CBD may provide some benefits for stress, anxiety, and sleep support. While these are not the core symptoms of ADHD, they are commonly observed in people with ADHD.
However, while the evidence is still evolving, more studies are needed to support the use and efficacy of CBD in individuals with this health condition. Thus, the present review of the best CBD products for ADHD will target specific symptoms associated with ADHD and whether they may be managed with cannabidiol.
Best CBD products for ADHD: shortlist
- FOCL — best CBD for ADHD to support cognitive function
- Joy Organics — best CBD for sleep difficulties in ADHD
- BATCH — best CBD for ADHD and focus
- House of Wise — best CBD oil for stress relief in ADHD
- Elevate — best cost-effective CBD for ADHD
How did we compile the list of top CBD products for ADHD?
Suggesting the top-rated CBD for ADHD is a responsible task. Thus, prioritizing users’ safety, we compiled our list of CBD products in accordance with the following criteria.
| Criteria | Description |
| Third-party testing | Certificate of Analysis (COA) for quality and potency |
| THC-content | <0.3% or THC-free |
| Other active ingredients | Natural adaptogens for ADHD |
| Price | $35–$75 |
- Third-party testing. This is an independent lab testing of the final product to establish CBD purity, potency, and safety, as well as the exact amount of ingredients in a container.
- THC-content. We considered CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC. A higher THC amount is illegal, can lead to adverse effects, and cause a feeling of “high.”
- Active ingredients. Although CBD was shown in limited studies to benefit some symptoms associated with ADHD, including other ingredients, proven effective for the mentioned condition, can bring additional health benefits. Some of the commonly used ingredients to address ADHD symptoms are Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea, L-theanine, Lion's mane, and others.
- Price. CBD products, based on their production process, ingredients, and quality, may vary in price. We selected high-quality CBD products for ADHD symptoms which are also reasonably priced.
Best CBD products for ADHD in 2023: overview
The ADHD comorbidities, such as cognitive difficulties, stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, affect the well-being of children and adults worldwide. Desiring to ward off these concerns, people may become curious to experience the suggested benefits of CBD products to manage ADHD symptoms.
Keeping in mind that CBD or other alternatives cannot replace medications, let’s take a look at how the following 5 best CBD for ADHD may help target related symptoms.
1. FOCL — best CBD capsules for ADHD to support cognitive function
FOCL Day CBD capsules contain 5 additional ingredients shown in separate studies to support different aspects of cognition — focus, attention, reaction times, and memory.
Although the provider doesn’t specify if the CBD in the capsules is broad-spectrum or isolate, it's claimed to be THC-free. With each capsule of FOCL Day, you will receive 10 mg of CBD.
FOCL Day contains L-theanine and Bacopa monnieri. While L-theanine is known to provide relaxation, it may also enhance focus and attention.
Bacopa monnieri has demonstrated the potential to improve reaction time, visual attention, ability to switch tasks, and other cognitive functions that may be impaired in people with ADHD. Rhodiola rosea, along with CBD, can provide relaxation and reduce mental fatigue.
FOCL Day CBD is formulated with non-GMO ingredients and is third-party tested for purity and exact amount of ingredients. This product is produced in a facility processing dairy, nuts, soy, and gluten.
The price of FOCL Day for a one-month supply is $49.
2. Joy Organics — best CBD softgels for sleep difficulties in ADHD
Joy Organics offers Premium CBD softgels containing melatonin and CBN — 3 mg each. This formula may be a good aid for people with ADHD experiencing sleep difficulties.
Melatonin is widely used to help with short-term sleep difficulties. Although evidence regarding CBN's effectiveness for sleep is yet to be established in further studies, it has been shown to convey some sedative effects.
If you already take melatonin, talk to your doctor about additional supplementation, as this CBD product contains 3 mg of melatonin.
Each softgel of Joy Organics contains 25 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. Note that this product may not be suitable for vegans as the pills are made with bovine-derived gelatin.
The provider claims its Premium CBD softgels to be highly absorbable as they are made with nanoemulsion technology for better bioavailability. Joy Organics CBD products are third-party tested for purity and safety.
One bottle contains 30 softgels and costs $79.95 for a one-time purchase.
3. BATCH — best CBD tincture for ADHD and focus
According to customer reviews, BATCH Clarity is the best CBD oil for reducing brain fog, improving focus and attention to work, as well as hindering intrusive thoughts.
BATCH clarity does not contain additional ingredients for ADHD. However, it’s a formula of broad-spectrum CBD oil containing a clarity terpene blend, ingredients of which may deliver some anti-inflammatory.
For people who do not like the CBD oil taste, the manufacturer added a slight citrus flavor with organic orange and lemon oils. Depending on your needs and tolerability, you can choose between bottles concentrating 1000 mg and 3000 mg of CBD.
If you are new to cannabidiol and desire to try CBD for ADHD for the first time, you may start with a 1000 mg bottle which delivers 27 mg of CBD with each 0.5 ml dropper.
This option of BATCH Clarity CBD oil costs $74.99 and contains 60 servings.
4. House of Wise — best CBD oil for stress and anxiety relief in ADHD
House of Wise offers its Stress oil enhanced with L-theanine and CBD. Each ingredient has been studied individually and shown to reduce stress and anxiety — commonly reported symptoms among people with ADHD.
In a study conducted with people showing anxiety symptoms, CBD was demonstrated to help reduce anxiety and related issues. L-theanine has also been researched in a number of studies for its calming effects in people without ADHD, though evidence specifically for ADHD is limited.
A package of House of Wise comes with 2 bottles totaling 1 oz (30 ml) of oil for 30 days of use. With one drop, you will receive 50 mg of L-theanine and 15 mg of full-spectrum CBD oil.
As Stress CBD oil is not flavored, you may try to mix them with your beverages to conceal the taste.
The provider displays third-party testing results on the product page. They also claim to offer non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free products.
The one-time purchase of House of Wise Stress oil costs $55.
5. Elevate — best cost-effective full-spectrum CBD oil for ADHD
Elevate CBD hemp oil tincture is the lowest-priced option on our list. Despite the comparably affordable price, the provider does not compromise product quality.
The hemp used for manufacturing Elevate CBD oil is US-grown, non-GMO, and organic. The final product does not contain gluten or other allergens.
There are two CBD concentration options. You can choose the one based on personal tolerability or your experience with CBD products. Bottles of Elevate containing a total of 600 mg and 1200 mg oil serves, respectively, 20 mg and 40 mg of CBD, with each serving of a full dropper.
The former may be a cost-effective choice for beginners or seasoned CBD users opting for stress reduction and sleep improvement.
A one-time purchase of Elevate containing 600 mg CBD costs $35.95.
Comparison of the top CBD products for ADHD
| Brand | Price per bottle* | Servings per bottle | CBD type | CBD form | CBD potency (per bottle) | Additional ingredients | Certificate of analysis |
| FOCL | $49.00 | 30 | Broad-spectrum | Capsules | 300 mg | Lion’s mane, Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea, L-theanine, vitamin B6 | Available on the product page |
| Joy Organics | $79.95 | 30 | Broad-spectrum | Softgels | 750 mg | CBN, melatonin | Available on the product page |
| BATCH | $74.99 | 60 | Full-spectrum | Oil | 1000 mg | Clarity terpene blend | Available online |
| House of Wise | $55.00 | 30 | Full-spectrum | Oil | 450 mg | L-theanine | Available on the product page |
| Elevate | $35.95 | 30 | Full-spectrum | Oil | 600 mg | None | Available online |
* — prices may vary depending on the potency and CBD form
The pros and cons of using CBD for ADHD
There is some emerging research to suggest that CBD may indirectly enhance focus by providing some anxiety and stress relief, as well as support sleep. However, the interest in the benefits of CBD for ADHD is growing rapidly, exceeding the research pace.
Based on the currently available data, there are the following pros and cons of CBD use for ADHD:
CBD capsules or oils may contain other botanicals with demonstrated benefits for ADHD symptoms.
The side effects associated with CBD use, in general, may apply to individuals with ADHD. Here are some of the common adverse effects:
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Diarrhea
Can CBD worsen certain ADHD symptoms?
Due to the limited research, no reports show that CBD may worsen core ADHD symptoms of hyperactivity and/or inattentiveness.
In the only clinical trial examining the effects of CBD on ADHD, people did not show any exacerbation of symptoms.
Currently, there are no official guidelines to avoid CBD in individuals with ADHD, nor clinical evidence to suggest that it may negatively influence the related symptoms. However, it is best to consult your healthcare provider before using CBD, especially along with ADHD medication.
How does CBD compare to traditional ADHD treatments?
The primary difference between CBD and traditional ADHD treatments is their established efficacy. ADHD medications, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, and others, have been on the market for a long period. They have been observed in numerous studies to improve ADHD symptoms both in adults and children.
On the other hand, CBD, as a comparably new compound, has not been studied thoroughly and shows limited benefits for ADHD. CBD products, though, are natural means in comparison to medications.
CBD has no stimulant effects, while some ADHD treatments can contain stimulants. CBD generally doesn’t show addictive properties, which is not true about prescription ADHD medications.
What should parents consider before giving their child CBD for ADHD?
The safety of CBD products in children is not established. Parents who consider giving CBD to their children should consult a healthcare provider beforehand. Importantly, CBD should not replace ADHD medication that a child is currently taking.
Some parents may give their child CBD for a sound sleep. However, everyone’s body is different, and some children may experience adverse effects. Children with ADHD may show behavioral alterations after taking CBD or other non-prescription medications.
Moreover, according to the product information fact sheets, none of the products in this article are suitable for children’s consumption.
How can I notice the effectiveness of CBD usage for ADHD?
You can judge whether CBD is effective for ADHD by paying attention to your symptoms. CBD is working if you notice a positive change in any of the following symptoms associated with ADHD:
- Less stress and anxiety
- Better sleep
- Reduced social anxiety
If you are taking CBD for ADHD, try to take notes of symptoms and how they changed before and after the usage. Also, talking to your healthcare provider can help you both track the CBD effectiveness using ADHD symptoms rating scales.
However, the effectiveness of CBD in ADHD is not established, and more research is needed to clarify whether it may address any of these concerns safely and effectively.
Best CBD products for ADHD — conclusion
It may be challenging to determine the best CBD products for ADHD. Thus, when compiling our list of top-rated brands, we stuck to the safety and quality criteria.
Remember that the effects of CBD vary from person to person — including benefits and side effects. Thus, considering the extremely limited evidence regarding cannabidiol's effectiveness and safety for ADHD, we strictly advise you to consult your doctor before consuming any CBD product on our list.
What are the other health benefits of CBD products?
CBD for sleep can help you wind down before bed.
CBD gummies for anxiety and stress may help in mood regulation.
CBD capsules may be your tasteless choice over oils.
CBD gummies for pain may provide relief in a more palatable manner.
CBD massage oil may be another way to help relax and relieve pain.
CBD for focus and energy might help keep optimal energy levels.
FAQ
Is CBD good for ADHD?
CBD may be good for ADHD-related symptoms, though its effectiveness for the core ADHD symptoms such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity has not been studied. There is limited evidence, and further studies are required to establish CBD safety for people with ADHD.
Is CBD used to treat ADHD?
No. ADHD, as a complex health condition, needs a specific approach with medications or behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. Although CBD may help with some ADHD-related difficulties, there is no clinical evidence to suggest its effectiveness in treating the core symptoms of this condition.
How might CBD affect children with ADHD?
The safety of CBD products in children is not established. However, as reported by parents, children taking CBD may show behavioral changes, including irritability. Children may also experience side effects, which have been reported in adults who consume CBD, like dry mouth, diarrhea, and dizziness.
Can you use CBD products in conjunction with other ADHD medications?
No. CBD may interact with prescription medications for ADHD. If you want to incorporate CBD into your routine while taking medications, consult your doctor to understand the possible interactions and avoid side effects.
How long does it take to observe any effects of CBD on ADHD?
Generally, the time it takes to observe the effects of CBD depends on individual health characteristics and responsiveness to CBD. There is no documented scientific evidence regarding the period CBD takes to benefit people with ADHD. Moreover, no studies looked at the effects of long-term CBD usage.
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- European Neuropsychopharmacology. Cannabinoids in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomised-controlled trial.
- Alternative Medicine Review. Complementary and Alternative Medical Therapies for Children with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
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- Psychiatry Research Communications. Systematic literature review of human studies assessing the efficacy of cannabidiol for social anxiety.
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