Cancer is the leading cause of death around the world. It is caused by rapidly dividing abnormal cells, which spreads to other organs and tissues. A permanent cure for cancer is still not found yet. Most cancer treatment aims at controlling the spread of the tumor cells to other organs of the body.
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are the two most common types of cancer treatment. But they cause some effects like nausea, pain, vomiting, loss of appetite, insomnia, etc. Prescription drugs used for alleviating these side effects are not so effective and may sometimes worsen them.
Recent studies have shown that CBD can alleviate these side effects effectively and now more and more people are starting to use CBD products during their cancer treatment. CBD is a cannabinoid compound present in the Cannabis Sativa. It has so many therapeutic properties, which makes it one of the popular cannabinoid compounds.
CBD For Cancer Treatment
There is some evidence that shows CBD and other cannabinoids reduce the growth of tumors in some animal models. Studies have also found that CBD enhances the potency of certain drugs used in chemotherapy and helps to control cancer.
A study in 2019 looked at the effects of CBD and other cannabinoids on pancreatic cancer and found that the cannabinoids slowed down tumor growth and its invasion of other tissues and organs. The study also found that cannabinoids induce tumor cell death.
Another study in 2014 found that CBD may help to treat colon cancer by inhibiting the spread of colorectal cancer cells. These studies only address the potential of CBD and other natural cannabinoids to treat cancer. More specific studies on human subjects are needed to conclusively suggest CBD as an effective remedy for cancer.
CBD As A Complementary Treatment
Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are the most common side effects of chemotherapy. These side effects can lead to weight loss, which is not ideal for cancer treatment because a healthy body is necessary for the success of the treatment.
Cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy also reported neuropathic pain that may cause insomnia. Research suggests the use of CBD for easing neuropathic pain and promoting appetite during cancer treatment.
CBD can be consumed in several ways to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy. You can use CBD edibles like gummies or capsules, CBD tinctures, or even CBD vapes for taking CBD into your body.