Can CBD Target Hyperactivity?

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Cannabidiol (CBD) has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in the area of managing symptoms of the hyperactivity associated with conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 

Studies have shown that CBD may positively impact symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity in children with ADHD, improving social interactions, and reducing anxiety in children with ASD. While research is still ongoing, and more studies are needed to understand CBD's full potential, it's becoming clear that this non-psychoactive compound may hold great promise as a natural option for those struggling with hyperactivity.

What causes hyperactivity? 

First, let’s clarify – Hyperactivity is simply a description of behavior and not a disorder itself.¹ The term typically describes people who move, fidget, talk, or interrupt more often than usual. Hyperactive behavior includes being easily distracted, impulsive, unfocused, unusually assertive, or constantly in motion. Often, children display hyperactive behaviors since they have excess energy that needs to be channeled more appropriately.

Adults may also display hyperactivity, though it's noticed less often since adults have more autonomy over their day-to-day life than children. For adults, hyperactivity is more commonly associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or attention deficit disorder (ADD). In some cases, adults and children on the autism spectrum may display hyperactive behaviors due to their tendencies to self-stimulate. Medications, physical, or mental illnesses may also cause hyperactivity. 

Hyperactive tendencies may also be the result of a chaotic lifestyle. For example, children and adults in stressful home or work environments may be more likely to display aggression or impulsivity commonly associated with hyperactivity. Some studies also suggest that diet may contribute to hyperactive behaviors and poor sleeping habits.²⁻³

What is CBD, and how does it work?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp. Unlike the well-known compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce the "high" commonly associated with cannabis use. Instead, CBD works with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to potentially provide various therapeutic benefits.⁴ 

The ECS is a complex network of receptors and chemicals that help regulate a wide range of bodily functions, including mood, pain, appetite, sleep, and immune response. CBD works by interacting with the ECS to potentially help balance these functions and promote homeostasis in the body.

One of the ways CBD interacts with the ECS is by interacting with the receptors CB1 and CB2. These receptors are found throughout the body and play a role in regulating different physiological processes. By binding to these receptors, CBD may help modulate the ECS's activity and potentially provide a number of therapeutic benefits.

CBD may also help increase the levels of the body's naturally-produced endocannabinoids, molecules that play a similar role to the phytocannabinoids like CBD and THC in the hemp plant. Cannabinoids like CBD may help enhance the endocannabinoid system's overall activity, which is thought to be involved in maintaining balance and well-being in the body.

Can CBD help with hyperactivity?

While research is still in its early stages, some studies have suggested that CBD may help manage the hyperactive tendencies common with children and adults who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).⁵ 

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBD oil may help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity in children with ADHD.⁶ Another study published in the Journal of Child Neurology found that CBD may be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and improving social interactions in children with ASD.⁷ 

Another study found that CBD may help adults with hyperactive symptoms commonly associated with ADD/ADHD.⁸ However, it's important to keep in mind that THC was also included in the study, and the verdict is still out on whether or not THC or CBD caused the reduction in impulsivity. 

While studies on CBD's relationship with hyperactivity are scarce, there is still some evidence that CBD may help in other areas that might lead to hyperactive tendencies. For example, studies suggest that CBD may help with stress and anxiety.⁹ Stress is a huge contributor to poor lifestyle habits, diets, and sleep patterns, which might contribute to hyperactive symptoms.¹⁰ 

Evidence suggests that CBD's relationship with the ECS may make it possible to support a balanced sleeping and waking schedule, reduce stress or anxiety, and improve appetite.¹¹⁻¹² Some studies also suggest that CBD may reduce inflammation, which negatively impacts sleep, appetite, and stress that may cause hyperactivity.¹³

It's important to note that additional research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using CBD for these conditions. Also, It's important to note that CBD is not FDA-approved for treating ADHD, ADD, or autism, and you should always consult your doctor before using CBD or giving it to your child. 

Other potential ways to manage hyperactivity 

If a mental health disorder doesn't cause hyperactivity in children or adults, managing the effects of being overactive may boil down to small lifestyle changes. For example, evidence suggests that getting enough exercise and sticking to a regular sleeping and waking schedule may help reduce feelings of restlessness.¹⁴⁻¹⁵

Dietary changes may also help manage hyperactivity like cutting out sugar or caffeine, making it easier for your body to get the rest it needs to function.¹⁶ Sleeping, eating and exercising all play pivotal roles in reducing restlessness and anxious tendencies. 

Since evidence suggests that CBD may help you lead a more balanced lifestyle by working with the ECS, you may want to incorporate it into your daily wellness routine. THC-free CBD options taken in the morning and at night may help you get the rest you need to feel your best and improve your appetite without any potential intoxication. 

While there is some evidence to suggest that CBD may help manage symptoms of ADHD, ADD, and autism, more research is needed to understand its potential benefits and risks fully. However, we know that CBD may help with some common triggers of hyperactivity in children and adults. Working closely with a healthcare professional when considering using CBD for these conditions is important, and when you're ready to look at other options, you can count on Lazarus Naturals. 

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Sources: 

¹https://www.verywellhealth.com/hyperactivity-5221845 

²https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nutrition-and-adhd#supplement-studies 

³https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3630973/ 

⁴https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569 

⁵https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8489316/ 

⁶https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30382443/ 

⁷https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6333745/ 

⁸https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8832253/ 

⁹https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/ 

¹⁰https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987 

¹¹https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/ 

¹²https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40261-022-01205-y 

¹³https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/ 

¹⁴https://health.gov/news/202112/physical-activity-good-mind-and-body 

¹⁵https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/why-do-we-need-sleep 

¹⁶https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8179235/