CBD is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. as more and more individuals discover this compound’s beneficial effects, and integrate CBD into their lives. With CBD helping treat insomnia, pain, and anxiety, among other ailments in adults, one may consider that perhaps these benefits could extend to children as well. According to JAMA Pediatrics, new studies have shown promising results from the treatment of various disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder using CBD. Some treatable conditions include insomnia, anxiety, hyperactivity, and possibly depression. Furthermore, according to the Child Mind Institute, the FDA recently approved a medication that contains CBD used in the treatment of epilepsy in patients who are at the very least two years old.
These findings are still quite new, and the possible adverse effects that CBD may have on the developing mind are still largely unknown. It is vital that those considering providing CBD to their children do so with great caution, and only when the severity of a given illness warrants this style of treatment. Individuals should also consider the legality of CBD and other low THC products in their area so that they can abide by the standards and regulations of their state. For an in-depth guide to the legal status of marijuana, check out this helpful list of cannabis laws state by state.
Types of CBD
1. Full Spectrum CBD Full spectrum CBD contains virtually all of the natural compounds found in cannabis except THC, which is kept to a minimum at around 0.3 percent. This lack of THC in full-spectrum CBD diminishes the psychoactive effects of marijuana, a factor that is important when considering use in children, while the abundance of natural compounds can help provide helpful, often relaxing effects.
2. Broad Spectrum CBD Broad-spectrum includes many of the natural compounds found in cannabis, but lacks the diversity of chemicals found in full-spectrum CBD. Broad-spectrum also tends to contain slightly more THC than full spectrum CBD, making this variety a less than ideal candidate for children.
3. CBD Isolate Isolate, as the name suggests, contains strictly CBD and no other compounds typically found in cannabis, and as a result, the effects of isolate are often limited. This diminished strength can be either a benefit, in that the mild effects can be helpful but not overwhelming for children, or a negative, as an isolate may not provide much of a helpful effect at all.
Conclusion
CBD has recently been found to offer significant relief in children who suffer from a variety of ailments that arise from being on the autistic spectrum including insomnia, anxiety, and hyperactivity, as well as providing treatment options for children suffering from epilepsy. Although these findings are promising, and CBD can offer meaningful relief to children who are suffering, it is vital that one exercises great caution when giving CBD to children, as the long-term effects of CBD on cognitive development are still unknown. By remaining aware of the differences between CBD products ranging from full spectrum to isolate, one can select the best possible treatment option for their child.