are not without side effects. These include headaches, mood changes, insomnia, and a poor appetite, leading to weight loss and dry mouth. Prescription non-stimulant medications are medicines that are less likely to cause side effects, but they do exist. These may include headaches, upset stomach, dizziness, fatigue, mood changes, nausea, and poor appetite, leading to weight loss.

Side effects of CBD

CBD oil does not produce any of the adverse side effects listed above. CBD oil has been known to reduce anxiety, increase appetite, sleep aid, reduce nausea, reduce headaches, improve mood, and promote relaxation. Currently, there is limited information about CBD's risks and side effects. As more studies are conducted, the results will be available. We know that CBD is well tolerated at high doses of as much as 1,500 milligrams (mg) per day. CBD may interact with several different supplements, prescription medications, or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. CBD interferes with enzymes, like grapefruit juice, which are critical to drug metabolism. We recommend you check to see if any supplements or medications come with a "grapefruit warning" before using CBD. CBD oil can be taken orally, by ingesting and inhalation. Oral consumption of CBD is considered less likely to cause side effects. Inhaling CBD, either through smoking or vaping, may cause severe lung damage.

CBD Oil For ADHD

Currently, there are no guidelines on how to use CBD oil to treat ADHD symptoms. If you're new to CBD, you should start with a small dose, gradually increasing your dosage until you obtain the desired results. This will also reduce your risk of side effects. Some people may experience drowsiness and diarrhea when they first begin taking CBD oil.

Best CBD Oil For ADHD

One significant thing you should do if you are considering using CBD for help with ADHD is to make sure you select a quality CBD. The FDA tested several CBD products and found some that did not contain the CBD levels the manufacturers claimed, and others that contained unsafe contaminants. Another study of 84 companies found that almost 25% of the products had zero percent CBD, and only 31% had CBD on the label. Other products that used imported oils tested positive for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial. CBD Wild Leaf only uses CBD Oil grown and harvested in Colorado. We post the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) on the website and embed them into the products' QR codes. We advise avoiding those that do not. 

CBD for Kids with ADHD

CBD oil may be an alternative for parents who wish to avoid the unpleasant side effects of traditional ADHD medications while reducing their child's symptoms. Only a few studies have examined the use of CBD in children; this is the stigma associated with marijuana the lack of knowledge of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and CBD.

There is only one CBD product, Epidiolex,  approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for both children and adults. This prescription drug is actually used to treat severe forms of epilepsy.  Most reports regarding the use of CBD in children are anecdotes reported through doctors or researchers. Some parents have administered CBD to their children, who reported side effects of drowsiness and fatigue. In 2015, there was a Facebook poll in which parents reported safely administering CBD products to their children for epilepsy. The results reported by parents were improvements in sleep, alertness, and mood with regular CBD use. Since evidence is anecdotal and CBD has not been studied specifically to treat ADHD in children, it's recommended to talk to your child's doctor before administering CBD to your child.

CBD for ADHD for Child

While there is some evidence to support CBD's usefulness in children with specific medical conditions, such as epilepsy, there are also significant concerns. One of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions among kids in the U.S. is ADHD, affecting an estimated 1 in 12 children. It often involves a range of disruptive symptoms, including the inability to focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Studies have shown that only increasing sleep and reducing anxiety can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD.

 

CBD Gummies for ADHD

Unfortunately, oil dosage can be tricky to sort out because CBD oil's impact can depend on many factors, including weight, size, age, and gender. CBD gummies are the most common for ADHD. Since there is no universal CBD oil dose, it is essential to seek medical advice before administering it as a treatment. Also, remember that serving recommendations on CBD oil products have been created with adults in mind, and individual adjustments may be required for children.

You may wish to discuss the dosage with a naturopathic doctor who uses CBD oil to treat certain medical conditions.

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