Today, CBD is available everywhere. Some believe it can alleviate everything from chronic pain to cancer, as well as anxiety and ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Derived from the hemp plant, this compound is generating a lot of excitement in both traditional and modern medicine. Due to its beneficial effects on overall health and well-being, CBD is becoming increasingly well-known among the French public. Furthermore, the number of users is growing over time. But is it safe for children?
ADHD, sleep disorders, school phobias? Is your child restless and having trouble calming down? When you hear about the benefits of CBD, you might think, “Why not?” But is it really okay to give CBD to your child? We’ll tell you everything you need to know!
What do we know about CBD?
Put simply, CBD is an organic compound derived from the hemp plant. Hemp is a complex plant composed of many molecules (more than 200 cannabinoids), including CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Unlike THC, CBD is legal because it has no psychoactive effects and is not addictive.
At first, the use of cannabidiol was met with a great deal of suspicion due to its origin. But in recent years, it has come to be regarded as a cure-all for most of the illnesses people suffer from. This means that CBD is now making great strides. That is why the effectiveness of CBD is increasingly the subject of serious research, particularly by scientists. Similarly, studies demonstrating the effectiveness of cannabidiol have led to its inclusion in certain treatments, particularly for epilepsy.
Since CBD was legalized in France, CBD stores have sprung up all over the country. It also comes in many forms: oils, herbal teas, food products, cosmetics, and many others. It is undeniably effective for adults—and even for some animals—when used correctly. But what about children?
See also: All the questions you might have before giving your pet CBD
Can children legally use CBD?
Despite its many health benefits, CBD is not a medicine. Since CBD is still a new product, there is very little research data on its safety and effectiveness, particularly for children. However, when it comes to children, researchers have not yet found a definitive answer to the question of whether CBD is beneficial for them.
When it comes to minors using CBD, you should be aware that the laws are very strict. While the use of this compound is permitted to a certain extent, minors are completely prohibited from using CBD. This means you must be of legal age to legally use or possess CBD.
But what is the reason for this?
It is true that it is a safe compound, as it may relieve and soothe many everyday ailments and pains, but its use is still subject to certain strict guidelines. To date, no scientific studies have confirmed the effectiveness of cannabidiol in children. The same applies to pregnant women—even though it is considered safe by the WHO.
See also: CBD and Pregnancy: Are They Compatible?
Currently, researchers believe there is too high a risk that children will not tolerate CBD, so these products have simply been removed from the market. CBD may be safe on its own, but it can interact with other medications used by children that are metabolized by the liver.
Therefore, further research is needed on the actual short- and long-term effects of CBD on the body to determine whether laws in this area can be amended. But for now, the laws are very strict. Therefore, CBD should only be used by adults. To avoid legal action, it is important to learn as much as possible about the legal framework surrounding this substance.
Although there is plenty of anecdotal evidence of the benefits of CBD, there are risks associated with its use, particularly in children.
What does an expert say?
Dr. Mitrani —a clinical psychiatrist at the Child Mind Institute—is concerned that if you use CBD to help your child fall asleep, they may develop a tolerance despite its potential effects on sleep, and their sleep problems may worsen when they stop taking it. Moreover, little is known about how much CBD actually crosses into the brain.
Furthermore, according to him, most CBD products have not undergone independent testing for their active ingredient content. They may contain ingredients other than CBD, which can be dangerous. Not all countries require laboratory testing for CBD products or provide information on the amount of CBD, THC (if present), and contaminants in the product.
However, from a scientific standpoint, there are still many unanswered questions. In fact, it is not yet possible to scientifically determine whether CBD affects children’s brain and psychological development. However, as research accelerates, it may be possible to provide children with proven benefits in the near future.
At what age can you start taking CBD?
In France, the age of majority is 18. CBD is therefore not recommended for minors and cannot be recommended to anyone under 18. Consequently, individuals over the age of 18 may legally use cannabidiol starting at that age. Similarly, French law permits the production, sale, and consumption of products containing less than 0.3% THC, but specifies that CBD may only be sold to adults. Minors are therefore not permitted to purchase it. This measure, which is part of efforts to protect minors, clarifies all issues related to the sale of CBD to minors.
In this case, before considering giving your child CBD, try to find other ways to relieve their discomfort. Maintain good, healthy communication with your child, involve them in sports, artistic, creative, and/or group activities, and help them socialize without questioning your parenting skills. Children develop their personalities through all their social interactions, both positive and negative. CBD is therefore not a specific solution for the natural development and learning of young children, but it may help adults in their daily lives.
Conclusion
Users associate cannabidiol with many positive properties, but its effectiveness remains a matter of speculation. Even though researchers and regulators do not yet have specific data on the effects of this cannabinoid on children, it is best to exercise caution and not give it to minors.
Furthermore, it is important to know that it is very difficult to prevent children from using CBD products, as many online and brick-and-mortar stores sell these products. Parents and retailers must therefore take responsibility.
