CBD oil for ADHD

CBD oil is popular for its far-reaching therapeutic benefits, but what about its effects on ADHD? CBD oil, which contains the CBD cannabinoid and is derived from the cannabis plant, is often used to help many mental and physical ailments. Because of its versatility, CBD is often subjected to in-depth research. Although CBD oil research shows positive results in alleviating many symptoms of ADHD, of course more studies are still needed to determine if it can be a viable treatment option.

CBD and ADHD research

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a fairly common condition that affects children and adults from all walks of life. Symptoms, including difficulty paying attention and impulsivity, often start in childhood and can contribute to problems at school or work, low self-esteem and strained relationships later in life, and treatment for ADHD often includes strong medication and therapy. Natural options like CBD are of interest to many people due to their gentle but effective nature. Most of the research investigating the relationship between CBD and ADHD is still in the early stages (1). So far, claims that have been made involve the whole cannabis plant rather than just isolating the CBD cannabinoid. More randomized clinical trials targeting ADHD patients with pure CBD oil or isolate are still needed before researchers can make conclusive claims. However, the early studies are proving to be extremely promising. A recent study looked at cannabis use in participants, where researchers found that individuals were more likely to report hyperactivity or impulsivity when not taking cannabis (2). Similarly, a 2017 trial looked at adults with ADHD treated with Sativex, a medication that contains CBD and THC cannabinoids. While the improvements were minimal, a minor reduction in ADHD symptoms was also reported here (3).

Can CBD help manage ADHD symptoms?

While CBD may still have a ways to go before it is considered a potential ADHD treatment option, CBD oil may help alleviate some common symptoms associated with ADHD. There are many common cognitive symptoms of ADHD, such as low focus, poor concentration and short attention spans. High levels of anxiety and depression are also associated with many ADHD patients. CBD may aid mental clarity by interacting with specific brain receptors, improving concentration levels during work, school or otherwise (4). CBD oil in particular can relieve anxiety and stress. Anxiety and stress make us have lower energy levels and feel more tired, which ultimately leads to poor focus and concentration.

Anxiety

There is good and promising research into CBD's role in anxiety and depression. In a 2015 review, researchers state that CBD could interact with cannabinoid and serotonin receptors in the brain that regulate anxiety-related behavior. The researchers found evidence that CBD could be an effective treatment for many different types of anxiety, including panic disorder and social anxiety (5). A similar review conducted in 2020 looked at eight studies that examined CBD's role in helping various forms of anxiety. Researchers found that CBD is an effective complementary treatment option alongside traditional medicine to alleviate various symptoms (6). However, many researchers still conclude that more large-scale clinical trials are needed before establishing CBD therapy (7).

How CBD oil works against ADHD

CBD interacts in the body in several ways, and studies have continuously pointed out the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in influencing brain responses such as mood, memory and pain. Cannabinoids like CBD can interact with ECS receptors throughout the brain and nervous system to regulate many body processes, including stabilizing energy levels, reducing hyperactivity, and improving focus (8). Studies have also shown that CBD can interact with serotonin receptors, and animal studies have shown that CBD is effective at activating multiple serotonin receptor types at once in the brain (9), allowing higher concentrations of the “happy hormone,” serotonin, to be expressed.

CBD oil for children with ADHD

Research examining CBD and children with ADHD is minimal due to the stigma surrounding marijuana use, unfortunately. However, more and more studies are beginning to be conducted as gentler treatment options with fewer side effects increase in popularity for children. This has been conducted with Epidiolex, a CBD-based anti-epilepsy medication commonly used in children (10). Most CBD research done with children involves case studies, like this 2015 report in which parents completed an online poll about whether they safely administer CBD products to their children. The reported benefits include improvements in sleep, alertness, and overall mood (11). As no clinical trials involving children with ADHD and CBD have yet been carried out, we recommend that you talk to your doctor if you want to try CBD oil for your child.

Dosage of CBD oil

There are many factors that come into play when talking about children and the use of CBD oil. Therefore, your child's correct dose will include be determined by their age, weight and severity of symptoms. As a rough guideline, around 2.5 to 10 mg daily is recommended for optimal effect for children. Since the taste of CBD oil can have an earthy and grassy taste, many parents choose to give their children CBD gum instead. However, if CBD oil is best for their needs, try putting the oil in a cup of tea, a smoothie, juice or soup. A good way to do this is by measuring the CBD oil beforehand to ensure the correct amount is given and then giving it to them at mealtimes.

Safety and side effects of CBD oil

While CBD oil is generally very well tolerated, minimal side effects can occur, which are most often seen in first-time users. These are rare but may include:

• Changes in appetite

• Changes in bowel movements

• Headache

• Fatigue and drowsiness

• Nausea

  CBD can also interact with the metabolism of certain medications (12), so please talk to your doctor if you are concerned about this or any of the above side effects. CBD oil differs from cannabis as it lacks the THC compound, which is the part of the plant that causes psychoactive effects. However, lower quality CBD oils or CBD products that have not been properly tested may contain trace amounts of THC, so it is important to choose a CBD oil from a reputable company. You can read more here about how we quality test our CBD oils and ensure that we only deliver premium CBD oils.