CBD, or cannabidiol, is a popular product on the market today and many talk of its ability to treat and heal many health conditions – but does it work when it comes to symptoms of ADHD?
With today’s booming pharmaceutical industry and the numerous side effects that accompany it, many are starting to seek alternative treatments for ADHD. Supplements, herbs, vitamins and exercises are all gaining attention as well as scrutiny when it comes to their true viability for healing.
Some studies show that CBD for ADHD has the potential to help with symptoms, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, there is not a lot of scientific evidence to date to support this.
It is important that anybody interested in using CBD oil for ADHD know about recent regulations in their state and also that they do not replace any standard or prescribed CBD oil treatments for ADHD prior to talking with a medical professional.
Read on to find out whether or not CBD oil can be beneficial for treating ADHD and any possible side effects and risks.
What is CBD and CBD Oil?
CBD is an active compound derived from the cannabis plant. CBD oil contains high concentrations of cannabidiol.
Many people make an association with another popular active compound that is found in the cannabis plant: THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the compound that is responsible for making people who use it (often by smoking or ingesting it) feel euphoric or high.
CBD offers numerous benefits because of the way it interacts with the brain and the body. Our bodies are comprised of something called an endocannabinoid system, which helps to keep the body in homeostasis. This system includes receptors located in the central nervous system and also assists the immune tissues, the endocrine system, the secretion of hormones and also a person’s ability to handle stress. CBD also has an impact on the body’s receptors and enzymes.
When cannabidiol enters into the body, it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are responsible for affecting the brain and neurological system (CB1) and the immune system (CB2). Because of this, CBD oil is thought to have a significant impact on one’s body functions, from pain and inflammation to thinking and emotions.
CBD Oil Research for ADHD
Little evidence points to the fact that CBD has the ability to in fact treat ADHD. Furthermore, the majority of the research on CBD and ADHD is centered on cannabis. Remember that cannabis is made up of over 100 various compounds aside from CBD.
Despite this, anecdotal reports from individuals state that CBD oil helps with symptoms of ADHD, including restlessness and hyperactivity. Many people opt to use CBD Oil as part of their treatment regimen.
One 2017 study examined a group of patients who had been diagnosed with ADHD and who had been self-medicating with CBD.
Researchers in this study found that there was not a significant enough improvement where symptom reduction and brain function were concerned to state that CBD was a viable treatment option, although there was a slight improvement in the markers that pertained to hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, the markers were not significant enough to consider that cannabis was more effective in the trials than the placebo.
CBD Oil for Symptoms of ADHD
Although CBD oil may not be a viable form of treatment in itself for ADHD, it may be helpful in managing the symptoms experienced by many people who have been diagnosed with the condition.
One set of symptoms that many people with ADHD battle is related to anxiety. Some people who have been diagnosed with ADHD have anxiety and there is evidence that suggests that CBD oil has the ability to counteract anxiety symptoms. A 2016 case study backed claims made by researchers, asserting that CBD may prove to be helpful with sleep problems and anxiety in children. Additional research is necessary in order to determine this effect.
One 2013 study looked into the relationship between ADHD symptoms and the use of cannabis, finding that those with specific types of ADHD involving impulsivity and hyperactivity were more likely to employ cannabis on a daily basis for the management of their symptoms in comparison to those with inattentive subtypes of ADHD.
It remains unclear what actually causes this relief of symptoms. It also must be noted that this study focused solely on the entire cannabis plant rather than individual compounds, such as CBD. Additional research on CBD and ADHD alone may be helpful.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of CBD
CBD is not associated with many side effects, but for those who experience them, the reactions can vary. Some experience digestive issues, such as nausea or an upset stomach while others have reported headaches or drowsiness. Many of these cases are associated with higher doses of CBD, however. It has also been found that these side effects may dissipate over time when a person becomes more used to the product.
People who use CBD by way of inhalation through smoking or vaping might experience lung irritation.
Researchers have stated that the long-term potential side effects of CBD remain unknown. It is also not clear if CBD has an impact on hormones, which might be a concern for teens who are still developing. Further research is necessary to determine the impact CBD has in these areas.
How to Use CBD
CBD oil for ADHD can be used in a variety of different forms. It can be used in oil form, being rubbed into the skin or placed under the tongue by way of drops.
Some manufacturers create snacks and treats that are infused with CBD. Others may not like the flavor and opt for CBD capsules instead.
People who already smoke or vape often use CBD oil.
There not any specific guidelines to date regarding the effectiveness of CBD dosages, so it is best to begin with the lowest possible dosage and work one’s way up to treat symptoms.
Conclusion
Research remains limited regarding the impact of CBD on symptoms of ADHD. Further research remains necessary to determine whether CBD oil is a viable treatment option for ADHD. But CBD may help people to deal with ADHD symptoms. It is important that anybody considering using CBD oil for ADHD talk to their doctor or another medical professional. It is also important to be aware of CBD regulations in their area.
‘Many people opt to use ADHD as part of their treatment regimen.’
theres something off about that sentence…