CBD also known as Cannabidiol is one of many active ingredients found in the Cannabis and Hemp plant. Many are unaware that the Cannabis plant has a male and female part. The male version of the plant is more commonly referred to as the “hemp plant” whereas the female version of the plant is commonly referred to as marijuana. The chemical properties of CBD are often confused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Both compounds have a similar chemical make-up although the arrangement of their molecules are different allowing for a different effect on the body.
CBD oil is more commonly extracted from the hemp plant. It is known that the hemp plant contains high amounts of CBD coupled with a THC content below 0.3%. There are several ways that CBD can be ingested ranging from edibles, tinctures and many others. It is important to know whether or not the CBD was derived from cannabis or the hemp plant in order to yield the results that you are expecting.
Does CBD oil help with ADHD?
It is important to understand that CBD is not suitable for treating ADHD although it can potentially relieve symptoms of ADHD.
Research exploring the effects of CBD on ADHD symptoms is relatively new.
However, according to new research CBD for ADHD can potentially relieve symptoms although the conclusion at this time is very unclear.
CBD leverages the endocannabinoid system in the brain in order to achieve homeostasis in the body. CBD binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors in order to trigger chemical responses in the brain that assist in regulating symptoms related to anxiety, stress and hyperactivity. With that being said, it is unclear whether or not this process is effective in people diagnosed with ADHD.
The majority of research collected on the effects of CBD on ADHD focuses on Cannabis. Many researchers argue that cannabis would worsen ADHD symptoms due to its psychoactive effects.
A study taken in 2016 tested the effects of cannabis use on ADHD subtypes delivered inconclusive results. The researchers collected data from 2811 cannabis users found that individuals who refrained from using cannabis regularly reported symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity when sober. This conclusion may suggest that cannabis could reduce hyperactivity symptoms, or could pose the idea that hyperactivity could be a withdrawal symptom of reduced cannabis use.
The research concludes that CBD for ADHD should not be considered treatment but can treat symptoms that are consistent in people who suffer from ADHD. AN example of this is anxiety; anxiety is common amongst individuals suffering from ADHD. A 2016 case study tested the ability of CBD to help with anxiety and sleep challenges in young people. Research found that there was little evidence that spoke to the efficacy of this method, however, it is recommended that more research is done on this subject.
In addition to this study, an alternative study focusing specifically on the relationship between ADHD symptoms and cannabis users yielded some interesting results. Researchers concluded that people diagnosed with subtypes of ADHD that show symptoms related to hyperactivity and impulsivity found cannabis to be an effective way to manage those particular symptoms and were more likely to use cannabis to manage these symptoms.
What is the CBD Dosage for ADHD?
The dosage for CBD can vary based on several factors. It is important to understand what symptoms you are trying to treat and how different variables could affect your experience using CBD.
There are 4 major variables that will assist you in choosing a CBD dosage for ADHD.
Concentration: It is important to understand how concentrated the CBD product is. For example, a CBD oil tincture that contains 1000mg of CBD in comparison to a product that contains 500mg requires a different dosage amount.
Tolerance: An individual that has a history using cannabis may be more tolerant of the CBD molecule. It is possible that an individual that this person may require a higher dosage amount in order to yield the results that they are expecting
Health Ailment being treated: More serious health concerns may require a higher dosage amount than minor health concerns.
For more instructions on dosage amounts for chronic health illnesses, you should always consult your physician first. However for more information on cbd dosage for ADHD, please see our dosage chart.
Is CBD oil for an ADHD child a good idea?
CBD can be good for children but can pose risks for children with ADHD.
There is evidence that speaks to the efficacy of CBD reducing ADHD symptoms however some research suggests that children ingesting cannabis before the age 16 could increase their risk of cognitive impairment during these crucial years of their body development. However, there is not enough research done on CBD isolates to draw conclusions on the efficacy of CBD alone. More research is required.
In addition to this research, children consuming cannabis products at a young age do run a higher risk of substance abuse. A study taken in 2014 concluded that children with ADHD are 1.5 times more likely to suffer with marijuana use disorder.
All in all, there is not enough research to prove that CBD pure isolate oil would yield the same effects. It is important to differentiate between the psychoactive properties in THC compared to the non-psychoactive properties of CBD in order to draw a fair conclusion.
It is recommended that you consult your physician before giving CBD to your child. If this approach appeals to you please see our dosing chart for CBD dosage for ADHD children.
Conclusion
It is inconclusive as to whether or not CBD is an effective way to treat ADHD symptoms. The reason for this is because there is not enough research that has tested the efficacy of CBD itself but instead research is focused on the efficacy of cannabis. CBD could potentially propose a great holistic alternative to managing symptoms related to ADHD. It is important to note that this is not considered to be an effective treatment for ADHD itself. It is always recommended that before making any changes to your treatment methods that you consult a physician first. CBD pure isolate oil provides a great option for individuals who are looking to benefit from the properties of the CBD molecule without yielding any psychoactive effects.