Millions of children and adults have ADHD, and an overwhelming percentage of them are on at least one prescription medication to help manage the symptoms. The severity of ADHD symptoms someone experiences varies widely, but they can significantly impact daily life and amplify things like anxiety. Symptoms may include restlessness, inattention, anxiety, impulsivity, mood instability, trouble coping with stress, difficulty completing tasks, forgetfulness, hyperactivity, depression, and more. Unfortunately, many of the prescription medications used to treat ADHD (including stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants) have a host of undesirable side effects. These side effects leave many people searching for a more natural approach to treating symptoms of ADHD that have fewer side effects. If that is the case for you, the answer may be CBD.

CBD is one of hundreds of cannabinoid compounds found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects, so consumption of CBD will not get you ‘high.’ CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and may influence the nervous system and brain responses, including mood, memory, and pain.

Because CBD was not federally legalized until recently, there is very little formal research into the use of CBD for almost any condition. However, there is a CBD drug, Sativex, that has been FDA approved for use in the treatment of epilepsy. But, initial anecdotal reports and studies are showing promise in managing the symptoms of ADHD. In the research conducted for Sativex, it was found that CBD helped alleviate symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, specific research for the use of CBD to treat ADHD is still needed.