Giving CBD To Kids: Things To Know
More people worldwide are seeing the benefits of consuming cannabidiol (CBD) daily. It aids in the treatment of common ailments like migraines and chronic pain. Some swear by its positive effects that they also incorporate CBD in their children’s lives.
Giving CBD to kids can’t be done on a whim. Even if you don’t need a doctor’s prescription to buy CBD products, you must know a few things before letting children use it as their daily supplement. Keep reading to learn the necessary information on CBD for children.
- Correct Dose
Children are more sensitive the younger they are. So, they must always take the correct dose for any over-the-counter (OTC) or prescribed medication. But a question parents might have is how much CBD should you give to kids? Each child may have different prescriptions. So, if your kid has epilepsy, a doctor might suggest a higher dose than for a healthy child.
If you plan to administer CBD to your child, consult the pediatrician first. The doctor may recommend a 0.5mg dose per pound of your child’s body weight. You might also need to split the dosage three times daily, preferably during mealtimes.
You can lessen the amount if you’re worried about your child’s reactions. Observe them each time you give CBD. If there are no adverse effects, you can administer the original prescribed amount and increase that with medical supervision.
- CBD Myths
It’s a common misconception that CBD can make you high as it comes from cannabis plants. But CBD comes from medical marijuana and doesn’t contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical that causes the high. If there are trace amounts in a product, it’s low enough not to make your child feel high.
Some people who take CBD regularly might also claim it has no side effects. This statement is untrue. Any medication has side effects when irresponsibly consumed. So, you must follow the pediatrician’s advice on CBD dosage to avoid possible adverse reactions.
Another myth is that CBD is a cure-all, especially for mental issues. While many people can vouch for its benefits, there’s still much research needed to prove its efficacy. It may treat some acute and chronic ailments, but it’s not yet a remedy in itself.
- Forms Of CBD
Cannabidiol comes in different forms. You can even find cosmetics and bath products with CBD as an ingredient. But people usually use CBD as edibles. It’s easier to consume daily, and kids might like it, too. Other options are topical CBD for external issues, like skin infections.
Gummies
Children often have sensitive tongues. They may initially dislike taking CBD for its bitter, earthy, grassy taste. So, you can introduce your kid to CBD gummies as some brands offer them in sweet, fruity flavors most children enjoy. Each gummy contains around 5mg of CBD, which is the standard dose for gummies. If you opt for this type for your child, ensure it’s out of their reach. They must only consume a limited, prescribed amount each day.
Cookies
Cookies are edible alternatives kids will love. The best part is that you can bake them at home. Add your child’s prescribed dosage in your favorite recipe’s batter and bake as many cookies as you want. They won’t even know there’s CBD in it as the other flavors will overpower it.
Oil or tinctures
If your child doesn’t mind the taste of CBD oil, you can administer it to them straight from the bottle. Use a pediatric measuring device like a feeding syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. That way, you can always give them the correct dose.
You could also apply it topically on their skin. Dosages for topical application may be different from consumption. Consult a pediatrician before using the oil directly on your child’s skin, especially on external wounds.
Lotions or creams
Now, CBD lotions are topical products you can apply to your child’s body. They’re thicker than oils and may not be as potent. Children and adults shouldn’t consume them orally as CBD lotions include other ingredients that may pose risks.
Depending on your child’s needs, you can choose one of these CBD forms for daily use. Seek the advice of a doctor for the best option for your kid.
- Benefits Of CBD For Children
Moreover, CBD can be used to treat particular mental concerns. Children with behavioral issues from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism may find benefits from using CBD. Some research shows that it can reduce feelings of anxiety and irritability, which are common among kids with autism or ADHD. There are no approved therapeutic claims yet, but many agree that it aids in toning down these issues.
Aside from that, people use CBD for pain relief. If your child has had surgery, they may find comfort by taking a prescribed dose daily. Parents might also give their children CBD to treat epileptic seizures. But as mentioned, more research is needed to prove its positive effects.
- Risks Of Consuming CBD
Taking CBD isn’t always safe. Like OTC and prescription medicines, overdosing and improper consumption can happen. It may lead to adverse effects when consumed along with other medications. A child might have a reduced appetite, experience diarrhea, or feel constant fatigue. The worst side effects include organ damage like liver harm.
Some CBD products don’t indicate the exact amount of the substance. So, your child must always consume the prescribed dosage. Avoid increasing the dose without a doctor’s permission.
Conclusion
While deemed safe for children, CBD still needs to be taken in limited amounts. They may consume it as often as required upon the advice of their pediatrician.
In spite of the benefits, CBD isn’t a magical elixir. Medical experts continuously research its properties and effects to this day.
