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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound that comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. It may help treat diabetes. However, using CBD products can come with risks, and CBD may not suit individuals with certain health conditions or those who are pregnant or nursing.

There is currently no cure for diabetes, but a person can control the condition with diabetes medications such as insulin, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, and biguanides.

Some research has looked into whether or not CBD oil can also help with diabetes, though it is not currently a regulated treatment for this condition.

This article explores whether or not CBD can help with diabetes, some safety considerations, and a few products to consider.

Is CBD legal? Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal federally but still illegal under some state laws. Cannabis-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are illegal federally but legal under some state laws. Check local legislation, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved nonprescription CBD products, which may be inaccurately labeled.

Cannabis sativa, a plant that people may call cannabis or hemp, contains two active ingredients: delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD.

THC contains psychoactive properties, so it may cause euphoria.

CBD, on the other hand, is non-euphoric, though it may contain small traces of THC. People using CBD will not experience the high feeling associated with cannabis use.

Learn more about CBD and THC here.

Types of CBD

There are three types of CBD products These are:

  • Full-spectrum CBD: This type of CBD contains naturally occurring extracts from the cannabis plant and up to 0.3% THC.
  • Broad-spectrum CBD: This type of CBD consists of naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant and does not contain traces of THC.
  • CBD isolate: This is the pure form of CBD, which is free of THC, plant compounds, and cannabinoids. It is odorless and has no taste.

Learn about the differences between full- and broad-spectrum CBD here.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects a person’s blood glucose, or sugar, regulation.

Glucose comes from the food people eat, which the body then releases into the bloodstream. When a person’s blood sugar level goes up, the pancreas releases insulin and helps glucose get into the body’s cells to promote energy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that when a person’s body does not produce enough insulin or their cells do not respond to insulin, they can develop diabetes. As a result, a person with diabetes may have too much sugar in their bloodstream.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), having a high blood sugar level can increase the risk of other health conditions, including:

Types of diabetes

There are three types of diabetes. These are:

  • Type 1 diabetes: Type 1 diabetes develops when the body does not make insulin, and people typically receive a diagnosis of this type during childhood. The CDC state that 5–10% of people with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.
  • Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not make or use insulin well. The CDC says that 90–95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
  • Gestational diabetes: This type of diabetes can develop during pregnancy but usually resolves after the person gives birth.

The ADA claims that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate CBD products for diabetes.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, people with arthritis are more likely to develop diabetes than those with a healthy blood sugar level. A 2017 study looked at the effects of CBD in rats with osteoarthritis. It found that CBD reduced both inflammation and pain associated with the condition.

In another study from 2019, researchers found that a 30-day CBD treatment improved memory performance and reduced nerve inflammation in rats with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion and diabetes.

The researchers behind a 2015 study found that CBD reduced inflammation and neurotoxicity in rats with diabetes. As a result, the researchers concluded that CBD products might benefit people with diabetic retinopathy.

Possible side effects of CBD

One 2017 review states that CBD can cause:

  • fatigue
  • nausea
  • changes in appetite
  • changes in weight

Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:

  • Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe and high quality, clearly labeled ingredients. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
  • Dosage: MNT chooses products that must clearly state the CBD dosage.
  • Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a dosage.
  • Third-party labs: MNT chooses products that must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
  • Available certificate of analysis: MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) after receiving its third-party lab results.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Best with CBG: CBDfx CBD + CBG Oil Wellness Tincture

  • Price: $39.99 – $199.99
  • Product strengths: 500 – 6,000 mg
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • THC-free: yes

This vegan, gluten-free product is available in 30 ml or 60 ml bottles. The 30 ml bottles are available in strengths of either 500 mg, 1000 mg, or 2000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD per bottle.

The 60 ml bottles are available in strengths of either 4000 mg or 6000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD per bottle.

The product contains cannabigerol (CBG), a non-euphoric ingredient derived from the cannabis plant.

This oil also contains curcumin and coenzyme Q10. A 2017 review states that curcumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Coenzyme Q10 is also an antioxidant and helps to generate energy within the body’s cells.

The manufacturer suggests that people place the drops under their tongue and hold them there for 20–60 seconds. It states that a person can use this tincture daily.

Learn more about CBDfx here.

Best organic: Joy Organics Broad Spectrum CBD Tincture

  • Price: $44.95 – $129.98
  • Product strengths: 450 – 2,250 mg
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • THC-free: yes

This tincture contains 30 servings and is available in strengths ranging from 15 to 75 mg of CBD per serving.

Joy Organics states that this product is:

  • laboratory-tested
  • THC-free
  • cruelty-free

The manufacturer also states that this tincture may help with stress management, provide a sense of calmness, and support a good night’s sleep.

The company also provides a 90-day satisfaction guarantee and free, carbon-neutral shipping for orders over $50.

Learn more about Joy Organics here.

Best for purity: NuLeaf Naturals CBD Oil

  • Price: $23.99 – $287.20
  • Product strengths: 300 – 6,000 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • THC-free: no

NuLeaf Naturals CBD Oil contains 30 mg per 10 drop (0.5 ml) serving, which NuLeaf recommends as a starting dose. Users can then increase to 60 mg of CBD per 1 ml serving.

The product is available in 5 different size bottles starting from 300 mg.

The product contains cannabinoids, terpenes, essential oils, and other phytonutrients. The manufacturer uses its CO2 extraction technique to ensure that no heat or solvents affect the quality of the products.

NuLeaf claims its products are free of pesticides, heavy metals, and mycotoxins. This CBD oil is full-spectrum.

The company provides a 60-day guarantee. Customers cannot return used or open products.

Best broad-spectrum: cbdMD CBD Oil Tincture

  • Price: $29.99 – $209.99
  • Product strengths: 300 -7,500 mg
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • THC-free: yes

cbdMD’s CBD Oil Tincture is available in strengths ranging from 10 mg of CBD per 1 ml serving to 166.5 mg per 1 ml serving.

cbdMD claims that its products are:

  • vegan
  • gluten-free
  • Good Manufacturing Practice-certified
  • THC-free

The manufacturer also states that the oil may help support a sense of calm, promote exercise recovery, and allow better stress management.

The products are available in various flavors, including berry, orange, and mint.

This product is a tincture that a person should drink or mix with their favorite drink. The website states that people should not apply the product to the skin as it may not absorb as well as an actual CBD massage oil.

The manufacturer warns that this product can cause drowsiness.

Learn more about cbdMD here.

Best low cost: Lazarus Naturals Classic High Potency CBD Tincture

  • Price: $24 – $120
  • Product strengths: 750 – 6,000 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • THC-free: no

This tincture is a full-spectrum CBD oil that consists of 50 mg of CBD per ml. It comes in 15 ml, 60 ml, and 120 ml bottles.

Lazarus Naturals suggests that people start with a 1ml serving providing 50 mg of CBD. A person can then increase the dose after 2 hours, as necessary.

The manufacturer also warns that people who have received advice not to eat grapefruit should contact a doctor before using this product.

This product is cheaper than many others on the market, making this an affordable choice for people on a budget.

Learn more about Lazarus Naturals here.

Best isolate: Medterra Isolate CBD Oil

  • Price: $39.99 – $199.99
  • Product strengths: 500 – 6,000 mg
  • CBD type: isolate
  • THC-free: yes

This CBD isolate product is available in strengths of 16 mg, 33 mg, and 100 mg of CBD per ml serving. It is available in three different size bottles; 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 fluid ounces (fl oz.)

Medterra claims that its products are free from:

  • THC
  • pesticides
  • GMOs

The manufacturer also claims that it forms part of the United States Hemp Authority Program, and that its CBD products comply with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture Hemp Licensing Program.

This isolate CBD oil is an ideal option for people who undergo medical tests and cannot have any traces of THC in their bloodstream.

Learn more about Medterra here.

Best bulk buy: Sabaidee Super Good Vibes CBD Oil

  • Price: $119.95
  • Product strengths: 1,000 mg
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • THC-free: yes

This product provides approximately 33.5 mg of CBD in every 30 ml serving. The product comes in a 1 oz. bottle and a person can save money by buying in multiples of up to 6.

Sabaidee states that their oil contains the following natural products and nutrients, though they do not state the amounts in each serving:

  • terpenes
  • vitamins
  • omega fatty acids
  • trace minerals

The manufacturer uses CO2 extraction technology to help eliminate unwanted amounts of THC and other elements.

Sabaidee suggests that people use the oil one to three times per day.

The company offers a full refund for returns within 30 days of receiving the product.

Best full-spectrum: RoyalCBD CBD Oil

  • Price: $149
  • Product strengths: 1,000 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • THC-free: no

RoyalCBD’s CBD Oil is a full-spectrum CBD product that contains 33 mg of CBD per 1 ml serving. It includes hemp oil extract, which contains vitamin E.

A recent study found that high dose vitamin A in combination with vitamin E supplements and zinc may improve insulin secretion in people with type 2 diabetes.

The manufacturer recommends that people squeeze a few drops beneath the tongue and swallow after one to two minutes.

This product is gluten-free. The company provides a 30-day money back guarantee.

Best natural flavors: Gold Bee CBD Oil

  • Price: $130 – $230
  • Product strengths: 1,200 – 2,400 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • THC-free: no

Gold Bee’s tincture is a full-spectrum CBD oil that is available in concentrations of 40-80 mg of CBD per serving.

It is available in kiwi and other natural flavors and contains CBD, MCT oil, and terpenes. The kiwi flavor also includes honey and stevia extracts.

One study explored the benefits of combining honey and prescription medications in rats with diabetes. It found that these enhanced antioxidant defenses and reduced oxidative kidney damage.

Gold Bee claims that this product is vegan. However, it contains honey, which vegans typically avoid.

The manufacturer suggests that people drop CBD oil under the tongue and swallow it after 60 seconds. They also state that people can move the oil around their mouth with their tongue to help the oil absorb into the bloodstream.

Best for beginners: Populum Full-Spectrum Hemp CBD Oil

  • Price: $59 – $279
  • Product strengths: 250 – 2000 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • THC-free: no

This product comes in a 1 fl oz bottle, and is available in strengths of 8 mg, 17 mg, 33 mg, and 66 mg of CBD per serving.

Populum states that its products are:

  • vegan
  • gluten-free
  • non-GMO

Poplum recommends that people start with a single dose of 8 mg to 8.5 mg per day. They state that a person can adjust the dose after a week if needed. However, they recommend that people stick to the same CBD routine for 30 days.

Low dose servings make this a suitable CBE product for beginners or people wanting to gradually adjust their dosage.

The table below compares the products in this article on key features:

PriceDosage
per
serving
Strength
sizes
THC-freeType
CBDfx$39.99 –
$199.99
33.5 –
201 mg
500 –
6,000 mg
yesbroad-
spectrum
Joy
Organics
$44.95 –
$129.98
15 –
75 mg
450 –
2,250 mg
yesbroad-
spectrum
NuLeaf
Naturals
$23.99 –
$287.20
30 –
60 mg
300 –
6,000 mg
nofull-
spectrum
cbdMD$29.99 –
$209.99
10 –
166.5 mg
300 –
7,500 mg
yesbroad-
spectrum
Lazarus
Naturals
$24 –
$120
50 mg750 –
6,000 mg
nofull-
spectrum
Medterra$39.99 –
$199.99
16 –
100 mg
500 –
6,000 mg
yesisolate
Sabaidee$119.9533.5 mg1,000 mgyesbroad-
spectrum
RoyalCBD$14933 mg1,000 mgnofull-
spectrum
Gold
Bee
$130 –
$230
40 –
80 mg
1,200 –
2,400 mg
nofull-
spectrum
Populum$59 –
$279
8 –
66 mg
250 –
2,000 mg
nofull-
spectrum

Below are some of the top questions regarding using CBD for diabetes:

Does CBD oil have a direct effect on blood sugar?

No scientific studies show a direct effect of CBD on blood sugar.

Do doctors recommend CBD oil for diabetics?

Some doctors may recommend CBD oil for neuropathic pain, which may affect some people with diabetes.

However, there is currently insufficient research regarding the efficacy of CBD and how it interacts with medications to control blood glucose levels.

Is it safe to use CBD oil daily?

A 2020 systematic review investigated the safety and efficacy of different CBD dosages in adults. The study concluded that there were insufficient data regarding the safety of CBD. However, the authors noted that most studies reported no adverse events following acute administration of CBD and mild to moderate effects following chronic administration of CBD.

Anyone considering taking CBD for their diabetes should consult their doctor to determine dosages and frequency of administration.

Diabetes is a condition that develops when a person has a high sugar level in their bloodstream.

Although there is currently no cure for diabetes, a person can control and treat diabetes with medications to alleviate the symptoms and manage their blood sugar level.

Some evidence suggests that CBD products may help people with diabetes control their condition.

People who are pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications should seek medical advice before using any CBD products.