Cannabis and Cancer
Marijuana is a medicinal herb that has been used as a homeopathic treatment for centuries. Still, only recently have scientists begun to understand how it can be used to fight cancer and chemotherapy symptoms.
With more scientists studying cannabis, we are beginning to unlock the plant’s potential as a possible cancer-fighting medication.
Here is what we know so far about how cannabis can be used for cancer.
Potentially Reduces Chemotherapy Symptoms
A small number of small studies have found that marijuana can help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting. It can also help relieve neuropathic pain, which is caused by damaged nerves.
These discoveries are huge for cancer patients who often suffer from debilitating chemotherapy side effects.
May Improve Appetite
Additionally, marijuana may help improve food intake in patients with cancer.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy often lose their appetite and cannot eat enough to get the nutrients their body needs. This can lead to weight loss and a decrease in muscle mass.
However, marijuana has been shown to increase appetite, which can help patients maintain their weight and muscle mass.
May Reduce Use of Pain Killers
Studies have also shown that cannabis may help reduce the use of painkillers.
This is important because pain killers often come with their own set of adverse side effects, such as addiction and liver damage.
The fact that marijuana can potentially help patients reduce their use of these harmful medications is yet another reason why it should be studied further as a cancer treatment.
Potentially Inhibits Cancer Cell Growth
More recently, scientists have reported that THC and other cannabinoids may even slow the growth of cancer cells and cause death in these cells.
This is exciting news, as these findings may suggest that marijuana may be able to shrink tumors and improve the prognosis for cancer patients.
Further research is needed to confirm these findings, but they provide hope that marijuana may one day be used as a cancer treatment.
Potential Side Effects
Although these findings are promising, marijuana should never be treated as a cure-all for cancer. Furthermore, marijuana use comes with its own set of potential side effects, such as anxiety and paranoia.
Other possible side effects include:
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate
Typically, these side effects are usually mild and go away after a few hours. However, they can be more severe if marijuana is used in high doses.
It is essential to consult with a medical professional before using marijuana for cancer treatment. They can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits of using cannabis.
The Bottom Line
With more research, we are uncovering new and exciting ways that cannabis can be used to improve the lives of cancer patients.
From reducing chemotherapy side effects to potentially shrinking tumors, marijuana is proving to be a versatile and powerful medicine.
We can only hope that we will continue to unlock the plant’s potential as a cancer-fighting medication with further research.
If you are interested in using cannabis for cancer treatment, be sure to consult with a medical professional to weigh the potential risks and benefits. A doctor will also be able to determine if marijuana is the best treatment option for your specific case.
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