How CBD Improves ADHD and Minimizes Symptoms
From the point of diagnosis, people with ADHD are often prescribed medication. Some are lucky to find the right fit on the first try. Others have to go through several test periods and suffer both physical and mental side effects to find the best drugs for them.
As a parent with a child who has ADHD, this process can be challenging to watch. It often leaves parents feeling helpless. Teens and adults with ADHD will have to navigate everyday life with all the turmoil happening within. So while medication may be helpful, it doesn’t always feel that way. Thankfully, medicine is not the only clinically proven way to manage ADHD.
CBD (or cannabidiol) has also been proven to improve ADHD and minimize symptoms. It is one of the many compounds found in cannabis. Unlike its sibling, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not cause intoxication or a ‘high’ feeling. CBD provides several health benefits and has helped minimize symptoms for people with ADHD.
How CBD Works
Our bodies produce naturally occurring cannabis-like molecules called cannabinoids. They make up our endocannabinoid system, which is part of our natural regulatory system. This system is what carries messages around our bodies to help us maintain internal stability despite environmental changes (homeostasis).
When we ingest CBD, it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are responsible for receiving and transmitting these signals around the body. For some health symptoms (such as ADHD symptoms), the extra dose of cannabinoids from CBD products improves the performance of this natural regulatory system. Here are some research-based examples of those symptoms.
Impulsivity and hyperactivity
Both impulsivity and hyperactivity are common in people with ADHD. They are also difficult to control, even with the help of therapy. While therapists may not prescribe CBD, adults with ADHD have been self-medicating using CBD products. Two researchers decided to explore the results in these adults. During their study, adults with ADHD who use CBD products showed significant improvement in impulsivity and hyperactivity. They showed better inhibition and an increase in attention.
Anxiety and sleep problems
CBD products, especially oils, have been proven to improve anxiety and sleep problems in both adults and children. In this study, clinical data is presented to show that CBD oil is an effective treatment for reducing anxiety and getting better sleep. Many people with ADHD struggle with settling down each night and enjoying a full night’s rest. CBD oil could be useful in alleviating this issue.
Depression
People with ADHD are often diagnosed with depression. Experts say that more than half of the people with ADHD will be treated for depression at some point in their lives. This study suggests that CBD offers an antidepressant-like effect on patients. Of course, the word ‘like’ is attached because CBD is not regarded as a drug yet. The researcher also suggests that CBD should be explored for treating symptoms such as helplessness, which is a significant issue for many people with ADHD.
Research on CBD is still ongoing, and we may never learn of its full potential for human health. However, there is enough evidence (and testimonials) to prove that using CBD products helps minimize ADHD symptoms. If you’re looking for a safe and natural remedy, explore our recommended CBD brands and product lists.