The use of marijuana as a medicinal treatment has been a subject of debate for many years. Despite its controversial status, recent research has shown that marijuana may be nature’s cancer killer. In this article, we will explore the evidence that backs up this claim, as well as the potential risks associated with using marijuana as a cancer treatment. We will also discuss the legal implications of using marijuana as a medical treatment, and the potential for further research into this area.
Does the type of marijuana used affect its ability to kill cancer?
Yes, the type of marijuana used does affect its ability to kill cancer. Different marijuana strains contain different amounts and combinations of cannabinoids, which are the active compounds responsible for the medicinal properties of marijuana. Therefore, certain types of marijuana may be more effective than others at killing cancer cells.
What evidence exists that suggests marijuana can effectively kill cancer?
There is growing evidence that suggests marijuana compounds can effectively kill cancer cells and reduce tumor size. A study published in the journal Molecular Cancer Therapeutics found that cannabinoids, compounds found in marijuana, can induce cell death in certain types of cancer cells. Additionally, a study published in the journal Oncogene found that THC and CBD, two compounds found in marijuana, have anti-tumor properties. Finally, a study published in the International Journal of Oncology found that THC can inhibit the growth of glioma cells, a type of tumor found in the brain and spine.
What are the risks associated with using marijuana to treat cancer?
Marijuana has been found to have some anti-cancer properties, but this does not mean it is without risk. Possible risks include an increased risk of mental health problems, addiction, and respiratory illnesses. Marijuana may also interact with certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, and may not be as effective as other treatments. Additionally, marijuana may reduce other cancer treatments’ effectiveness and can cause negative side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and changes in appetite.
Are there any side effects associated with using marijuana to treat cancer?
Yes, there are potential side effects associated with using marijuana to treat cancer. These side effects can include dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, and impaired concentration. Additionally, marijuana can interact with other medications and may cause an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using marijuana to treat cancer.
How does CBD work to kill cancer cells?
cells
CBD is one of the active compounds found in marijuana that works to kill cancer cells. Studies have demonstrated that CBD has the ability to reduce the growth of cancer cells, prevent them from spreading, and even kill them. CBD is thought to work by targeting the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating many of the body’s functions. It is believed that CBD disrupts the communication between cancer cells and other cells, preventing them from growing and spreading.
Marijuana is the name given to the dried buds and leaves of varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant, which can grow wild in warm and tropical climates throughout the world and be cultivated commercially. It goes by many names, including pot, grass, cannabis, weed, hemp, hash, marihuana, ganja, and dozens of others. Marijuana has been used in herbal remedies for centuries. Scientists have identified many biologically active components in marijuana. These are called cannabinoids. The two best studied components are the chemicals deltatetrahydrocannabinol often referred to as THC , and cannabidiol CBD. Other cannabinoids are being studied. This means that they cannot legally be prescribed, possessed, or sold under federal law. But the use of marijuana to treat some medical conditions is legal under state laws in many states. Dronabinol, a pharmaceutical form of THC, and a man-made cannabinoid drug called nabilone are approved by the FDA to treat some conditions. Different compounds in marijuana have different actions in the human body. For example, deltatetrahydrocannabinol THC seems to cause the high reported by marijuana users, and also can help relieve pain and nausea , reduce inflammation, and can act as an antioxidant. Cannabidiol CBD can help treat seizures, can reduce anxiety and paranoia, and can counteract the high caused by THC. Different cultivars strains or types and even different crops of marijuana plants can have varying amounts of these and other active compounds. This means that marijuana can have different effects based on the strain used. The effects of marijuana also vary depending on how marijuana compounds enter the body. The most common ways to use marijuana are in food edible marijuana and by smoking or vaping it inhaled marijuana . A number of small studies of smoked marijuana found that it can be helpful in treating nausea and vomiting from cancer chemotherapy. A few studies have found that inhaled smoked or vaporized marijuana can be helpful treatment of neuropathic pain pain caused by damaged nerves. Studies have long shown that people who took marijuana extracts in clinical trials tended to need less pain medicine. Some animal studies also suggest certain cannabinoids may slow growth and reduce spread of some forms of cancer. There have been some early clinical trials of cannabinoids in treating cancer in humans and more studies are planned. While the studies so far have shown that cannabinoids can be safe in treating cancer, they do not show that they help control or cure the disease. Relying on marijuana alone as treatment while avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences. Marijuana can also pose some harms to users. Smoked marijuana delivers THC and other cannabinoids to the body, but it also delivers harmful substances to users and those close by, including many of the same substances found in tobacco smoke. The effects can also differ based on how deeply and for how long the user inhales. Likewise, the effects of ingesting marijuana orally can vary between people. Also, some chronic users can develop an unhealthy dependence on marijuana. There are 2 chemically pure drugs based on marijuana compounds that have been approved in the US for medical use. Nabiximols is a cannabinoid drug still under study in the US. Based on a number of studies, dronabinol can be helpful for reducing nausea and vomiting linked to chemotherapy. Dronabinol has also been found to help improve food intake and prevent weight loss in patients with HIV. Research is still being done on this drug. Like many other drugs, the prescription cannabinoids, dronabinol and nabilone, can cause side effects and complications. Some people have trouble with increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure especially when standing up , dizziness or lightheadedness, and fainting. They can also worsen depression, mania, or other mental illness. Some patients taking nabilone in studies reported hallucinations. The drugs may increase some effects of sedatives, sleeping pills, or alcohol, such as sleepiness and poor coordination. Patients have also reported problems with dry mouth and trouble with recent memory. People who have had emotional illnesses, paranoia, or hallucinations may find their symptoms are worse when taking cannabinoid drugs. Talk to your doctor about what you should expect when taking one of these drugs. The American Cancer Society supports the need for more scientific research on cannabinoids for cancer patients, and recognizes the need for better and more effective therapies that can overcome the often debilitating side effects of cancer and its treatment. The Society also believes that the classification of marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration imposes numerous conditions on researchers and deters scientific study of cannabinoids.