Cancer and CBD

x

Cancer is a collection of diseases that cause an overgrowth of cells that divide and spread into surrounding tissues beyond normal levels. Although it is common for the body to grow and divide cells in the body when necessary, cancer patients experience irregularities in this system that cause cells to divide without ceasing. This results in the formation of tumors — masses of tissue that can produce life-threatening consequences.

What Are the Symptoms of Cancer?

Once a tumor forms, it can spread to nearby tissue and invade other body parts and systems. As these tumors grow and spread, they can damage nearby organs and cause potentially fatal effects.

Because there are more than 100 known types of cancers, the symptoms of each will vary depending on which area of the body the cells affect most. The most common forms of cancer can impact the following body parts:

  • Stomach
  • Breasts
  • Kidneys
  • Lungs
  • Bladder
  • Bones
  • Thyroid
  • Cervix

Cancer can affect virtually any area of the body, and the types of cancer are not limited to those mentioned above. Although the signs and symptoms vary depending on the type of cancer, common side effects include:

  • Abnormal bleeding or discharge
  • Sores that fail to heal
  • Changes in bowel or bladder function
  • Blood-tinged saliva
  • Anemia
  • Unexplained lumps
  • Indigestion or difficulty swallowing

Again, the symptoms that manifest for patients with cancer will likely differ from case to case. Cancer is a serious illness and can be life-threatening. It’s essential to find a form of relief through therapy and medicinal options.

How Cancer Affects the Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system is mainly responsible for keeping the body in a state of homeostasis. The endocannabinoids scattered throughout the body play a crucial role in maintaining essential bodily functions, including pain management, immune system regulation and appetite balance. In patients with cancer, there may be an imbalance or disruption in this system, causing the body’s necessary functions to fail or malfunction.

The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in anti-tumor actions, ensuring cells are regulated so they divide and grow at normal levels. However, those with cancer may find the molecules generated in cell membranes are not efficiently managed or do not successfully follow their designated pathways to ensure proper functioning.

How CBD Regulates the Endocannabinoid System of Cancer Patients

Cannabis products help regulate the endocannabinoid system in those experiencing irregularities by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors. This allows system to get back on track and promote homeostasis.

Cannabinoids found within marijuana, such as CBD, can also proactively reduce tumor growth by controlling the signaling of essential cellular pathways in the body. The mutated genetic code of cancer patients influences cells to develop more rapidly and engage in altered functions. Not only can cannabinoids prevent these irregularities, but they also serve anti-tumor functions.

In theory, this means cannabinoids can help patients prevent the cancer cells in their body from spreading further in some instances.

Because cannabis promotes endocannabinoid regulation and activation, this form of medicinal therapy provides promising results for those who experience a disruption in this system. For those with cancer, CBD offers a viable treatment option for managing symptoms.

A recent study conducted in London showed that patients with advanced forms of cancer showed a positive response when being treated with synthetic CBD. The research, which was published in Anticancer Research, showed that when administered CBD twice a day over four years, over 90% of cancer patients saw a clinical response, with some even experiencing a reduction in tumor cell proliferation and tumor size.

Forms of CBD for Cancer Patients

Because cancer can often present a myriad of symptoms that significantly impair one’s ability to perform routine daily functioning, it’s crucial to find a treatment plan that provides the patient with targeted relief.
The properties of marijuana can effectively help patients fight viruses, block future cell growth and relieve muscle spasms. In many instances, medical cannabis can also treat nausea and vomiting — a common side effect of cancer.

If you or a loved one has cancer and are considering a form of medical cannabis to find relief, you’ll be happy to know there are a range of CBD options available.

One common method of ingestion is smoking, which provides rapid relief and is ideal for those experiencing onset pain, nausea or loss of appetite. Vaporizers also provide immediate effects without inducing throat discomfort or irritation.

Cancer patients may find it ideal to ingest their CBD products orally, too. Edibles, tinctures and capsules provide a slow-releasing effect that allows the patient to feel the benefits of cannabis for prolonged periods. Another advantage of edible CBD medicine is the ability to measure your dosage more accurately.

However, topicals such as lotions, balms and transdermal patches may not provide as much relief as orally consuming or inhaling your medicine. While topical products may help target specific areas of inflammation or pain, patients with cancer may find it more desirable to opt for a form of CBD they can ingest instead.

The Best CBD Products for Patients With Cancer

Selecting the right CBD variety will depend on the symptoms or side effects that manifest during your illness. If you have cancer, it’s best to choose a cannabis product aimed toward relieving pain, nausea, loss of appetite and fatigue.

The following cannabis strains are ideal for treating cancer symptoms and side effects:

  • Pineapple Express
  • Chocolope
  • Pennywise
  • Chernobyl
  • ACDC
  • Harlequin
  • Blackberry Kush

Learn More About CBD and Cancer at MarijuanaDoctors.com

At MarijuanaDoctors.com, we believe the key to finding a successful treatment plan starts off with education. That’s why we provide you with the resources you need to make the most informed decisions about your wellness plan. To learn more about CBD treatment for cancer and other conditions, count on us to supply you with the resources you need.

Learn More About Cancer

Learn more about Cancer and what makes medical marijuana an effective treatment for Cancer’s symptoms.