Because CBD has no serious side effects and no psychotropic properties, cancer patients are increasingly asking, “Is CBD oil used to help treat and prevent cancer?” The answer to this question is yes. Recent studies have shown that cannabinol, the active ingredient in CBD oil, can make a positive difference in the comfort levels of patients combating a variety of types of cancer. Treating cancer with CBD oil goes beyond simple pain relief, however. A study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 2013 indicated that CBD actually inhibited the growth of cancer cells in laboratory mice. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3579246/) The anti-proliferative effects of CBD have been used to treat a number of different types of cancer, including uterine, lung, thyroid, breast, prostate and pancreatic cancers.
CBD Oil and Cancer
In December 2016, Current Oncology published a guide regarding the use of cannabinoid therapies for cancer patients. This article explores the use of CBD as a treatment for symptoms associated with cancer, including nausea, vomiting and pain. It also described a study published in 2006 in the British Journal of Cancer, which found that cannabinoids had an inhibiting effect on the proliferation of cancer cells in patients with glioblastoma multiforme, one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. The study represents one of the earliest attempts to use CBD and other cannabinoids to treat cancer directly rather than simply addressing the symptoms associated with this disease.
How CBD Works to Fight Cancer
The endocannabinoid system is part of the central nervous system in humans and other mammals. This network of receptors is integrated with the immune system, which provides one avenue of attack for CBD against cancerous cells. By activating the receptors of the endocannabinoid network and preventing them from receiving and sending signals, CBD oil treatments can provide added help in preventing the proliferation of cancer. CBD has also been shown to fight cancer cells directly by inhibiting the growth of tumor cells and increasing the effectiveness of the body’s natural immune response system. As more research is conducted on the effects of CBD and other cannabinoids as treatments for cancer, it is likely that these substances will become part of the accepted course of treatment for patients in the U.S.
How to Use CBD Oil for Cancer
CBD oil is usually taken internally for the most effective results. The prescription drug nabiximols contains CBD and other cannabinoid compounds and is available in spray form for patients in many parts of the world. CBD treatments may even offer added protection against recurrences of cancer in patients in remission. Some topical CBD oil applications are also available and are especially recommended for some cases of skin cancer. In general, choosing high-quality CBD oil with a high concentration of cannabidiol and taking it regularly can augment your other cancer treatments and can provide added help in dealing with these serious diseases. Be sure to check with your physician to determine if using CBD oil for cancer could interfere with any other drugs you may be taking or with your current course of treatment.
Related resource: What Different Types of CBD Oil are Available?
CBD oil is exceptionally safe and could provide added benefits for patients suffering from a wide range of ailments, including cancer. The initial results of research studies on the effects of CBD on cancer cells in the laboratory and in living subjects have been extremely positive. If you are still wondering, “Is CBD oil used to help treat and prevent cancer?” the answer is a definite yes.
Additional CBD Resources on Cancer
How Does CBD Oil Help People With Cancer?
