This article was originally published on Grassdoor and appears here with permission.
Over the past decade, a wave of curiosity and scientific exploration has been surging around the potential of cannabis as a formidable treatment alternative for cancer. As our understanding of the therapeutic properties of cannabis deepens, it becomes increasingly essential to stay abreast of the latest findings about how cannabis can be helpful in cancer treatment.
This comprehensive article seeks to take you on a journey through the current landscape of cannabis and its promising role in cancer treatment. Prepare to delve into the intricacies of cannabis and cancer as we explore the scientific discoveries and potential breakthroughs that have ignited hope amongst cancer warriors and captivated the medical community.
An Overview Of Cannabis
To get an idea of the potential benefits of cannabis for cancer, you must understand its components and various forms of consumption. Cannabis contains numerous chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, with the two most popular ones out there.
- Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes. Different strains of cannabis can have varying effects due to the unique combinations and concentrations of cannabinoids and other compounds.
Sativa strains are typically associated with energizing and uplifting effects, while Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedating properties. Additionally, Hybrid strains combine characteristics of both Sativa and Indica varieties.
The best part is that you can consume cannabis in several ways, including smoking, vaping, edibles, and oils. Smoking and vaping deliver cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream through inhalation, providing rapid effects.
Edibles and oils, on the other hand, are metabolized in the digestive system, leading to delayed but potentially longer-lasting effects. While you can find various CBD oils for cancer in the market, the best edibles for cancer patients could be anything that is CBD-rich.
Cannabis And Cancer: The Science Explained Through Studies
Cancer, a complex and relentless disease, has challenged medical professionals and researchers for centuries. With the growing interest in alternative and complementary treatment modalities, cannabis has emerged as a great contender in cancer therapy. So, does weed cure cancer? While cannabis alone cannot cure cancer, it may possess anti-cancer properties.
Let’s navigate through the scientific nuances, clinical trials, and evolving understanding of how cannabis may play a role in alleviating symptoms, managing side effects, and potentially even inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
You must note that the research into the potential effects of cannabis on cancer is still in its early stages, but there have been promising findings from both preclinical and clinical studies. Let’s look at these studies and understand where cannabis comes in.
Pain Management
Pain, a distressing experience that profoundly affects the quality of life, is prevalent among cancer patients, impacting their emotional and physical well-being.
A 2022 Pharmacological Management of Cancer-Related Pain study reports that approximately half of the patients experience pain at the time of cancer diagnosis. Of those with advanced-stage cancer, nearly 80% endure moderate to severe pain levels. Chronic pain is commonly associated with cancer, resulting from the tumor or cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Despite advancements in pain management, many patients still receive …