Cancer and Tumors

Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and can spread to other parts of the body. It can arise in virtually any tissue and disrupt normal bodily functions. Tumors are abnormal masses of tissue that can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumors do not spread, while malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues and metastasize (spread) to distant parts of the body. Cannabinoids like CBD and THC, derived from the cannabis plant, have been researched for their potential effects on cancer and tumor-related symptoms.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that contains very low levels of THC (0.3% or less). It has been studied for its potential effects on cancer and tumor-related symptoms by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Here are some ways CBD may help:

·         Anxiety and Sleep Support: Cancer patients often experience anxiety and sleep disturbances. CBD may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

·         Nausea and Appetite Stimulation: CBD, often in combination with THC, may help manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. It may also help stimulate appetite, which is crucial for maintaining strength during cancer treatment.

·         Pain and Inflammation Relief: CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain caused by cancer or its treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation.

·         Potential Anti-Tumor Effects (Early Research): Some lab and animal studies suggest that CBD might slow the growth of certain types of tumors or even help destroy cancer cells. It may work by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, preventing metastasis, and promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancerous cells. However, these effects have mainly been observed in preclinical studies, and more human trials are needed.

Cannabis (THC and Other Cannabinoids)

THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes a euphoric or “high” feeling, has shown potential benefits for cancer patients in several ways. While it is not a cure for cancer, research suggests that it may help in the following ways:

·         Appetite Stimulation: THC may help combat cancer-related weight loss by increasing appetite, which is crucial for maintaining strength during treatment.

·         Nausea and Vomiting: THC may be effective in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (approved in drugs like Marinol and Cesamet).

·         Pain Relief: THC interacts with the body’s ECS to reduce pain, making it useful for cancer-related pain management.

·         Sleep and Anxiety: It may aid in reducing stress, anxiety, and improving sleep quality.

Some preclinical (lab and animal) studies suggest that THC and other cannabinoids might slow tumor growth or even trigger cancer cell death (apoptosis) through:

·         Angiogenesis Disruption: THC may prevent tumors from forming new blood vessels, limiting their growth.

·         Inhibiting Tumor Growth: THC may interfere with cancer cell proliferation.

·         Metastasis Reduction: Some studies indicate that THC may help stop cancer cells from spreading.

 THC for Treatment of Cancer

According to a May 2024 study conducted by Journal of Cannabis Research, there is growing evidence supporting the role of cannabinoids in numerous pathological conditions, including their role in breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers. Accordingly, cannabinoids may have promising potential as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of these types of cancers.

What is Rick Simpson Oil?

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a potent full-spectrum cannabis extract, rich in Delta-9 THC. It is most widely known through success stories with cancer patients as it was famously developed by Canadian engineer Rick Simpson to treat his diagnosed basal cell carcinoma in 2003. RSO is primarily recognized for its potential to assist in cancer treatment. While not a confirmed cure, it is used to potentially alleviate symptoms and side effects of cancer treatments, such as nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy. Some studies suggest that THC, a key component of RSO, may help in reducing the growth and spread of cancer cells.

CBG (Cannabigerol) and CBN (Cannabinol)

CBG and CBN are two lesser-known cannabinoids found in cannabis that have shown potential therapeutic effects, including anti-cancer properties. While research is still in early stages, here’s what is known so far:

CBG (Cannabigerol)

CBG is often referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because it is a precursor to other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Some studies suggest that CBG may have anti-tumor properties:

·         Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is linked to tumor progression. CBG has strong anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to slowing the growth of cancerous cells.

·         Inducing Apoptosis (Cell Death): Some studies suggest that CBG can trigger apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancerous cells, which is a key mechanism for stopping cancer from spreading.

·         Inhibiting Tumor Growth: Research has shown that CBG may inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. A 2014 study published in Carcinogenesis found that CBG reduced the growth of colorectal cancer cells and slowed down tumor progression in mice.

·         Neuroprotective Properties: Some evidence suggests CBG could protect nerve cells, which may be useful in treating glioblastoma, a type of brain tumor.

CBN (Cannabinol)

CBN is a cannabinoid with sedative properties formed as THC degrades. It has been studied less than CBG, but early findings suggest potential cancer-fighting properties:

·         Appetite Stimulation: CBN may help cancer patients by stimulating appetite, similar to THC, which is beneficial for those undergoing chemotherapy.

·         Pain and Sleep Aid: CBN has sedative effects, which can help cancer patients struggling with pain or sleep disorders due to treatment side effects.

·         Potential Anti-Tumor Effects: Some preliminary research indicates that CBN may have mild anti-cancer properties, though it is less studied compared to CBG.

How CBG and CBN Compare to CBD and THC

CBD and THC have the most research supporting their role in managing cancer symptoms and potentially inhibiting tumor growth. CBG shows promise for inhibiting tumor growth, but more research is needed. CBN is mostly beneficial for sleep and mild pain relief rather than direct anti-tumor effects.

* Important Considerations *

Early studies are promising and suggest cannabis products may be beneficial as complementary therapy but should not replace conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. While some people find relief from symptoms through cannabis products, these treatments might not work the same for everyone. Always check with a medical professional before discontinuing any medications.