Marijuana has long been a controversial topic, with many people debating its safety and legality. But, could marijuana be a natural treatment for cancer? Recent research has suggested that some of the compounds found in marijuana can help reduce symptoms and side effects of cancer, as well as potentially slow the growth of certain types of cancer. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the potential benefits of medical marijuana for cancer and how it could be used as a natural treatment. We’ll also discuss the risks and potential side effects associated with marijuana use for cancer treatment.
How can marijuana be used to treat cancer?
Marijuana contains compounds called cannabinoids, which have been shown to have anti-tumor properties. Research suggests that these compounds can help to kill cancer cells and reduce the growth of tumors. Studies have shown that the cannabinoids in marijuana can help to reduce the side effects of cancer treatments, such as nausea and pain. Additionally, marijuana may help to reduce stress and improve quality of life by promoting relaxation and sleep.
Does CBD specifically kill cancer cells?
No, there is no evidence to suggest that CBD specifically kills cancer cells. However, research has shown that marijuana compounds, such as THC and CBD, may be effective in treating certain forms of cancer, including brain, breast, and prostate cancer. Additionally, marijuana has been found to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, which can make it an effective treatment for cancer.
What evidence exists to support the claim that marijuana kills cancer cells?
There is some evidence that marijuana can kill cancer cells and stop them from spreading. Studies in mice and rats have shown that cannabinoids may be able to kill cancer cells while protecting normal cells. In test tube studies, cannabinoids have been shown to reduce the growth of certain types of tumor cells. There is also some evidence that suggests that cannabinoids may be able to reduce the growth and spread of some types of cancer.
Are there any known side-effects of using cannabis to treat cancer?
Yes, there are some known side-effects of using cannabis to treat cancer. These include dry mouth, dizziness, low blood pressure, drowsiness, fatigue, and anxiety. Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting, and changes in appetite. Long-term marijuana use may also lead to addiction and dependence, and it is also linked to mental health issues such as depression and paranoia.
How does CBD compare to other anti-cancer treatments?
CBD has been studied for its potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and tumors. While it has not yet been proven to be a definitive anti-cancer treatment, many studies have found that CBD has anti-tumor effects, and can reduce the growth of some types of cancer cells. Additionally, CBD has been found to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting, that are common with other anti-cancer treatments.
Due to the pandemic, there have been delays in updating this article as new research emerges. The last update was May , to reflect the latest research and ongoing clinical trials. Cancer Research UK does not have an organisational policy on the legal status of cannabis, its use as a recreational drug, or its medical use diseases other than cancer. But we are supportive of properly conducted scientific research into cannabis and its derivatives that could benefit cancer patients and we will continue to monitor developments in the fields and evidence as it emerges. For the last couple of decades, one of the most talked about discussions online is whether or not cannabis can treat cancer. Unfortunately, there are many unreliable sources of information about cannabis, particularly online. Cannabis is a plant grown and cultivated commercially across the globe. It is known by many names depending on its preparation and quality, including marijuana, trees, pot, dank, grass, green, kush, weed, hemp, hash, loud, and herb. These usually refer to the dried form or resin of the flowers or leaves of the plant. There are multiple species of cannabis plant, including Cannabis sativa , Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis. For thousands of years, it has been used recreationally, religiously, and medically. Records from Ancient Egypt, India, and China show that physicians would use the plant as part of treating ailments such as haemorrhoids, insomnia, and for other pain relief. In the Western world, cannabis emerged as a mainstream medicine in the s and was noted for its sedative, anti-inflammatory, pain relief, and anticonvulsant effects. Cannabinoids are compounds that can interact with a system inside the body known as the endocannabinoid system. Researchers have found that cannabis contains over different chemical compounds, many of which are cannabinoids. However, cannabis is still classified as a class B drug in the UK, meaning that it is illegal to possess or supply it for personal recreational use. Medical cannabis is only legal when prescribed by a specialist consultant and GPs are not allowed to prescribe cannabis-derived medicines. NHS guidance states that medical cannabis should only be prescribed when there is clear published evidence of its benefit and other treatment options have been exhausted. These interact with molecules found on the surface of cells cannabinoid receptors. One type of is densely packed inside the brain and second type is found in our immune tissues. These compounds and receptors form the endocannabinoid system, a network that is involved in the control and regulation of multiple functions within the body including memory, sleep, learning, eating, pain control, inflammation, and immune system. As THC, CBD and other cannabinoids look similar to the endocannabinoids inside the body, they are able to interact with these receptors and affect how the system functions. This is why some researchers think that cannabinoids have the potential to control some of the most common and debilitating symptoms of cancer and its treatments, including nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and pain. This means that different strains of cannabis can have different effects on the body. Additionally, its effects also depend on how cannabis is taken, most commonly by inhaling smoking or vaping or ingesting edibles. When it is inhaled, THC enters the lungs where it passes directly into your bloodstream and then your brain quickly. The effects of inhaled cannabis fade faster than cannabis taken by mouth. The liver converts THC into a stronger compound and this combined with the THC from the original product adds to the intensity of the high. Some cannabis-based products are available on prescription. The following medicines are sometimes prescribed to help relieve symptoms. Nabilone is a drug developed from cannabis. It is licensed for treating severe sickness from chemotherapy that is not controlled by other anti-sickness drugs. It works very well for some people, but can cause drowsiness or dizziness in others. Researchers are looking into Sativex as a treatment for cancer related symptoms and for certain types of cancer. In the past, Cancer Research UK has funded research into cannabinoids, notably the work of Professor Chris Paraskeva in Bristol investigating the properties of cannabinoids as part of his research into the prevention and treatment of bowel cancer. He has published a number of papers detailing lab experiments looking at endocannabinoids as well as THC, and written a review looking at the potential of cannabinoids for treating bowel cancer. Our funding committees have previously received other applications from researchers who want to investigate cannabinoids but these failed to reach our high standards for funding. Unfortunately, some scammers are using the email address ukcancerresearchcentre gmail.
