Cannabidiol Oil Shows Promise in Reducing Anxiety and Parenting Stress in Autistic Children

A recent study published in the journal *Autism Research* investigates the potential benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) oil for autistic children, focusing on its effects on social behaviors and anxiety levels. Conducted by researchers from Deakin University, the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial involved 29 children diagnosed with autism, with an average age of nine and a half years. Participants received either a broad-spectrum CBD oil or a placebo over a total of 32 weeks, with each child taking the oil daily for 12 weeks followed by an eight-week washout period before switching to the other treatment.

Psypost

The primary measure of the study, the Social Responsiveness Scale, did not show a statistically significant improvement in broad social communication among participants taking CBD oil compared to those on placebo. However, secondary measures indicated promising results. Children exhibited improvements in specific social relating skills and reported fewer anxiety symptoms when using CBD oil. Additionally, parents noted a significant reduction in stress levels during the treatment phase, as assessed by the Autism Parenting Stress Index.

Psypost

The CBD oil was generally well tolerated, with only two participants reporting mild gastrointestinal discomfort. One child withdrew early due to pre-existing stomach issues, while the other experienced relief after a week. Researchers noted that the carrier MCT oil might have contributed to these side effects.

Psypost

Despite the encouraging findings, the researchers emphasize that the results are preliminary and should not be interpreted as definitive proof of CBD's efficacy in treating autism. The small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings, and the study's authors advocate for further research under medical supervision. They plan to conduct larger trials across multiple clinics to validate the observed benefits and explore the relationship between reduced anxiety and improved social skills.

Psypost

Nina-Francesca Parrella, a cognitive neuroscience researcher involved in the study, stated, “In this pilot trial, CBD oil did not significantly improve our primary measure of social communication compared with placebo after 12 weeks. However, we did observe improvements on some secondary measures, particularly improved social relating, reduced anxiety symptoms, and lower parenting stress.” She also highlighted the need for more extensive trials to explore the nuances of CBD's effects on different demographics within the autistic population.

Psypost

While the study presents promising results, critics caution against overestimating the potential of CBD oil as a treatment for autism. Concerns include the variability in CBD products available on the market and the lack of standardized formulations. Experts stress the importance of conducting research under controlled conditions to ensure safety and efficacy.

Psypost

Future studies will aim to determine optimal dosages, assess the long-term effects of CBD oil, and clarify whether improvements in social skills are directly linked to reduced anxiety. The research team is actively seeking funding for larger, placebo-controlled trials to further investigate these questions.

Psypost