Symptoms
Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot process food properly for energy and blood sugar is unregulated. There are two types of diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes the body’s immune system attacks insulin producing cells in the pancreas, thus leading to lower levels of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is known as insulin resistance. The body doesn’t produce enough insulin or does not properly use the insulin and blood sugar levels build up.
People with diabetes may experience: increased thirst and hunger; dry mouth; frequent urination; weight loss; fatigue; headaches; tingling or numbness in hands or feet; recurring infections.
Benefits
Although cannabis cannot create insulin, it can help address Type 1 diabetes by calming the immune system and stopping the body from attacking itself. CBD can delay the cells that attack insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, as well as decrease inflammation. Cannabis use has the potential to delay the condition as well as improve overall quality of life.
With Type 2 diabetes, cannabis aids in the reduction of inflammation and also impacts metabolism. CBD as well as THC-V contain appetite supressing properties which can help people gain control over their diets. CBD shows potential in reducing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, decreasing fat build up. THC-V then kick-starts the metabolism, and laboratory studies have shown it can restore insulin signalling in cells that were resistant.
Patients who used cannabis were shown to have lower blood glucose levels, reduced blood pressure and inflammation markers, and increased fasting insulin. Cannabis can also assist in treating other side effects of diabetes such as nerve damage and depression.
Treatment
Most strains contain trace amounts of THC-V, with sativa strains generally having the highest amounts of it. Daily use of cannabis through oils, edibles, and/or inhalation regulates blood sugar levels as well as the symptoms associated with diabetes. CBD oils can be used in cooking (be careful not to overheat them), and edible tinctures are an excellent and easy method of administration. The ingestion of cannabis can reduce long term symptoms associated with diabetes. Smoking or vaping is fast-acting and will alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue. Be sure to stick with strains high in the terpenes caryophyllene and myrcene for their additional anti-inflammatory properties.
Method of intake
We recommend smoking flower, vaping, CBD oils, Mukwa Wellbeing and Balance tinctures.
