In recent years, CBD oil has attracted considerable attention for its management potential
symptoms related to cancer and its treatment. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many
compounds known as cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Researchers were especially interested in its therapeutic properties, which do not include the psychoactive effects associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another well-known cannabinoid.
What is CBD oil?
CBD oil is obtained from the cannabis plant. By extracting the CBD and then diluting it with
with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil, creates a product with an array
medicinal properties without a high THC content. It became popular because of the potential benefits for pain, inflammation and to help manage a variety of conditions, including anxiety and cancer. With the increase in the proportion of patients who, in addition to standard treatment, use some form of alternative medicine
therapy, the popularity of CBD oil is also on the rise.
Possible roles for CBD in cancer patients include:
1. Pain relief
One of the most touted benefits of CBD oil in the context of cancer is its ability
pain relief. Cancer patients often endure severe pain caused by the progression of the disease or as a side effect of oncological treatment, for example chemotherapy. Pain is a feeling in the patient it can negatively affect the overall functioning and significantly reduce the quality of life. CBD can work with receptors in the brain and immune system to reduce inflammation and eased the pain. Studies show that CBD significantly reduces inflammation and neuropathic pain, for which it is known to be difficult to treat [1].
2. Antiemetic effects
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of oncology therapy, and are mostly associated with chemotherapy. Traditional anti-vomiting drugs can help, and are often used in during treatment of oncological patients, they are routinely used with satisfactory results.
However, some patients find that these drugs are ineffective, leading to permanent
discomfort. A number of studies suggest that cannabinoids such as CBD and THC may act as antiemetics, improving the symptoms of nausea and vomiting [2].
3. Stimulation of appetite
Many cancer patients suffer from loss of appetite, which can lead to significant weight loss
weight, anemia and general weakness. Such a significant drop in body mass is manifested in the first place loss of muscle mass and brings with it a worse prognosis for the patient. THC is known for its ability to increase appetite, but CBD also plays a role in helping patients maintain appetite during chemotherapy.
4. Potential in the fight against cancer
Certainly the most interesting aspect of using CBD oil in oncology patients is its
potential antitumor properties. Research has shown that CBD can
reduce the growth rate of certain cancer cells and can cause the death of tumor cells [3].
At the same time, it should be noted that most of such scientific evidence was obtained in
laboratory conditions, which does not automatically mean that the stated results can be mapped to the use of CBD oil in sick people. The US National Cancer Institute (NCI) notes that CBD can relieve cancer symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment. However, NCI does not support u completely no form of cannabis as a cancer treatment due to limited research and mixed results of previous studies.
Scientific evidence and studies
In vitro and animal studies: Several studies have shown that CBD exhibits anti-inflammatory,
analgesic and anticancer properties in vitro (in this way, research is carried out
on cells or biological molecules outside their normal biological environment; on
for example proteins or cells are maintained in artificial culture media) and in vivo (in living
organisms). For example, a 2011 study published in Molecular Cancer Therapeutics
showed that CBD can induce programmed cell death in breast cancer cells
by co-activation of internal pathways that regulate apoptosis [4].
Clinical trials: There are ongoing clinical trials examining the effects of CBD on different species cancer. These studies may help clarify the role of CBD oil in cancer treatment. Data from tests of this type are necessary in order to support (or refute) preclinical findings, and
are a prerequisite for the use of CBD oil in human treatment. For now, we have no reliable studies of this of the type that have been completed and that have given the "green light" to CBD oil in the treatment of cancer.
Legal and security considerations
CBD is legal in many parts of the world, but its legal status can vary dramatically
vary. It is essential to check local laws before purchasing CBD products. As for security,
Although CBD is considered relatively safe, in some people it can cause side effects such as
diarrhea and fatigue. It can also interact with other medications. Therefore, it is crucial
consult a doctor before starting any new treatment plans, especially if
include CBD oil.
In conclusion, CBD oil represents a promising, non-toxic agent to support the treatment of cancer thanks to its pain-relieving, anti-emetic and potential properties
anticancer properties. However, more extensive clinical trials are needed in order to
fully established its effectiveness and safety. Patients interested in research
CBD oils for cancer treatment should be discussed with their oncology team in order to
adapted a safe and effective regimen.
CBD oil continues to be studied extensively, providing hope and much-needed relief
cancer patients. With ongoing research, the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD are becoming more clearly, paving the way for new treatment protocols that could better manage the complexity cancer symptoms and side effects of its treatment.
References
1. Fine, P. G., & Rosenfeld, M. J. (2013). Cannabinoids for Neuropathic Pain. BJJ.
2. Parker, L. A., Rock, E. M., & Limebeer, C. L. (2011). Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids. British Journal of Pharmacology.
3. Massi, P., Solinas, M., Cinquina, V., & Parolaro, D. (2013). Cannabidiol as potential
anticancer drug. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
4. Shrivastava, A., Kuzontkoski, P. M., Groopman, J. E., & Prasad, A. (2011). Cannabidiol
induces programmed cell death in breast cancer cells by coordinating the cross-talk between apoptosis and autophagy. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics.