Cannabis and Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects information processing in the brain by disrupting the normal flow of information between brain cells and affecting how we act and interact. Experts have not found a single cause of ASD but rather a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Symptoms can vary from mild to severe but include problems with social interaction, problems with communication (such as delayed speech or lack of verbal speech), and restricted and repetitive behavior. These may include hand flapping and rocking, inappropriate speech, or a lack of eye contact.
Globally, ASD is estimated to affect 1 in 160 children and 1 in 68 children in the United States. The disease can profoundly affect everyday activities, including socializing, communicating, and relating to others.
Over the years, research has shown cannabis can be an effective treatment for various conditions such as cancer, chronic pain, and inflammation. It has also been shown to be therapeutic for those with ASD.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two types of cannabinoids that are found naturally in cannabis plants and have been reported to have therapeutic effects. Research suggests that medical cannabis may help improve some symptoms associated with autism, such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and insomnia.
Medical and Recreational Cannabis: What is the difference?
The main difference between medical and recreational cannabis use is the amount of THC contained within each plant. Recreational strains contain higher levels of THC than medicinal strains. Remember, high amounts of THC can lead to paranoia, anxiety, panic attacks, and psychosis. Therefore, most physicians advise against giving minors THC. The same goes for adults with sensitive constitutions.
However, some doctors believe that medical cannabis offers patients suffering from chronic pain, migraines, epilepsy, glaucoma, nausea, PTSD, muscle spasms, and other conditions relief from the side effects associated with prescription drugs. In addition, some experts believe that medical cannabis can help patients deal with more severe cases of cancer and AIDS.
With ASD, the relationship between cannabis and ASD has been studied in many ways, with several studies focusing on the impact of cannabinoids on autism and its feasibility of cannabidiol cannabis-based trials in children.
The Relationship between Cannabis and Autism
The link between cannabis and autism symptoms is still unclear. However, studies focusing on CBD prove it to be an effective alternative treatment for autism. Although more research needs to be done before we know whether CBD does help alleviate some symptoms of autism, a published study suggested that CBD helped reduce repetitive behavior outbreaks in 61% of the patients following cannabis treatment. Another study showed that CBD reduced the frequency of seizures in autistic children. Both cases suggest that CBD-rich strains could potentially benefit children with ASD.
Treating ASD with Cannabis and how it works?
Several anecdotal reports suggest that parents use cannabis to treat their children with ASD. One mother reported that her son stopped hitting himself after smoking cannabis. She said she didn’t think he would stop until she gave him cannabis.
While anecdotes aren’t enough to prove that cannabis works, they provide insight into how people use cannabis to manage their children’s ASD. These are not different from what recent studies are reporting.
One recent study published in a journal of Neurology showed promising results in treating ASD with CBD.
Studies suggest that cannabis reduces aggression and impulsivity, two behaviors commonly observed among people with autism. Cannabinoids like CBD appear to play a role in calming down the nervous system. Cannabis use reduces unwanted thoughts and feelings, such as obsessive thinking and fearfulness.
In summary, when used appropriately, CBD can help treat many conditions, including anxiety, Depression, Epilepsy, Insomnia, Nausea, Pain, and PTSD.
If you’re considering using medical cannabis to manage your child’s condition, it’s important to get a medical cannabis card keeping in mind that cannabis and cannabis products are illegal to possess without a license in many states.
Best strains for autism
To treat autism with cannabis, you’ll need to choose products formulated with low THC strains and high in cannabidiol. These will allow your child to reap the full benefits of CBD without feeling stoned. While you may like to check out our catalog of professionally selected strains for different conditions, our team at Medical Cannabis Doctors can also help you. Medical Cannabis Doctors provide safe and legal access to medical cannabis for those with qualifying conditions.
Is it safe to give cannabis to kids with autism?
The best way to determine whether cannabis can improve your child’s behavior is to talk to your physician and decide which dosage is right for you; this isn’t something anyone wants to hear, but if you don’t want your kid to get high, it’s best to stick with the best strains for ASD.
The Best Way to Use Medical Cannabis for Children with Autism
When it comes to treating children on the autism spectrum, it’s important to remember that they’re still kids. Even though medical cannabis might seem like a natural way to help them cope, you must talk to a professional first.
There are different kinds of Cannabis products available today. They range from oils to tinctures containing CBD and other cannabinoids. You can also add CBD-rich hemp seed oil to baked goods, cereals, smoothies, and salad dressings.
Check out our cooking and cannabis classes for the best way to use medical cannabis for children with autism.
How Will Using Medical Cannabis Help Your Child?
Medical cannabis helps children with autism by addressing physical and mental health issues. It provides relief for many of the same symptoms commonly experienced by children with autism. For instance, it can help them relax during stressful times, improve sleep patterns, decrease agitation, and even boost mood. Doctors say that medical cannabis can make life easier for children on the spectrum by addressing these problems.
Conclusion
You may have been told that your child could never function in society because of autism, but researchers are showing that your child may go to school and probably make friends.
Cannabis is an effective alternative treatment for autism. It has profound effects on brain neurotransmitters and can also improve the development of autistic children. But getting your cannabis for autism is not easy. So why not make it a lot easier?
Visit us today at Medical Cannabis Doctors with your medical cannabis card, and we will introduce you to professionally selected strains that can help your child!
If you don’t have a medical cannabis card, don’t worry; we can help you! Click here to apply for one.
