According to research published by the American Psychiatric Association, roughly 5% of children have ADHD, though this number may be an underrepresentation. Research put forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 11% of American children have diagnosable ADHD.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active compound found within the cannabis sativa plant. With many established medicinal benefits associated with mental health, researchers are actively looking for more areas where CBD may impact our daily lives. While research is sparse on the medicinal impact of CBD, there are currently studies being conducted on its effectiveness on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children.

CBD products are typically available in Gummies, Oils, and Inhalables.

How Does CBD Work?

The consumption of cannabidiol leads to an engagement with your endocannabinoid system. CBD engages with your cannabinoid receptors, both CB1 and CB2. CB2 is connected to the immune system where it addresses inflammation and pain. CB1 is related to the brain and connected to epilepsy.

CBD For ADHD Child: Realistic Expectations

According to Paul Mitrani, MD, of the Child Mind Institute, we are still a long way off from CBD as a mainstream medication for children. Mitrani stated, “The biggest problem is there’s a lot that we still need to know, especially in kids.”

While current research is limited on the impact that CBD can have on children, a study on the CBD product Epidiolex was performed by the FDA, proving effective at reducing seizures. This is the only FDA-approved CBD product that has been extensively studied in clinical trials.

Other potential areas of concern when using CBD oil for ADHD children include:

  • Potentially Unsafe Ingredients
  • Unreliable Absorption Rates
  • Inconsistent Dosing

CBD Oil and ADHD Symptoms

When we think of cannabis use and ADHD, we assume that both are related to impairment and the inability to focus. There is currently no evidence that cannabis/CBD worsens ADHD. With that being said, CBD expresses some of the benefits for ADHD without the psychoactive nature associated with cannabis, making for promising alternative care.

Before administering CBD, consider the following concepts:

  • Proper Dosage – Consult with a physician before offering CBD oil to your children for ADHD. Once that has been accomplished, work out the minimum proper CBD dosage for ADHD child to find relief. The smallest effective dose should always be chosen.
  • Method of Consumption – CBD oil can be consumed sublingually with a dropper. Some parents have found success by starting with one vial dropper of 500/mg CBD.
  • Additional Cannabinoids – Companies like Green Owl Wellness incorporate cannabinoids like CBG in their CBD oils. CBG is considered non-psychoactive as it reacts with the receptors in our brain, mainly noted for assisting paranoia, fighting inflammation, and reducing nausea.

While evidence is currently anecdotal, families have reported improvements in the health of their children after administering CBD regularly at low doses. By working with a medical professional, parents can hope to see some of the following improvements:

  • Improved Rest
  • Better Appetite
  • Reduced Symptoms of Hyperactivity
  • Better Focus and Concentration

While there is still plenty of research coming on the impact that CBD can have in children, the future is looking promising for this natural ADHD solution. Stay up-to-date on the latest and greatest in CBD products by following Green Owl Wellness.