Autism is often displayed visually as puzzle pieces. It really is a jigsaw puzzle because of the varying spectrums and differences in symptoms from person to person. Adolescents with autism are often prescribed heavy prescription medication that many parents say leaves their children in a "zombie-like" state. Many families are trying hemp CBD oil as a treatment option with positive results. For some families, non-verbal children have found their voices and words.
The guide below will discuss how hemp CBD oil may be beneficial for reducing some, and in some cases all, of the symptoms of autism.
Behavioral Outbursts
Behavioral difficulties are common in autism. Sometimes it's just because the words to express a thought or feeling just don't come. Sometimes it might be a show of anger from being bullied. Bullying of autistic children, and even autistic adults, is common because they're different. It often causes depression, sudden behavioral changes, sudden mood swings or other behavioral issues.
The last thing that some families want is to put their child on another medication to even out moods and balance emotions. Hemp CBD oil may help even out an autistic person's mood, help them feel happy and stop the sudden fluctuations in temperament. It may provide the calming effect that those with autism often lack - the ability to be calm during periods of frustration, rejection and other situations.
Extreme behavioral outbursts like self-harming or destructive behavior are often difficult to stop. Some parents have to hold their children tightly during these outbursts to keep them safe and stop them from hurting themselves or others. It's not something that can be controlled.
Parents have used hemp CBD oil via syringe, capsule and vaporizer with their children and have noticed a change in mood and/or behavior within minutes. The cannabidiol (CBD) helps calm the central nervous system and allows the endocannabinoid system to be regulated.
Depression
Depression is also a common symptom of autism. In social settings, and even at home, those with autism just know that they are different and may not understand why. Bullying, name-calling, and being left out of activities affects autistic children frequently. Some aren't able to be as physically active as "normal" children are and may not speak as clearly as others.
Speech impediments also lead to name calling and bullying - only adding to the depression.
There are multiple reasons for someone with autism to experience depression, but hemp CBD oil or other hemp CBD products may help bring those feelings of happiness and joy back. CBD is known to help improve moods and reduce depression.
Endocannabinoid System
All mammals have an endocannabinoid system. It wasn't discovered until the late 1980s due to restrictions in researching cannabis and hemp-related products. The endocannabinoid system is associated with the central nervous system - which sends signals to most major systems in the body. Sometimes an imbalance occurs in which the endocannabinoid system is lacking cannabinoids. It can't send the proper signals if it's not in a healthy state.
Signals can be crossed or sent backwards that lead to agitation instead of an expected reaction. It can make it difficult for the brain to think clearly, process information or even function when there is a "misfire" in the brain.
By introducing natural hemp CBD oil or other hemp CBD products into the body, it can help the body fix itself.
Endocannabinoid System
Consider the endocannabinoid system the bridge connecting the mind and body. When a piece is broken or missing, it throws off the entire bridge's stability.
Both the central and peripheral nervous systems receive their signals from receptors that are included in the endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabinoid system aids in regulating:
Mood
Appetite
Sleep
Motor control
Pain
Memory
Reproduction/fertility
Immune function
Pleasure/reward
When cannabinoids are naturally lacking, signals may not be sent at all, so all of these pieces to a body's puzzle can become jumbled, misplaced or lost. If a part of the body doesn't get the message it can't complete a process. Endocannabinoids help the body maintain an optimal balance (homeostasis).
When the balance is off, it may not just be one puzzle piece that doesn't fit anymore. It could be several or the whole puzzle may fall apart in a complete meltdown.
Omega-3 fatty acids do help your body produce natural endocannabinoids. But, with autism, eating foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids may not be an option. Those with autism tend to be very picky eaters. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements may not provide enough to supplement the deficiency but cannabinoids like cannabidiol get the body to make up what's lacking.
Dosages of cannabinoids will vary and it will take a bit of trial and error to find the right balance. But, cannabidiol won't make anyone "stoned" or unable to think/function. It's non-psychoactive.
Suggestions for Trying Hemp CBD for Autism
There are several hemp CBD products available. Capsules are one option and often come in a 25mg dose. For milder cases of autism, this may be sufficient in a single daily dose. More severe cases may require two doses a day. It is always suggested to speak with your family physician first to discuss a proper initial approach.
Hemp CBD oil is sometimes available in vape form but is more commonly used via syringe as a sublingual application. Some suggest starting with a small, 10mg dose. Oil is more concentrated so a 10mg dose doesn't seem like a lot but it often contains more cannabinoids. You may need to administer more than one 10mg dose daily to help reduce symptoms related to autism.
In the most severe cases of autism, CBD may not be enough. THC may also be needed. This, again, requires a little trial and error. Start with just a single milligram of THC with a typical dose of hemp CBD oil. The "entourage effect" may be required to help the autistic person in your life benefit the most. It may help them feel "normal" and function normally. If a 1-mg dose of THC with CBD oil isn't effective enough, increase the THC by only a milligram at a time.
Closing Thoughts
Caring for people with autism is often a full-time job. It can be stressful on a family. It is important to know that there are other options that may be as effective or more effective than pharmaceuticals. Pharmaceuticals don't work for everyone, some with autism are resistant to pharmaceuticals so, a natural option like hemp CBD may produce better results. It's natural and the endocannabinoid system may need a little natural help to regulate itself properly from time-to-time.
