Getting a cancer diagnosis is terrifying. With marijuana being touted as miracle medicine, you might be wondering about the relationship between cannabis and cancer.
To be clear, there is absolutely no evidence that supports cannabis (or anything else, for that matter) as a cure for cancer.
That said, there is limited data and anecdotal evidence that it can be part of an effective treatment plan.
The Basics of Cannabis and Cancer
Cannabis’s ability to relieve pain is well-documented. So in cases where there is pain as a result of cancer, medical marijuana may be prescribed as a front-line treatment. It also helps to ease the anxiety that comes from a cancer diagnosis.
Where cannabis seems to have the most positive benefits though is in treating the symptoms that often come from chemotherapy treatment. Multiple studies indicate that THC can effectively lessen the nausea, pain, appetite loss, inflammation, and anxiety that are side effects of this therapy. In addition, it can address insomnia.
The Impact of Cannabis on Sleep
While going through chemo therapy or other cancer treatment, it’s important that the body gets appropriate sleep in order to heal.
Cannabis is commonly used for those who either have trouble falling asleep or staying sleep. When the issue is the former, most find success with fast-acting products. This includes vaping flower or using edibles, capsules, or tinctures that are formulated to be fast-acting.
If staying asleep is the issue, cancer patients are recommended products that have long-lasting effects. Gummies, as well as certain capsules and oils, are the most effective in this arena. They stay in the system for six to eight hours. And because cannabis is a fat soluble molecule, when taken with a healthy fat such as cheese, yogurt, or peanut butter, it’s even more likely to be absorbed and hang around in the system.
What’s the Proper Dose?
While cannabis can do wonders to ease anxiety, over-consumption can have the opposite effect. So it’s a good idea to start small and experiment from there. You can always take more if it’s not effective. But you obviously can’t take less once you’ve taken too much.
Generally speaking, the rule of thumb is to do about a quarter of the suggested serving size and then wait two hours to see how it affects you. If more is needed, then take a second dose of the same amount. Everybody metabolizes cannabis differently.
It’s important to understand, however, that when pursuing cannabis as a treatment for cancer and chemo symptoms, the recommended doses are going to be higher than the suggested serving sizes. So cancer patients are advised to work with informed cannabis clinicians to ensure they’re able to effectively and safely consume those higher doses.
Considering Cannabis for Cancer Treatment?
The above information is only a very surface look at cannabis and cancer treatment. If you think it’s something you’d like to pursue, be sure to do plenty of research and find someone you trust who can help you through this difficult time.
In the meantime, for more information on what’s happening in the world of marijuana and cannabis marketing and public relations, keep checking back with our blog!