CBD-Rich Cannabis Alleviates Symptoms of Autism, Study Finds

According to new data the daily use of CBD-dominant cannabis extracts has been associated with improved outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other severe behavioral problems.

Israeli researchers assessed whole-plant cannabis extracts in children with ASD and found that the participants had “overall improvement in behavior, anxiety, and communication” after daily cannabis use, reports NORML. Over half of the participants either reduced or ceased taking prescription medications during the trial period.

The authors noted: “Following the cannabis treatment, behavioral outbreaks were much improved or very much improved in 61% of patients. … [T]he results of the current study render worthwhile further exploration of this treatment avenue in controlled studies.”

Participants were administered extracts containing a 20 to 1 ratio of CBD to THC for periods of 7 to 13 months.