CBD as a Treatment for Cancer
A cancer diagnosis can be devastating. Fortunately research is always ongoing. There are many who have received a cancer diagnosis who have decided to take matters into their own hands. It is encouraging that many people have experienced positive results when using hemp-derived CBD for cancer treatment. Whether for symptoms of the disease or for the symptoms of the treatment, The usage of cannabidiol continues to increase as a supplemental treatment for many ailments across the board. CBD has shown great promise.
Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is one of several molecules found in the cannabis hemp plant. Even though cannabis has hundreds of chemical components, the two main components are THC and CBD. There is strong evidence suggesting that cannabis can aid in alleviating negative side effects for people with cancer. Because of this, the American Cancer Society supports the need for more research on cannabinoids for cancer pain.
How does CBD help?
One way that CBD may help those with cancer is by helping to stimulate appetite. Unfortunately, many patients being treated for cancer will oftentimes experience loss of appetite and nausea. As a consequence, these symptoms can make it incredibly challenging to maintain a healthy weight. There is strong evidence that ingesting cannabis that delivers THC and other cannabinoids to the bloodstream can help with stimulating appetite.
Cannabidiol may also be beneficial for those who experience vomiting and nausea, especially from chemotherapy treatment. Keep in mind that the anti-nausea effect appears to come more from the THC. Trying cannabis to help reduce nausea requires you to be aware of the potential psychoactive effects of the THC. The results achieved with low doses of THC help with lowering the risk of negative side effects.
Does CBD help with pain?
Another way CBD can help cancer patients is by aiding in pain relief. Both the cancer itself and the treatments can lead to excruciating pain. This pain can be brought on by nerve injury or pressure on internal organs. Many times, though, the root cause of pain is inflammation. When the pain is debilitating, it can even start becoming resistant to opioids. This is where CBD steps in. It indirectly acts on the CB 2 receptors. This may help with widespread pain relief when it reduces inflammation. In addition, THC acts on the CB 1 receptors, which can assist with the pain caused from nerve damage.
Even though the research is fairly new and the benefits of CBD are constantly being analyzed, clinical trials continue to reveal encourage data.
To learn more about CBD and cancer, listen to this recent podcast.