Cancer is the name given to a group of diseases that are characterized by some of the body’s cells dividing without stopping and spreading into the surrounding tissue.
Cancer has been at the forefront of the medical cannabis movement with many seeking to prove through research cannabis’ efficacy in treating symptoms as well as showing promise in the ability to stop the proliferation of cancerous cells and provide a potential cure for cancer patients.
What is CBD and how does it differ from THC?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid found in hemp plants. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is a cannabinoid that isn’t psychoactive, meaning it does not affect the brain’s cognitive functions and won’t give you the “high” associated with marijuana (and its THC component).
According to a report from the World Health Organization, “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential…. To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.” Instead, CBD has a range of health applications including pain relief and inflammation reduction, epileptic seizures control, and possibly treatment of mental illnesses and addiction.
The use of CBD in complementary therapy for cancer patients
For cancer patients, cannabinoids have primarily been used as a part of palliative care to alleviate pain, relieve nausea and stimulate the appetite. When it comes to cancer treatment, the majority of the evidence available suggests that CBD therapies may have an amazing impact when used in combination with traditional cancer treatments.
CBD may help people with cancer by:
Stimulating appetite: Many cancer patients who are going through cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, may experience nausea and loss of appetite. These symptoms can make it difficult for them to maintain a healthy weight. CBD as a natural appetite stimulant helps the patient stay nourished, which positively impacts the immune system and supports the body in fighting the disease.
Anti-nausea effect: Chemotherapy patients often experience nausea and vomiting. While vomiting can be pharmacologically controlled, nausea is reported as being more distressing because it is a continuous sensation. For those patients, CBD offers relief by alleviating nausea or decreasing its severity.
Pain relief: In cancer patients, pain may be caused by inflammation, pressure on internal organs, or nerve injury and pain management is an integral part of a cancer treatment protocol. In the most severe cases, even such powerful pain relievers as opioids may not be sufficient. CBD indirectly acts on the CB2 receptors, which may help to relieve widespread pain by reducing inflammation.
Prevention and hope for a cure
Numerous cell culture and animal studies have identified antitumor effects of cannabinoids in various cancer types. In this 2016 study, researchers noted that the use of cannabinoids shows promise in the fight against cancer. The authors found that cannabinoids seem to inhibit the growth of many different types of tumor cells in both test tubes and animal models.
Although there is not sufficient data available to make claims that CBD alone can cure cancer, the CBD compound can help manage symptoms that occur due to this disease or its treatment.
Learn more about Medical marijuana treatment in Gainesville, FL
Advanced Pain Medical Center is one of the facilities that offer medical marijuana treatment methods in the Gainesville area, FL. Get in touch with us to learn about our “targeting the source, not the symptom” philosophy” and how medical marijuana can help with your medical conditions. We are available for you Monday – Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm at 352-888-PAIN.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
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