Can CBD help treat or even cure cancer?

The dreaded “c” word. Cancer. Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body. Did you know there are more than 100 types of cancer?

I’m sure we all have heard and seen it in movies, maybe even from a friend or family member that, “Marijuana can cure cancer, marijuana kills cancer cells, ect…”.  I know I have personally heard it many times but a few questions still remain. First, is there actually some truth to this? Does marijuana/CBD kill cancer cells? Two, by regularly consuming cannabis am I preventing a potential underlying cancer or potentially even treating an existing one? Unfortunately, roughly 1.9 million people will be diagnosed with cancer by the end of 2021 (Cancer.gov). One in two U.S. women will get cancer in their lifetime alongside one in three U.S men will get cancer in their lifetime ( Medical News Today).  Therefore, it is very likely we all know someone who has cancer, who currently is fighting cancer, or who lost their life to cancer. Does this person have cannabis products in their treatment? Are they aware of treatment options available to them? From CBD products to smoking herb there can be some benefits that come with the use of cannabis for treating cancer.

Over the years, there have been many studies surrounding the effects on CBD and cancer. ” In 2016, researchers noted that cannabinoids may reduce tumor growth in different types of cancers in test tube and animal models. The National Cancer Institute adds that CBD may help to enhance the uptake or increase the potency of certain drugs that doctors may use to treat cancer. A 2019 literature review  indicates that several studies found that CBD extracts may help to reduce cancer cell viability and prevent cancer cells from multiplying. A 2019 review focusing on pancreatic cancer suggests that cannabinoids may help slow tumor growth, reduce tumor invasion, and induce tumor cell death. A 2014 study also notes that CBD may have the potential to inhibit the spread of colorectal cancer cells. A 2019 study indicates that CBD may encourage cell death and make glioblastoma cells more sensitive to radiation ” (Medical News Today).  However, it is important to note that research on this topic is still in the early stages and studies will continue to take place.  Many of these studies are lab or animal-based. More research and human studies will be necessary in determining the potential anti-cancer properties of CBD oil.

Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy are known treatments that can be effective in treating cancer. Regrettably, these treatment options can result in an array of side effects. This is another place where CBD can help. CBD is known to help with nausea, pain,  sleep and appetite. It is still unclear what dosage cancer patients should use as treatment. CBD dosage may vary due to the potency of the product and the method of application. According to a 2017 review, taking up to 600 milligrams of CBD does not cause significant adverse effects (Medical News Today). As always, it is important to consult with a Doctor regarding any questions you may have.