Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD as it is more commonly referred to, is a chronic condition that can make even the simplest of tasks challenging. With common symptoms including difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, restlessness, and disorganization, it’s no wonder that many people with ADHD or parents of children with ADHD search high and low for ways to minimize this mental health disorder’s effects.
If you’ve heard some mumbles about CBD helping people cope with their ADHD and want to discover whether CBD really works for ADHD, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to get the answers to your burning questions.
What is CBD?
If you’re curious about trying CBD for ADHD, this lower dose CBD oil is a great product to start off with.
Short for cannabidiol, CBD is one of many chemical compounds found in the marijuana plant. As it doesn’t contain THC it’s therefore non-psychoactive, meaning that you won’t get the feeling of being ‘high’ from taking it. CBD products can be taken in a range of forms including CBD oils, capsules, and even gummies.
The reason why you may have heard a lot about CBD as of late is because it’s not only a key component of medical marijuana, but it’s also become an increasingly popular natural remedy for managing a variety of health problems. For example, it can help relieve back pain and can even give you a much-needed energy boost.
Why Do I Keep Hearing About CBD and ADHD?
As you’ll well be aware, managing ADHD can be a very delicate process that can involve much trial and error. Many people with ADHD and parents of children with ADHD are often on the lookout for alternative approaches to managing ADHD.
CBD has begun to receive its fair share of attention as a possible alternative approach for managing ADHD. The growing interest in CBD is primarily driven by the growing body of anecdotal evidence that it may help individuals to get a better handle of their ADHD symptoms.
For example, common feedback from individuals with ADHD who have experienced positive effects from using CBD include: “I was able to relax” and “I felt less manic.” Then again, there have been just as many people who experienced no changes whatsoever after taking CBD.
If you’re wondering why there’s little discussion about any clinical studies on the topic is because clinical research regarding the use of CBD for ADHD is still very much in its early stages.
What Does Research Say So Far?
Research into the matter of taking CBD for ADHD is still in its infancy. In fact, research has primarily focused on the use of cannabis to help with ADHD, as opposed to the use of CBD specifically. It’s therefore not possible at this point in time for researchers to say whether CBD can help with ADHD.
That being said, there have been some findings that may be indicative of the potential benefits of using cannabis for ADHD. For example, a study published in 2013 found that based on data analysis of 2811 cannabis users, a higher proportion of daily users reported hyperactive–impulsive symptoms when they were not using cannabis.
Another study published in 2017 noted that while its results were inconclusive, “Adults with ADHD may represent a subgroup of individuals who experience a reduction of symptoms and no cognitive impairments following cannabinoid use.” The researchers also noted that the study “provides preliminary evidence supporting the self-medication theory of cannabis use in ADHD” as well as the necessity for further studies on the matter.
Should I Try Taking CBD for ADHD?
As we have explored above, there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that while CBD may help some people with the ADHD, it may not be of help to others. Moreover, scientific research into the area is extremely lacking.
Considering the lack of conclusiveness about whether or not using CBD is beneficial for ADHD, you may be finding it difficult or confusing to assess if CBD will be worthwhile to try for yourself.
Ultimately, there is no ‘right’ answer to this question as using CBD for ADHD is a personal choice that will depend on each individual. However, we strongly recommend that you speak to your doctor first before trying CBD for ADHD. After all, it is considered best practice to always seek the advice of your doctor before modifying your ADHD treatment or management plan in anyway.
If you’ve already received the A-OK from your doctor, it may be best to ease into using CBD for ADHD by using a lower dose of CBD oil or beginning your journey with a CBD starter bundle. If you’re still umming and ahhing or need to consult your doctor, don’t forget to bookmark this page for future reference!
