They say that children are the world’s future. And an even brighter future has been made possible by medical advancements and innovations. One of those breakthroughs is the growing popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) usage.

However, there are several debates and queries concerning its effectiveness and safety for users of all ages, especially children. The proper CBD dose for kids is among the primary concerns of parents since it has the potential to induce a ‘high sensation’, addiction, and exhibit harmful effects.

All About CBD

Many researchers and scientists have long been interested in the cannabis plant, particularly its subspecies: marijuana and hemp. Moreover, hemp is extensively used to make a variety of products, including what’s known as ‘medical marijuana.

Cannabidiol or CBD is marked as an essential component because of its non-psychoactive properties. In contrast, Tetrahydro cannabidiol (THC) is its counterpart component, giving you the 'high' feeling and mind-altering effects.

THC is eliminated through purification processes. However, a small concentration is added to some products to bring out the ‘entourage effect’. It’s described as having an enhanced effect due to the added compounds found in the hemp plant other than CBD alone.

Endocannabinoid System And CBD

In the 1940s, the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) was unearthed while studying THC and how it affects the human body. It regulates the cardiovascular, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. The ECS is also involved in the neurological processes of appetite, memory, pain perception, and stress.

Meanwhile, it’s been discovered that particular receptors and neurotransmitters work together to help different organs function efficiently. These receptors are found primarily in the central nervous system and in the peripheral nervous system.

On the other hand, when you exercise, complete tasks, achieve goals and pursue your dreams, these particular neurotransmitters multiply. They’ll make you feel determined, energetic, euphoric, focused, and inspired when they bind to receptors.

When CBD is taken, it mimics the neurotransmitters and adheres loosely to the receptors. As a result, CBD becomes beneficial and effective in alleviating symptoms, if not treating various conditions.

Here are the five things you must consider when using CBD for kids:

1. Seek Medical Advice

Before incorporating CBD into your child's daily routine, you must seek medical advice. The primary paediatrician or psychiatrist will conduct blood testing, physical assessment, and further examinations to ensure that your child's condition qualifies for a CBD prescription.

Other CBD products may not be used together with specific medications. The side effects can be fatal if the child isn’t consulted properly.




2. Forms Of CBD Products

There are different forms of CBD products on the market. These include:

  • Isolate CBD: The hemp plant undergoes a purification process and turns into a pure, crystalline powder containing only CBD molecules. It's guaranteed to have no mind-altering effects, making it the best choice for kids.
  • Broad-Spectrum CBD: It has no THC content. However, it contains cannabichromene (CBC), cannabinol (CBN), and terpenes.
  • Full-Spectrum CBD: This contains all components that give off an entourage effect. Look out for the ingredients before buying.

3. Benefits And Adverse Effects

CBD is used as an alternative medicine to alleviate symptoms. It’s also used to treat various conditions such as:
  • Anxiety
  • Arthritis
  • Chronic pain
  • Depression
  • Nausea
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Sleeping disorders
For children, evidence-based studies and clinical trials prove effective in:
  • Treating autism
  • Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
  • Anxiety
  • Epilepsy
Improvement in managing symptoms such as aggressive behaviour, insomnia, panic attacks, restlessness, and seizures is observed after using CBD products.

On the other hand, adverse effects are often mild and resolved shortly. Children may experience body weakness, diarrhoea, drowsiness, feeling thirsty, nausea, reduced appetite, and vomiting.

Overdose cases are rare, but they should be monitored closely, and immediate medical attention must be given if adverse effects worsen.

4. Types Of CBD Products

Since CBD products are typically odourless and tasteless, you can add CBD oils into the kids' food and drinks. They can also be in the form of edible gummies to enjoy more. Be creative and look for recipes and ways for your kids to take CBD.

Other CBD products include capsules, topical creams, lotions, sublingual sprays, tinctures, transdermal patches, and vaporizers.

5. Look For Certified Products

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) only approved Epidiolex, a CBD drug used to alleviate and treat seizures exhibited by patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.

All CBD products prescribed by physicians are guaranteed to be certified and safe. However, make sure you double-check the labels and instructions whenever you purchase something.

Look for products with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and approved by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

In Conclusion

CBD has been increasingly popular for alleviating and treating conditions of all ages. As a parent, you might feel anxious and worried about the myths about taking CBD. Some products guarantee no psychological effects, making them child-friendly.

Consult your paediatrician if you plan to incorporate CBD into your child's daily routine. Blood testing and further examinations are needed to ensure that the condition is qualified for treatment. Lastly, make sure you read the labels and instructions properly.