Safe to Give CBD to Children?

CBD is rapidly growing in popularity due to the many useful purposes such as helping to treat chronic pain, anxiety, ADHD, autism and cancer. But, with the massive growth in use, we have to ask: is it safe to give to kids?

There is not much research on the safety, applied uses or how well it works, especially for children. There is one FDA approved marijuana derived medication called Epidiolex that is used to treat a rare form of epilepsy. However, CBD is often confused with marijuana, which is primarily composed of the highly psychoactive compound: THC. For this article, we will be specifically looking at the cannabinoid: CBD, to discuss the benefits, possible uses and safety of giving CBD to children.

If you want to learn more about the public opinion about giving CBD to Children, then visit our blog post on: Parent’s Opinion on CBD for Children, which reviews the findings of the Mott Poll covering Parent's Perspective on CBD use in Children.

Is it safe to give my child CBD?

This is a challenging question to answer because there has not been much research on CBD and even less research has been focused on children. CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound derived from the cannabis plant that has become increasingly popular due to its potential health benefits. It is being used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. Many parents are now wondering if CBD is safe for their children. The short answer is yes, CBD is generally considered safe for children.*  However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind that we need to cover. We want to present as much information as possible so that parents can make an INFORMED decision on administering CBD to their children. 

What Parent need to know about giving CBD to Children 

As parents our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our children therefore we will cover the safety concerns to keep in mind when deciding if giving your child CBD is a good idea. 

Consider the Safety of CBD Product Quality

CBD is not regulated by the FDA, meaning the quality and potency of CBD products can vary greatly. It’s important to make sure you are purchasing quality CBD products from a reputable source. SOCIETY’s Plant products are always lab tested to ensure the product’s ingredients and potency meet our high standards.

CBD Oil Dosage for Kids

It is important to consider the child’s age and weight when determining how much CBD to give. Children may require smaller doses than adults, and the amount should be adjusted according to the weight of the child. It’s also important to start with smaller doses and increase gradually as needed. Finally, it’s important to note that CBD can interact with other medications, so it’s important to talk to your child’s doctor before giving them CBD, IF they are on any medications. It’s also important to talk to your child about the potential side effects of CBD, such as feeling tired and dry mouth.

Reasons Parents may try CBD Therapy for their Kids 

CBD Anxiety Treatment for Children

There are many potential benefits of using CBD for anxiety treatment in children. CBD has been found to reduce anxiety by modulating serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain.* For some people it can help to reduce stress and improve sleep, both of which can improve overall mental health. CBD does not have the same side effects of traditional anti-anxiety medications. This is especially beneficial for children, who may experience more severe side effects from traditional medications.

 

It is important to note that CBD is not a “cure-all” for anxiety. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and lifestyle modifications. 

CBD has been shown to be a promising treatment for anxiety in children, but more research is needed to understand its full potential. 

Overcoming Adolescent Sleep Problems with CBD

CBD has become a popular natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, but great success has been found in helping with sleep problems in both adults and children. CBD has been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety and stress levels and make it easier to relax and fall asleep. CBD may also help to reduce inflammation, which can help improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.*  We have also heard of parents having great success using CBD to help their children to stay asleep and overcome night terrors.  CBD can help to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, as well as reduce the amount of time spent awake during the night.* For children with sleep problems, CBD might be a great option. It is non-addictive, and unlike other medications it does not have any serious side effects. CBD can be a great addition to a child’s sleeping routine, helping to regulate their sleep-wake cycle and improve their overall quality of sleep.*

CBD for Kids with ADHD

Let’s explore the potential for using CBD to alleviate symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids, or chemical compounds, found in the cannabis plant, and while it does not produce the psychoactive effects that THC does, it is believed to have various therapeutic benefits. Research into the use of CBD for ADHD is still in its early stages, but there is evidence to suggest that it may be effective in treating the condition.*

 ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by difficulty concentrating, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. These symptoms can interfere with a person’s ability to function in daily life and can lead to academic, social, and occupational deficits. Traditional treatments for ADHD, including stimulant prescription medications and psychotherapy, can be effective, but they come with the potential for side effects and long-term risks. As such, many people are looking for alternative treatments, such as CBD, to manage their symptoms.  This WebMD article takes a look at the safety of giving your child CBD to reduce symptoms of ADHD.  For example, one study found that CBD was associated with a reduction in hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention in children and adolescents with ADHD. Another study found that CBD was associated with a reduction in hyperactivity and restlessness in adults with ADHD. Furthermore, CBD appears to be well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. While there is promising evidence to suggest that CBD may be an effective treatment for ADHD, more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. It is important to note that CBD is not approved by the FDA as a treatment for ADHD, and as such, it should not be used as a substitute for traditional treatments. Additionally, CBD products are not regulated by the FDA, so it is important to purchase CBD products from a reputable source. In conclusion, while the research into the use of CBD for ADHD is still in its early stages, there is evidence to suggest that it may be an effective treatment option. It is important to note, however, that CBD is not approved as a treatment for ADHD and should not be used as a substitute for traditional treatments. Additionally, it is important to purchase CBD products from a reputable source. 

CBD for Children on the Autism Spectrum 

CBD has recently been the focus of much research due to its potential to treat autism. Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. Autism is still not fully understood, but it is known to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. CBD has been found to have a variety of potential benefits for people with autism, as well as for the adults who care for them, including reducing anxiety and improving social interaction. CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is a network of receptors found throughout the body. It is believed that CBD can help to reduce the symptoms of autism by targeting the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating mood, emotions, and behavior. Studies have shown that CBD can reduce hyperactivity and restlessness, improve communication and social skills, and reduce aggression and irritability. * It has also been found to have a calming effect on people with autism, which can help reduce anxiety levels and improve their overall quality of life.* 

CBD has been found to reduce the frequency and intensity of meltdowns and tantrums, as well as improve communication and social skills in those with autism. * 

Although the research into the use of CBD for autism is still in its early stages, the results so far are promising. More research is needed to determine its effectiveness, many parents are already using CBD to help their children with autism. CBD is available in various forms, including RAW CBD+CBDA tinctures, softgels/capsules, and in gummy edibles. 

It is important to keep in mind that CBD is not an FDA-approved treatment for autism and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Although more research is needed to determine its efficacy, the current evidence suggests that it may help reduce symptoms and improve social interaction and communication. 

Buy SOCIETY’s Plant CBD Products to Give to Your Children

We want to make sure you are choosing the right product for your family, so here are a few recommendations to help you in making your purchasing decisions. 

Magical Plant Salve

The safest and most non-disputed of all forms of CBD to give to children, the one that is most comfortable for parents are topicals. Since the CBD is only applied on the skin it does not enter the digestive tract or the blood system, the risk feels the lowest and therefore more parents are inclined to use a topical on their child than products that are ingested. SOCIETY’s Magical Plant Salve is pretty magical on bumps, bruises and skin issues. 

SOCIETY’s Raw CBDA Tincture or Softgels

CBDA is the raw form of hemp that is the original structure of the cannabinoid before it is heated and turned into CBD. We have more details on CBDA in the blog: CBDA vs. CBD but in summary, CBDA is more than 8x more bioavailable for absorption into the body versus CBD. RAW CBDA comes in a RAW Tincture or RAW Soft gels. It is important to note that CBDA is non-psychoactive therefore this is a safe bet for the benefits of CBDA without any psychoactive effects. 

SOCIETY’s DREAM Mushroom CBD Tincture

For those with sleep problems SOCIETY’s DREAM Mushroom Enhanced CBD Tincture is a great solution for those having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep. *  There is 0% THC in this tincture and the functional mushrooms add another level of plant-based wellness. Know Mommy has experienced great benefits from using this tincture with her son who is on the autism spectrum. 

SOCIETY’s CHILL Mushroom CBD Tincture

This is a go to product for those with anxiety and the delicious formulation makes it an easy one for kids to supplement with. SOCIETY’s Plant CHILL Mushroom Enhanced CBD tincture with 0% THC and a blend of herbs and mushrooms can be helpful for a child to mellow out and possibly improve focus for children with ADHD. *

SOCIETY’s Full Spectrum CBD Gummies 

Some children prefer to chew their supplements, in which case the best option would be SOCIETY’s Plant CBD Gummies. These 25mg CBD gummies are often a fan favorite for easy consumption and great impact, being a straight CBD edible solution.  

Is CBD Safe for Children? 

This really comes down to a parent’s decision on what they are using the CBD to help their child with.  Some people might need to use this as an everyday supplement, while others only use it when in need, in place of a medication, Tylenol or Advil. Being cognizant that we are a purveyor of CBD products, we would like to leave you with one more resource to get another opinion on giving your child CBD. The article: CBD - What Parents Need to Know by Child Mind, gives a very comprehensive explanation with many doctors’ opinions, as well.  

With the proper precautions, CBD can be a safe and effective treatment option for children.  However, it’s important to purchase quality products from a reputable source, start with small doses, and talk to your child’s doctor before giving them CBD if they are on any medications.  

 

FDA Disclaimer: Do not use these products to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The statements made about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and their efficacy has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. The information presented here is not intended as a substitute or alternative to information from health care practitioners.  Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.