CBD is a naturally occurring compound in the Cannabis plant. THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol is the other compound in the Cannabis plant and is responsible for producing the ‘high’ associated with marijuana use. Unlike THC, CBD does not have any psychoactive properties.
The results of using CBD to treat symptoms of diabetes, anxiety, epilepsy, and a number of similar health problems are showing positive results. That said, research into the detailed effects and benefits of CBD is still ongoing.
Among the different areas of research, the scientific community is also attempting to nail down whether and how CBD can help treat or lower the risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. A number of human and animal-based studies have looked at the effects CBD has on insulin levels, inflammation, level of blood glucose or sugar, etc. Studies are also looking into the various complications caused by diabetes such as pain linked diabetic neuropathy, etc.
CBD May Help Prevent Diabetes, Pain, and Inflammation
Research so far has shown that CBD can help improve the symptoms of diabetes like pain and inflammation. However, it has not conclusively shown to be effective against blood glucose levels and levels of HDL cholesterol.
While type 1 and type 2 diabetes are different in terms of cause and treatment, they both have the same underlying problem – a higher volume of glucose, or sugar, in the blood.
The human body uses insulin to manage glucose levels in the blood. Insulin acts as a means to break down glucose in the blood to use as energy. Approximately 5% of people diagnosed with diabetes have type 1 where the body produces little or no insulin. This allows glucose to remain in the bloodstream and leads to injuries to vessels and leaving organs without energy.
Type 2 is another form of diabetes that develops when cells in the human body stop producing insulin. This is known as insulin resistance and it also results in too much glucose circulating in the blood. Insulin resistance also leads to higher levels of inflammation in the body.
Though results from research are mixed, CBD may help in the treatment of symptoms and complications related to diabetes. CBD can help with –
Preventing Diabetes
There have been no clinical trials to test whether CBD oil consumption can actually lower the risk of developing diabetes in humans. That said a study conducted on non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice found that “CBD treatment significantly reduces the incidence of diabetes in NOD mice from an incidence of 86% in non-treated control mice to an incidence of 30% in CBD-treated mice.”
Pain
A recent study published in 2017 found that CBD was helpful in reducing inflammation and nerve pain related to osteoarthritis in rats.
The Journal of Experimental Medicine published another study in May 2012 showed that “Certain types of nonpsychoactive cannabinoids can potentiate glycine receptors”. This means that CBD may help in suppressing chronic neuropathic and inflammatory pain.
Inflammation
The use of CBD as an anti-inflammatory has been under research for a few years now. A study published in 2007 focused on inflammation triggered by a higher level of glucose in the blood. Researchers were able to find the positive effects of CBD on a number of different inflammation markers in test subjects.
Using CBD Oil
CBD oil is produced by extracting CBD from the host plant and mixing it with another oil like hemp seed oil or coconut oil to act as a carrier. There are various forms of CBD that can be used to relieve the troublesome symptoms of diabetes –
Smokeables
Smoking or vaping CBD oil via e-cigarettes or vape pens is the quickest way to feel the effects of CBD. Smoking allows CBD compounds to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. That said, smoking or vaping may lead to other unwanted side-effects.
Tinctures & Oils
Oils can be placed directly under the tongue via a dropper for quick absorption into the bloodstream. CBD oils and drops can also be added to some foods and drinks.
Edibles
CBD candies like gummies and chocolates are a great option for users who are not comfortable with using soft gels or pills. However, it may take a while to observe the effects of CBD if consumed via edibles because of the digestion process.
Lotions and Creams
Topicals and CBD creams are applied to the skin and are used especially for relief from joint and muscular pain. Unlike the other forms of CBD, topicals and creams usually do not enter the bloodstream. They trigger localized cannabinoid receptors located in the skin.
CBD Oil Dosages
It is best to speak with your doctor or a licensed medical professional before starting with any CBD product or brand. A doctor will be best placed to recommend a product and the right dose depending on your medical history and treatment goals.
As with any other supplement, it is best to start with a lower dose and gradually work your way up till you find the dose that works for you.
Conclusion
Initial studies have explored the use of CBD as an alternative to treat the symptoms of diabetes. While the results of this research have been positive, it is important to call out that a major chunk of the research has been performed on animal subjects.
Wide-scale studies on the effects of CBD on humans suffering from diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes is still pending.
Disclaimer
CBD products that are derived from Hemp and contain less than the prescribed .3 percent of THC are legal per federal law. However, certain state laws may still deem it illegal.
CBD products that are derived from Marijuana are illegal per federal law but remain legal under laws of certain states.
It is advisable to check the appropriate state laws in case of travel. It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not approved by the FDA.