CBD Oil for Autism: Can It Help? – Healthline

ASD describes a group of neurodevelopmental conditions. There are five subtypes identified in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a guide published by the American Psychiatric Association.

ASD is diagnosed more often in boys than in girls, and instances of ASD may be increasing. Symptoms usually present early, between 12 and 24 months, but they can also begin to appear earlier or later in life.

The DSM-5 classifies symptoms of ASD into two categories:

A diagnosis of autism happens when a person displays all three symptoms from the first category and at least two from the second.

CBD is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant. Its associated with health benefits, such as pain relief, improved sleep, and relief from anxiety disorders and addiction.

There are three types of CBD:

You can find CBD in a range of products:

At this time, research is limited about the benefits of CBD for autism.

A 2018 study found that CBD oil may be effective in improving ASD symptoms in children, but the study advised that efficacy and safety should be further evaluated with large-scale clinical trials.

A smaller 2019 study looked at the effects of CBD for the treatment of autism symptoms in people with epilepsy. The study found improvement in all but one of the 15 people undergoing treatment.

Another 2019 study of 188 autistic people concluded that cannabis seems to be well tolerated, safe, and effective for symptom relief.

Finally, a 2020 study reviewed the therapeutic role of CBD in mental health, including as a treatment for ASD. It described CBD and CBD-containing compounds as helpful in alleviating symptoms.

Ongoing trials are currently investigating whether CBD has an impact on behaviors sometimes associated with ASD, including irritability and aggressive behavior, and whether it might reduce severe behavior problems in autistic children.

In general, the effectiveness of CBD may depend on the type. Some research suggests that taking THC and CBD together, along with other compounds in the cannabis plant, is more effective than using either cannabinoid alone. This theory is called the entourage effect.

Remember, a full-spectrum CBD product retains all the components of the plant and up to 0.3 percent THC. Thats not enough to feel high, but it could amplify the benefits of CBD.

While the current research is promising, theres still not enough evidence to conclude that CBD is definitely helpful for ASD.

Keep in mind that CBD is not a cure-all, and that there are currently no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved over-the-counter CBD products.

CBD interacts with the bodys endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is active whether you use cannabis or not, and it plays a role in regulating internal processes, like mood, sleep, metabolism, and immune response.

The system has three parts:

While THC can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors to stimulate a range of effects, CBD interacts with the ECS differently. Instead of binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors, its thought that CBD may prevent endocannabinoids from being broken down, which means they have a greater effect on the body.

Another theory is that CBD binds to a receptor that hasnt yet been discovered.

The FDA recognizes the potential benefits of CBD, but notes that more research is needed.

The FDA has only approved a single prescription CBD medication (Epidiolex), which is for the treatment of epilepsy. No over-the-counter (OTC) CBD products have been approved.

In an assessment on CBD, the World Health Organization notes that its generally well tolerated and has a good safety profile, with no effects indicative of potential for abuse or dependence.

Still, there are potential side effects. These can include:

CBD can also interact with some medications. To avoid potential issues, its important to speak with your doctor before trying CBD.

This is particularly true if youre considering CBD for your child, as they may react differently to the compound than adults do.

Since the FDA doesnt guarantee that OTC CBD products are safe or effective, consumers must be responsible for shopping wisely.

Use these tips to find reputable brands and high quality CBD products:

While theres no cure for ASD, there are therapies and treatments that can help address certain symptoms. These include:

Although they arent effective for everyone, there are also tools and techniques that may also be helpful, like:

While there isnt a single diet that autistic people should follow, some advocates find that a specific approach to nutrition can help minimize behavioral issues. The focus is on a whole-foods diet, with no preservatives, sweeteners, or colors.

While more research is needed to verify whether or not CBD is effective for managing symptoms of ASD, early results are promising.

If this is something youre considering, the best way to get more information about next steps is to talk with a healthcare professional.

Is CBD Legal? Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level, but are still illegal under some state laws. Marijuana-derived CBD products are illegal on the federal level, but are legal under some state laws. Check your states laws and those of anywhere you travel. Keep in mind that nonprescription CBD products are not FDA-approved, and may be inaccurately labeled.

Jessica Timmons has been working as a freelance writer since 2007, covering everything from pregnancy and parenting to cannabis, chiropractic, stand-up paddling, fitness, martial arts, home decor, and much more. Her work has appeared in mindbodygreen, Pregnancy & Newborn, Modern Parents Messy Kids, and Coffee + Crumbs. See what shes up to now at jessicatimmons.com.

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CBD Oil for Autism: Can It Help? - Healthline