Do CBD Oils Work for Children with Autism?

Researchers have only just begun to understand the basics of what causes autism. They have noted that genetics and genetic mutations seem to be the main culprits for autism in children. Although the information on this genetic disorder is scarce, researchers are aware of the significant rise in autism stats over the last decade, with numbers almost doubling in the previous two decades.

Autism shows through in children in different ways, whether in their cognitive development, social skills, behavior, or motor skills. As a parent of a child with autism, it can be frustrating as you want to help your child, but you do not always have the right tools or guidance to help them.

it is a challenge, raising a child with autism can become more manageable, especially as you begin to understand your child deeper. That is when you can start to figure out the best medication, therapy, or other tools to assist your child and help them thrive. The natural remedy known as CBD is one way you can help your child lead a serener life. CBD provides various benefits to users, and it may be the answer you have been looking for.

The Science Behind CBD

Cannabinol (CBD) is a natural compound found in the Cannabis Sativa plant species. It may strike you as shocking to consider giving a cannabis product to a child. However, CBD is different because it will not make you high. Hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3 percent THC is a non-intoxicating psychoactive that cannot cause increased paranoia, and there is no risk of overdose either.

Research on CBD is in its infancy, but early data shows this cannabinoid’s potential to treat various physical and mental ailments. Users opt for CBD to treat chronic pain, anxiety and depression symptoms, infertility, etc. CBD promotes change through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The latter is a biological system that manages appetite, temperature, mood, and similar functions in the body to keep it in optimal balance. The ECS sends messages to its receptors located in the mind and body to do its job, and CBD signals to these receptors to trigger change.

Promising preliminary results and CBD’s legality in various countries worldwide are two primary reasons why even former skeptics are opting to try CBD as a natural remedy. CBD is oil in its raw form, but you can find CBD infused in various formats, from edibles to topical creams, vape liquids, and skincare products.

A quick search online for CBD oil will deliver a significant list of premium brands that offer high-quality CBD that can be delivered to your door. Technology, including efficient apps and blockchain technology, makes it a safer and more accessible process for anyone to buy this natural compound.

Is CBD safe for Children with Autism?

Trying CBD as an adult is one thing, but administering it to your child is another matter. It is critical to understand that the body of research on CBD is limited. Researchers need more time and studies to understand CBD’s impact in the long run, especially on children.

However, giving children CBD is not a foreign concept in the medical world. Recently, the FDA approved the first-ever CBD-based drug known as Epidiolex. This drug is for children as young as two years old who suffer from rare forms of epilepsy, namely Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet’s syndrome. To date, preliminary studies indicate encouraging results for children with autism.

In one 2018 study, 60 children with autism were given CBD doses for researchers to observe changes in communication and social and behavioral problems. The results proved that CBD oil eased issues related to autism. There was another small study in 2019 where patients with autism took CBD. Out of 15, 11 patients showed improvement in several aspects, including motor deficits, ADHD, behavioral disorders, and communication issues, when they took CBD for nine months.

Issues to Consider Before Giving your Child CBD

Although early research is encouraging, you must consider essential points before giving your child CBD. It is essential to note that not all CBD products on the market are lab tested. So, while some products may contain pure CBD, others may contain other ingredients that could be harmful to your child.

Moreover, the dose varies from one CBD brand to the other. Your child may need one drop of CBD oil from one brand but would require two or more drops when it is a different brand. The side effects of CBD could bring discomfort to your child too.

Although researchers have not observed any harmful side effects, some people have experienced drowsiness, nausea, and diarrhea after taking CBD. Dry lips are a common side effect too. CBD can also alter the work of other medications your child may be taking. It can block the work of particular medicine in the body, proving to be harmful if that medicine stops working.

Before Administering CBD to your Child

If you believe that CBD is the right medicinal tool to assist your child with autism, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor who is familiar with your child’s history. A medical professional, incredibly proficient in CBD, can guide you into the correct dose and brands to give your children. More than that, your doctor can monitor your child’s progress, and together you can discuss if CBD is helping or inhibiting your child.