From parenting blogs to Facebook groups, the internet abounds with anecdotal accounts of using cannabidiol (CBD) to manage the symptoms of chronic illnesses in children. Some of these accounts, such as the miraculous story of six-year-old Charlotte Figi, are supported by doctors and accompanying case studies. But does that mean that CBD is right for your child? That depends.

WHEN SHOULD YOU GIVE YOUR CHILD CBD?

Cannabidiol may be the right choice for your child if they are among the estimated 10-20 million American children and adolescents living with chronic illnesses and disabilities. CBD has been shown to improve the symptoms of the following conditions that often develop during childhood.

ANXIETY DISORDERS

These disorders have many names: generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and social anxiety disorder. According to the CDC, approximately 4.4 million children have some form of anxiety disorder. These disorders have many names – generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, OCD, and social anxiety disorder – but they all share similar symptoms.

Preclinical (using animals) and early human studies have shown that cannabidiol can lessen these symptoms. A review of the research examining treating anxiety disorders with CBD noted “minimal sedative effect[s], and an excellent safety profile,” making it an appealing option for pediatric patients.

Cannabidiol may help treat many childhood conditions, from autism spectrum disorder to neuroblastoma.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Outbreaks of problematic behavior, anxiety, and communication problems are common symptoms of autism. Treatment with cannabidiol was shown to reduce these symptoms in a study of 60 autistic children, as well as a reduction in stress levels reported by parents. 

These results prompted one of the researchers, Dr. Ani Aran, to continue investigating the effects of CBD in autistic children. In December of 2018, he completed a study examining the results of 150 patients over three months, but the results are yet to be released.

SEIZURES & EPILEPSY

Cannabidiol is renowned for treating seizures and severe forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. While most research focuses on adults, with the previously-mentioned case of Charlotte Figi being a notable exception, parents are adamant CBD helps their children.

A survey of parents found 84 percent reported using CBD enriched cannabis reduced seizure frequency for their children. Of these parents, 11 percent observed a total cessation of seizure while using cannabidiol, and there were no reports of dangerous side effects.

ATTENTION DEFICIT [HYPERACTIVE] DISORDER

While no studies have been conducted using children, there is evidence that CBD has the potential to help manage attention-deficient [hyperactive] disorder (ADD/ADHD).

A preclinical study of rats shows that CBD may reduce hyperactive symptoms, such as the inability to sit still, but did not appear to increase attention span. However, a human trial of Sativex, an oral spray that contains a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC, showed a marked improvement in hyperactive and impulsive behaviors, as well as attention span and emotional control.

OTHER POTENTIAL USES

Researchers are continually identifying new and innovative uses for cannabidiol, some of which are specifically for infants. Perinatal (immediately before or after birth) brain injuries can cause a host of neurological problems that follow children throughout their lives. Animal studies have shown cannabidiol can reduce brain inflammation and cellular death caused by perinatal brain injuries, which may lessen the long-term functional impairment these injuries cause.

Another potential use of cannabidiol is in the treatment of the third most common form of childhood cancer, which is called neuroblastoma. This research is nowhere near complete, but the findings thus far have been promising, with CBD showing the ability to reduce the viability of neuroblastoma cells, leading to a decrease in tumor size and inhibited tumor growth.

Giving kids medication can be difficult, but the versatility of CBD helps make it easier for you and your child.

HOW DO YOU GIVE CBD TO KIDS & ADOLESCENTS?

Giving children medication can be a bit difficult, depending on their age, and they will likely refuse to take anything that tastes unpleasant. Thankfully cannabidiol is remarkably versatile, making it much easier to find a method that works well for you and your child.

Adolescents that are willing to hold a tincture under their tongue can take it sublingually. Have your child hold it there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing to allow the CBD to absorb into the bloodstream. For younger children, mixing tincture or odorless, tasteless isolate into food and drinks might be the best option.

FINDING THE RIGHT DOSE

Unlike other medications, there are no guidelines for how much cannabidiol to use, and the right amount is different for everyone. When giving CBD to your child, you should always start with a low dose and gradually increase it. Some children may benefit from taking it all at one time, while others may need it spread out in 2 to 3 doses throughout the day.

Scientific studies show a wide range of doses, all the way from 0.5 mg/kg/day to 40 mg/kg/day, so determining the exact amount to start with can be tricky. Consider talking to a pediatrician before giving cannabidiol to your child, as they may be able to help you decide how much CBD your child needs.

WHERE CAN YOU BUY CBD FOR YOUR CHILD?

Although cannabidiol extracted from hemp is federally legal, there is still a lack of regulations around the production of CBD products. The onus for buying safe products often lies with the consumer, and that can be intimidating when purchasing something you intend to give to your child. Iconic Remedies wants to make this easier by helping you get to know their company, so you can be confident you are choosing the best product for your little one.

GROWING, EXTRACTING, & TESTING

The hemp used in all Iconic Remedies products is grown organically in Colorado, without the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides. A cold ethanol extraction process, which is among the safest and most effective methods, is used to make extracts free of any toxic solvent residue.

These extracts are added to other wholesome ingredients, like MCT oil, to create high-quality cannabidiol tinctures, isolates, and more. Each product is then tested by an independent lab to ensure they always contain what the label says, nothing more and nothing less.

CBD appears to be remarkably safe, especially compared to other medications commonly prescribed to children.

IS CBD ACTUALLY SAFE FOR CHILDREN TO USE?

There are not a lot of studies looking specifically at the long-term effects of giving CBD to pediatric patients or even chronic use in adults. However, the idea cannabidiol is relatively harmless is not unfounded; a review of the studies on effectiveness and safety support this idea, also noting it may be safer than many prescription medications. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that cannabidiol is generally well-tolerated, does not show potential for dependence, and appears to cause minimal side effects.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS

Cannabidiol is not without side effects; drowsiness, loss of appetite, fatigue, and other mild discomforts are not uncommon, but they usually resolve themselves within a few days. In comparison, Adderall, the 23rd most commonly prescribed pediatric medication, can cause moodiness, delayed growth, behavioral tics, and dependence. In 2005, the Canadian government banned the sale of Adderall XR after attributing 20 mysterious deaths to the drug.

Cannabidiol can also interact with other medications, causing them to become more or less effective. The risk of interaction is higher when giving CBD to your child in food and drinks, as the liver enzymes that metabolize CBD are also responsible for breaking down many prescription medications. If your child regularly takes medication, talk to their pediatrician to determine if the dosage needs to be adjusted.

FULL-SPECTRUM VS. PURE CBD

Full spectrum cannabidiol is often thought to be more effective because the hundreds of compounds in hemp help heighten the effects of one another. While this phenomenon, known as the entourage effect, is supported by scientific evidence, full-spectrum products may be detrimental to brain health and neurological development when given to children.

The psychoactive component of hemp and marijuana, THC, may cause a neurological decline in adolescents, leading to poor memory function, lowered IQ scores, impaired reasoning, and delayed comprehension. Discontinuing the use of cannabis was unable to reverse these effects, suggesting that they are permanent. 

However, there may be some children who benefit from the small about of THC in full-spectrum products, particularly those with debilitating conditions. You may also choose to give your child broad-spectrum products, which have the THC removed, instead of full-spectrum or pure cannabidiol. You can learn more about the differences between each type of product here.

Always speak with a pediatrician or other medical professional about any concerns you have regarding the health of your child.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Whether you decide to give your child a CBD tincture, isolate, or any other infused products, ensure you always keep them out of their reach. Although an overdose of cannabidiol is not fatal, it can cause unpleasant side effects like an upset stomach.

If you are unsure whether or not cannabidiol can help your child, talk to their pediatrician. If you think that CBD is the right option for treating your child’s chronic illness or disability, Iconic Remedies products are available for purchase online and can be shipped within the United States.

Whether you are a novice or experienced cannabidiol (CBD) consumer, isolates are an excellent way to benefit from the effects of CBD without worrying about any additional compounds. Not only are isolates purchased from a reputable company the purest form of CBD you can buy, but they are also by far the most versatile.

WHAT EXACTLY IS AN ISOLATE?

Cannabidiol isolates are precisely what their name implies; pure CBD and nothing else. Hemp plants contain over 100 cannabinoids, as well as multiple terpenes and phenolic compounds. While these can be beneficial, they may not be appealing to everyone.

Isolates do not contain any of these additional compounds, as the extraction process removes them, but more on that later. What remains after extraction is pure cannabidiol, a white crystalline powder that is both tasteless and odorless. If you dislike the taste of hemp, CBD isolate is a perfect alternative to broad and full-spectrum products.

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS

Using all the compounds in hemp together is rightly considered to be immensely beneficial, but cannabidiol alone can also improve and maintain health. A multitude of physical and psychological ailments benefit from treatment that incorporates pure CBD, with some responding better to isolates.

Using THC, even the trace amount of 0.3 percent found in full-spectrum products, can worsen symptoms for some people. For example, the effects of THC are especially detrimental to individuals at risk of developing psychosis and other psychological symptoms.

It can also be risky for anyone who undergoes regular drug screenings since even minute amounts of THC can trigger a positive result. If you regularly take medications, you should consult with your doctor before using CBD isolate, as it can effect some prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Learn more about the therapeutic effects of pure cannabidiol here.

EXTRACTION PROCESS

There are many ways to extract cannabinoids. Iconic Remedies uses a cold ethanol extraction method, which results in products that are free from any chemical residue. This extraction method is not only clean, but it is also extremely safe and commonly used in the making of everyday food products like vanilla extract.

A process that is known as winterization then removes the fats, waxes, and other undesirable plant materials that have no place in the final product. The last step is short path distillation, which separates cannabinoids based on their boiling points, leaving only pure cannabidiol.

HOW DO YOU USE ISOLATES?

The versatility of CBD isolate is by far its most significant benefit. How you use cannabidiol impacts how long it takes to feel the effects and how long those effects last. Some methods are more beneficial than others for treating specific conditions, but whether ingested or inhaled, isolates are an excellent way to improve and maintain overall health.

CBD Isolate is extremely versatile – especially when baking yummy treats with infused oils!

SMOKING & VAPING

Inhalation allows cannabidiol to enter the circulatory system nearly instantaneously through the many blood vessels in the lungs. Although you will begin to feel the therapeutic effects within minutes, keep in mind that they will only last for an average of 3 hours.

Smoking, vaping, or dabbing an isolate is similar to using shatter. Add the desired amount to other smokable herbs, a vaporizer, or a traditional dab rig. This method of absorption (MOA) can be especially beneficial in the treatment of illnesses with sudden-onset symptoms that require rapid relief, such as panic attacks associated with anxiety.

SUBLINGUAL ABSORPTION

Sublingual means under the tongue and is a prevalent absorption method for those who use CBD tincture. Isolates can also be taken sublingually by holding it under your tongue for 60-90 seconds before swallowing.

The effects of sublingual absorption have a relatively quick onset time, taking around 5-15 minutes and lasting for 4-6 hours. Taking isolate under the tongue can be beneficial for symptoms of chronic conditions that require relatively fast relief that lasts, such as the inflammatory pain from arthritis.

TOPICAL APPLICATIONS

Isolate can be mixed with creams, lotions, or other skin-safe oils to facilitate topical use through transdermal (through the skin) absorption. The effects of topical CBD are felt within 25-35 minutes and last for up to 6 hours.

Topical application of pure cannabidiol can work wonders on problematic skin and improve the symptoms of psoriasis, eczema, and other dermatological conditions. This MOA is best as a spot treatment for pain and irritation, but very little CBD enters the bloodstream. The majority of the cannabidiol stays in the skin to interact with the many cannabinoid receptors it contains.

IN FOOD & DRINKS

The most versatile method of all is adding cannabidiol isolate to food and drinks. Although it takes longer for ingested CBD to work (about 30-60 minutes), the effects can last for up to 8 hours, and you can use it in recipes that cater to your specific tastes. There is one vital thing to consider, though.

The digestive system is not very good at delivering pure CBD to the bloodstream. After reaching the liver, enzymes metabolism cannabidiol into over 100 different metabolites, many of which are useless to the human body. Adding your isolate to oil that contains either medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) helps your body absorb it more efficiently.

HOW DO YOU COOK WITH CBD?

To add CBD isolate to recipes, you first have to add it into an oil that contains either MCTs or LCTs. Olive oil is an excellent source of long-chain triglycerides, and it is something you likely already have your pantry. Read on to learn how to make your own infused olive oil, which you can then use in place of other fats in your favorite recipes.

DIY INFUSED OLIVE OIL

To make your own infused olive oil, you will need a double boiler, 1 gram of CBD isolate, 1-2 ounces olive oil, and a sterile container. If you do not have a double boiler, you can make your own. Fill a large or medium pot about 1/4 full of water and place a smaller saucepan on top, ensuring that it does not touch the water.

Bring the water to a boil, then add your olive oil and isolate to the upper part of your actual or makeshift double boiler. Do not allow the water to reach a rapid boil, as this can cause it to splash into the oil. Stir for 5-10 minutes, until the oil is clear and the isolate fully dissolves.

Pour your newly infused olive oil into a sterile glass container. When using it for baking and cooking, replace the oil the recipe calls for with the same about of infused olive oil. Remember that heating cannabidiol above 400 degrees Fahrenheit will cause it to lose almost all of its benefits.

MEASURING AN EXACT AMOUNT

Isolates are 99 percent pure cannabidiol, meaning each milligram is equal to 0.99 milligrams of CBD. The most accurate way to measure an exact dose is to use a kitchen scale that displays weight in milligrams. Using this method, you measure out 25 milligrams of isolate you will be taking approximately 25 milligrams of cannabidiol, or 24.75 to be precise.

If you do not have access to a kitchen scale, you can also use a measuring spoon for more substantial amounts. A teaspoon is equal to approximately 4.2 grams, so to measure out about 1 gram (1000 milligrams) of isolate for making an infused oil, you would use 1/4 of a teaspoon. Unfortunately, the smallest measuring spoon you can easily buy is 1/16 of a teaspoon, or 250 milligrams, and is likely more CBD than you would be taking at one time.

To calculate the potency of DIY infused products, divide the amount of isolate in milligrams by the amount of oil in milliliters. For example, if you use 1 ounce of olive oil (29.57 milliliters) and 1 gram of pure CBD (1000 milligrams), you divide 1000 by 29.57 for a result of 33.78, meaning your infused oil contains 33.78 milligrams of cannabidiol per milliliter of oil.

You can see this article on determining the right amount of isolate to use to help you decide how much cannabidiol you should take. The ideal dose and MOA are different for everyone, but pure CBD is remarkably versatile and can easily be customized to fit your needs.

WHERE CAN YOU BUY ISOLATE?

When buying CBD isolate, or any other product containing cannabidiol, you must purchase from a reputable company. Iconic Remedies Pure CBD Isolate Powder is an excellent choice thanks to their dedication to quality;  you can learn more about their company values, products, and commitment to customer satisfaction here.

Pure cannabidiol is an invaluable addition to your daily routine, either on its own or in combination with broad and full-spectrum products. Now that you know a bit more about the different ways you can use CBD isolate, and how those methods impact the length and duration of the effects, you can start experimenting with different doses and DIY infused products today!

The human body is approximately 60 percent water, and that can be problematic when delivering a fat-soluble compound like CBD to the bloodstream. Some methods of consumption, such as sublingual absorption and inhalation, negate the solubility issue by taking a direct route to the circulatory system. 

Capsules complicated. The digestive system does a poor job of delivering cannabidiol to the bloodstream without help, which is why fatty acids like medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are an invaluable addition to any edible CBD product., on the other hand, have to be ingested, and this is where absorption starts to get

MCT OIL POWDER AIDS CBD ABSORPTION

After swallowing cannabidiol, it passes through the stomach, small intestine, and liver before reaching the circulatory system. Within the liver, a group of enzymes called cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolize CBD into over 100 other compounds, known as metabolites. The human body is unable to use the majority of these metabolites and quickly expels them. 

If that seems like a waste of CBD, that’s because it is. The process of CYP enzymes breaking down cannabidiol into unusable compounds is called the first-pass effect or first-pass metabolism, and it results in a lower concentration of CBD entering the bloodstream. 

Using a carrier oil, such as MCT oil powder, increases the amount of cannabidiol that enters circulation. CBD molecules bind to fatty acids, allowing them to bypass the first-pass effect. Skipping this process increases the amount of CBD that enters the bloodstream and hastens the onset of beneficial effects.

Coconuts and coconut oil are one of the best sources of medium-chain triglycerides.

HOW & WHEN TO USE CBD CAPSULES

The right dosage of cannabidiol varies from person to person, as does the best time to take CBD. For more information on determining the optimum amount and when to take it, see this in-depth article.

Like any other medication or supplement, CBD capsules should be taken with a glass of water at the same time each day to help the body become accustomed to them. 

DOES EATING IMPROVE ABSORPTION?

Cannabidiol will not irritate the stomach if taken without food, so eating is not necessary. However, studies show that consuming a meal high in fat helps increase the bioavailability of CBD delivered through the digestive system.

Because the majority of CBD capsules contain a carrier oil, whether or not the stomach contains food is not all that important. The previously mentioned study only examines the effect high-fat meals have on the absorption of 99 percent pure cannabidiol capsules – basically isolate in a pill form.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO FEEL THE EFFECTS?

The route of administration for capsules takes an indirect path to the bloodstream, resulting in it taking longer to feel the effects than more direct methods of consumption. It can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to feel the effects of CBD capsules; however, these effects can last for 6 to 8 hours.

ARE CBD TABLETS & CAPSULES THE SAME THING?

Some manufacturers sell cannabidiol tablets as well as capsules. Despite these terms often being used interchangeably, there are some fundamental differences between the two – the most considerable of which is that tablets do not contain a carrier oil.

COMPARING CAPSULES TO CBD TINCTURES

The ingredient lists for CBD capsules and tinctures are often identical, usually consisting of cannabidiol isolate or hemp oil mixed with a carrier oil, such as MCT oil. Despite these similarities, there are a few differences between the two products.

Tinctures are far more versatile and can be added to food or drinks, as well as taken sublingually (under the tongue). As previously mentioned, sublingual absorption is faster than absorption through the digestive system, making tinctures a better choice for anyone looking for rapid relief.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CBD CAPSULES?

Although capsules take longer to work, they may be a better choice for treating chronic illnesses because the effects last longer. Capsules also always contain the same amount of cannabidiol, there is no guesswork or measuring required.

Capsules are also very discreet and can be easily passed off as a nutritional supplement or medication. Tinctures, on the other hand, require measuring oil from a rather conspicuous bottle. Although this is not difficult, it can attract unwanted attention.

Despite their similarities, tinctures and capsules are not the same. Each has unique benefits and drawbacks.

WHAT ARE THE DRAWBACKS?

Of course, one cannot say that capsules are superior to tinctures; they do have some drawbacks. The dose of CBD is far more rigid when using capsules, while the amount of tincture used is easy to adjust. This can be a benefit for some, but when experimenting with different doses tinctures are a more flexible option.

Another potential disadvantage to using capsules is that they often are made using pure CBD isolate. Depending on individual needs, this can also be a benefit for some and a negative for others. Tinctures are usually available in several varieties, containing either pure, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum extract. To learn more about the types of tinctures and their differences, see this article.

WHERE TO BUY THE BEST CBD CAPSULES

When purchasing capsules or any other CBD product, it is important to ensure that is coming from a trusted manufacturer. Many fly-by-night operations produce poor quality or synthetic products that not only do not work but are also potentially harmful.

Iconic Remedies is committed to producing high-quality CBD capsules, tinctures, and much more. From the time the hemp is planted until the final product is shipped, the utmost care is taken to ensure customer satisfaction. Click here to learn more about Iconic Remedies products, and their commitment to customers.

WHAT DO ICONIC REMEDIES CAPSULES CONTAIN?

Iconic Remedies capsules are made using pure CBD isolate and coconut oil powder. Coconuts contain a remarkable amount of MCT oil, allowing the potent isolate to be absorbed as quickly and efficiently as possible for the best results. 

WHERE DOES THE HEMP COME FROM?

Iconic Remedies uses cannabidiol isolate extracted from organically grown hemp in their capsules. Cultivated locally in Colorado, no pesticides are used to ensure that the final product never contains any harmful chemicals. Where hemp comes from is extremely important, as importing cannabis from other countries without regulations can lead to subpar – and even contaminated – CBD products.

ARE THE CAPSULES TESTED BY A TRUSTED SOURCE?

The hallmark of a reputable company and quality CBD products is the availability of third-party lab test results. Iconic Remedies provides these results for their capsules and strongly cautions readers to be wary of any manufacturer that refuses to make this information available.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Cannabidiol capsules are an easy way to manage chronic illnesses, such as arthritis and depression, as well as improve overall health. There are far too many benefits to list here, so check out this article to learn more about the therapeutic effects of CBD.

Whether using capsules on their own or as a way to increase CBD consumption while using other broad and full-spectrum products, Iconic Remedies CBD Isolate Capsules provide all the benefits of cannabidiol in one easy-to-swallow pill!

Remember to always talk to your primary care physician or a trusted medical professional before using CBD capsules, as studies show cannabidiol products can alter the effects of other medications.