CBD oil is the latest cure-all formula to hit the market, touting all sorts of health benefits. In 2020 alone, Americans reportedly spent nearly $1.2 billion on CBD oil, and this number is expected to double to nearly $2 billion in 2022. Fad products tend to die out, but with a steady increase in sales, CBD oil is worth looking into, especially once you learn how it can benefit your child in a safe and healthy manner.
But First, What in the World Is It?
With all this talk about CBD (cannabidiol), you’re certainly wondering what it is. According to Live Science, CBD oil is the “concentrated liquid extract of the marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa.” In fact, CBD is just one of the many compounds the cannabis plant produces, but the two most people recognize are THC and CBD, both of which are cannabinoids.
So, why is CBD so popular? Your first concern may be that CBD oil is derived from marijuana, which will send up a red flag in your parental mind. Unlike THC, which provides that “high effect,” CBD oil doesn’t cause any such feelings, which is why it is a legal substance in most states as long as it doesn’t contain THC. While the choice to give your child CBD oil is yours, it is important to note that CBD oil is safe. The most commonly reported side effects are dry mouth, drowsiness, light-headedness, and low blood pressure, but this is often only reported in instances where CBD oil is given in extremely high doses.
What Are the Benefits?
CBD oil is a natural medical remedy that offers many benefits for those who use it, including children, according to research and studies cited by Healthline. For one, it can relieve the symptoms of anxiety and depression by helping to regulate mood and social behavior, potentially reducing the need for antidepressants. It’s also demonstrated effectiveness at dealing with muscle and joint pain. One study even showed great success in treating a child with anxiety and insomnia due to PTSD, enabling her to lower the number of pharmaceutical drugs she was taking, improve sleep quality, and experience fewer feelings of anxiety.
Yet another study worth noting is the use of CBD oil to successfully treat children with epileptic seizures. According to the research, nearly a third of those with epilepsy see no response from standard treatments, but one 12-week trial reported a 36.5 percent reduction in seizures, going from 30 per month to 15.8 per month. Furthermore, CBD oil has been linked with improved heart health and the ability to treat cancer side effects such as nausea and pain, making it a natural option worth exploring for not only your child but you as well.
Which CBD Product Is Best?
The most common method of ingestion is in liquid form, although soft gels are available too. However, it is important that you are aware of the difference between pure CBD oil and a CBD tincture/liquid. Pure CBD oil is unfiltered, containing only the plant-derived compounds and, therefore, a higher level of CBD. The downfall is that it has an earthy taste that many children will turn their noses at. It can be made to taste better by mixing it into yogurt, but your child may prefer CBD tinctures or liquids that are a mix of pure CBD oil and flavors such as mint, cinnamon, or citrus.
What Is the Best Dosage and Ingestion Method for Children?
Should you decide to give your child CBD oil, it is strongly encouraged that you talk with your child’s primary care provider to discuss questions, concerns, and opinions. However, the general consensus for dosage as it relates to children is 0.5 mg/pound/day divided into three doses. You should increase by no more than 0.5 mg per week until you see benefits.
The hard part will be determining the easiest way to encourage your child to ingest CBD oil. As noted above, CBD oil can have an unpleasant taste, and even the flavored tinctures can be hard to stomach due to the oily texture. For best absorption and a happy child, however, it is best to mix it with a portion of fatty food or liquid such as ice cream or milk for best absorption. Another method is to place the CBD oil drops on a small piece of chocolate that your child can suck on until it melts. If your child is old enough and comfortable swallowing a pill, you might consider CBD soft gels as an easy and quick method of ingestion.
As a parent, you are always looking for natural ways to help your child thrive and live as normal of a life as possible. If CBD oil could potentially be the relief your child needs, isn’t it worth looking into? Do your homework, talk with your child’s pediatrician, and make an informed decision—it just might be a life changer.
The CBD Reviewer is dedicated to providing our readers with only the best options out there when it comes to buying top-quality CBD oil products. Whether you are looking for pure CBD oil tinctures, pain relieving creams, oral supplements, or any other product – we analyze and compare some of the top options on the market to make sure you make a smart choice, and get better value for every dollar you spend on these products.
Kristina Shafarenko is a relationship and health and wellness psychologist and a part-time freelance lifestyle writer covering health and fitness, sex, sexual wellness, and relationships. When she’s not writing, you can find her planning her next getaway, taste-testing every coffee spot in sight, and lounging at home with her cat, Buddy.
