Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is a real pain—literally and figuratively. For those managing diabetes: nerve pain, numbness, and discomfort can make daily life a struggle. Traditional treatments don’t always hit the mark, leaving many on the lookout for better options. However, a recent study published in June of 2024 may shed light on a promising new approach involving a combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and beta-caryophyllene that could change the game for those suffering from neuropathy.
Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage caused by diabetes. The condition most often affects the feet and legs. Neuropathy can feel like anything from a loss of feeling or numbness to sensations of burning, tingling or weakness. The cause of diabetic neuropathy typically results from prolonged high blood sugar levels which can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. While most people experience neuropathy in their feet, it can also spread along the nervous system and can affect hands, legs and arms. If left untreated, the consequences are often severe and can include a total loss of sensation or even, amputation in extreme cases.
The Study: Cannabidiol and Beta-Caryophyllene in Focus
A groundbreaking study published this year from researchers at Florida A&M University and Wayne State University School of Medicine entitled,. "Cannabidiol and Beta-Caryophyllene Combination Attenuates Diabetic Neuropathy by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome/NFκB through the AMPK/sirT3/Nrf2 Axis" explored the effects of CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene on diabetic neuropathy. While the title can be confusing, we will break down the various elements of this study and its possible implications on the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. While you may be familiar with the term “cannabidiol” or CBD, you may not be as familiar with the terpene that was included in the study, Beta-Caryophyllene.
What is Beta-Caryophyllene?
Beta-caryophyllene is a fascinating terpene known for its distinctive spicy, woody aroma, often found in various herbs and spices. Beta-caryophyllene has a unique ability to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the body, particularly the CB2 receptor. This terpene is prominently present in foods like black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, adding a warm, aromatic flavor to these spices. Additionally, it can be found in various other plants, including rosemary and oregano, making it a versatile component of both culinary and medicinal applications. Beta-caryophyllene is also found in various strains of cannabis and hemp, particularly blueberry strains such as Blue Dream. Its presence in everyday spices not only enhances flavor but may also contribute to health benefits, offering a natural way to incorporate its potential therapeutic properties into your diet.
Why are terpenes important?
Terpenes can enhance the entourage effect because they interact with the same receptors as CBD. The entourage effect refers to the combination of all the cannabinoids, terpenes and fats in the hemp plant that maximizes the benefits of each component. You can think of these elements working together similar to a football team. If you only have a good offensive line up, you may struggle to win the game because no matter how many points you score, the opponents would score just as much. You can still win, but not as easily. In this analogy, you can think of the various cannabinoids as positions in your offensive line up. Terpenes and fats make up your defensive line up and special teams. When you have a well rounded team, your chances of winning increase greatly. This is the same for the entourage effect. The entourage effect leverages the best qualities of each element and leads to more effective and powerful products.
The Inhibition of Pathways:
So, looking back at the title of this study "Cannabidiol and Beta-Caryophyllene Combination Attenuates Diabetic Neuropathy by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome/NFκB through the AMPK/sirT3/Nrf2 Axis", we have discussed both cannabidiol (CBD) and Beta-Caryophyllene as well as the entourage effect which refers to the combination of these two components. We have also discussed what diabetic neuropathy is and how it impacts the lives of many people. Now, what does the rest of the title of this study even mean?
Let’s break down the rest of the title. So first, when we say "inhibiting," we mean slowing down or stopping these processes from going haywire. Inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome and NFκB through the AMPK/sirT3/Nrf2 axis is like hitting the brakes on chronic inflammation and stress in your body. NLRP3 and NFxB are both multiprotein complexes of the immune system responsible for inflammation responses. These proteins are responsible for ramping up inflammation and stress. When working properly, these help you fight off infections but can be destructive if they are overactive. Now, here’s where the AMPK/sirT3/Nrf2 axis comes into play. The axis is an energy manager in your cells. Think of the axis as a road running through your body. AMPK is similar to a traffic light, when it activates, sirT3 is the green light that is shown allowing Nrf2 to start moving along your body. Nrf2 is like a superhero for your cells, helping them fight off damage by boosting antioxidants and keeping NLRP3 and NFxB in check. So, by turning on this protective pathway, you’re helping your body keep inflammation and stress in check, which is great news for overall health and reducing the risk of inflammation-related diseases such as diabetic neuropathy.
Key Findings of the Study on CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene:
- Effective Combination Therapy: The study highlights that both CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene, when used individually or in combination, may significantly reduce the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. When administered to diabetic rats, this combination treatment led to notable improvements in mechanical and thermal pain sensitivity, suggesting a reduction in pain hypersensitivity.
- Reduction in Oxidative Stress: High glucose levels can wreak havoc by ramping up oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are critical contributors to diabetic neuropathy. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of your cells. The study found that CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene in combination helped mitigate these effects by reducing mitochondrial membrane potential loss, reactive oxygen species, and mitochondrial superoxides. Healthy mitochondria allows your cellular energy factory to keep running smoothly and helps to keep your body in balance.
- Enhanced Mitochondrial Health: One of the standout results was the positive impact on mitochondrial quality control. The combination of CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene promoted autophagy (the process of cleaning out damaged cells) and mitochondrial biogenesis (the creation of new mitochondria). This action helps maintain mitochondrial health, crucial for nerve function and overall well-being.
- Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: The study demonstrated that CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This was evident from the significant upregulation of key protective factors like AMPK, sirT3, and Nrf2, and the downregulation of inflammatory markers such as NLRP3 inflammasome and NFκB.
- The Science Behind the Magic: The researchers identified that the beneficial effects of CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene are mediated through the AMPK/sirT3/Nrf2 signaling axis. This pathway is essential for managing cellular stress responses, enhancing mitochondrial function, and reducing inflammation.
Implications for Possible Treatment
For those grappling with diabetic neuropathy, this study could be a game-changer. The combination of CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene offers a multi-faceted approach to reducing the pain associated with diabetic neuropathy by addressing several underlying mechanisms simultaneously. Not only does the study show it may help alleviate pain and discomfort, but it also tackles the oxidative stress and inflammation that drive the disease's progression.
This study provides compelling evidence for considering CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene as viable treatment options for diabetic neuropathy. Of course, while these results are definitely exciting, further clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential benefits in a broader patient population.
Products That Combine CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene
Discover CBD has many CBD options available online that contain both CBD and terpenes, such as Beta-Caryophyllene. If you are looking for the best CBD for pain relief, typically customers will choose a product that leverages the entourage effect. The most concentrated and pure CBD oil that contains minor cannabinoids and terpenes is the Active CBD oil Gold Oil. Taken directly under the tongue, the Active CBD oil Gold Oil absorbs quickly and takes effect faster than other methods like CBD gummies.
If you are able to take small amount of THC, customers typically prefer to use the Active CBD oil Full Spectrum Capsules. Full Spectrum CBD capsules will contain a trace amount of THC in addition to the terpenes like Beta-Caryophyllene, a potent amount of CBD and trace amount of minor cannabinoids. Full Spectrum CBD capsules for pain last longer in the body, typically up to 8-10 hours for most people. Full Spectrum CBD capsules are an easy way to add all day relief into your daily routine.
While there is more limited absorbed through the skin than directly into the bloodstream, we often see customers applying the Active CBD Full Spectrum CBD salve directly onto their feet and legs. Often customers using a topical will combine this method with taking a CBD tincture or CBD capsule to attack the pain both internally and externally.
Conclusion
As we continue to explore the world of CBD and its potential benefits, this study is a reminder that science is always pushing boundaries and finding solutions to the questions we dare to ask. With its potential to alleviate pain, improve mitochondrial health, and reduce inflammation, this combination therapy represents a significant advancement in the quest for more effective and natural treatments for diabetic neuropathy.
For those looking to explore CBD and Beta-Caryophyllene as part of their therapeutic regimen, it's essential to consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medication, supplement or changes to your wellness routine.
