Exploring How CBD Can Help Reduce Cancer’s Side Effects

While CBD has been used medicinally and recreationally for centuries, its potential role in cancer treatment is still a subject of ongoing research. Customers have reported improvements in their symptoms however it is vital to approach CBD as a complementary therapy to reduce side effects rather than a cure. In this blog, we explore the scientific studies on CBD and cancer, the reasons patients turn to it, and what the current evidence says about its effectiveness.

Why Cancer Patients Use CBD

Cancer patients often experience significant pain, nausea, inflammation, and anxiety as a result of their condition and the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy. Traditional medications, including opioids, are typically prescribed to alleviate these symptoms, but they can have adverse effects such as sleepiness, constipation, and respiratory depression.

As a result, some cancer patients turn to CBD oils as a complementary treatment. CBD, a compound found in the hemp plant, does not cause the “high” associated with THC, but it has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anti-anxiety properties. Patients often seek relief from symptoms without the side effects of conventional medications. Many report improvements in their quality of life, though scientific evidence is still in its early stages.

What Does the Research Say?

While anecdotal evidence from cancer patients suggests that CBD may help alleviate symptoms, scientific research on CBD’s effectiveness in treating cancer is still developing. However, from previous studies we can see how CBD oils may help reduce some of the symptoms of cancer treatments:

1. Pain and Symptom Relief

CBD has been studied for its ability to relieve some of the side effects of cancer and its treatments.

A 2020 review noted that CBD could have benefits for relieving chronic pain, including pain associated with cancer and its treatments. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, CBD helps reduce inflammation and modulate pain signals, offering relief without the side effects of traditional pain medications like opioids.

2. CBD for Anxiety in Cancer Patients

Anxiety is a common challenge for cancer patients, often due to the stress of diagnosis and treatment. CBD may help reduce anxiety by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, which influence mood and stress levels.

A 2019 analysis found that CBD could ease anxiety and improve sleep, making it a potential option for cancer patients seeking relief from anxiety symptoms . While many patients report positive effects, more research is needed, and CBD should be used under medical supervision to ensure it doesn’t interfere with ongoing treatments.

3. CBD for Fatigue in Cancer Patients

Fatigue is a common issue for cancer patients, often caused by treatments like chemotherapy. While CBD is usually associated with relaxation, it may help alleviate fatigue by improving sleep quality and reducing pain and inflammation, which can disrupt rest. Research suggests that by addressing chronic pain and sleep disturbances, CBD may help combat fatigue indirectly .

Additionally, CBD’s ability to reduce anxiety could further aid in managing fatigue by promoting more restful sleep. Although promising, more research is needed, and patients should consult their healthcare provider before using CBD as part of their fatigue management plan.

The Future of CBD in Cancer Treatment

Experts agree that more research is needed before CBD can be widely recommended as a treatment for cancer. There are still many unanswered questions about the safe and effective dosing of CBD, how it interacts with cancer treatments like chemotherapy, and whether it has any long-term effects on cancer progression.

While some patients have reported improvements in their symptoms, it is vital to approach CBD as a complementary therapy to reduce side effects rather than a cure. Cancer patients should always consult their healthcare provider before incorporating CBD or any cannabis-based products into their treatment plan.

Conclusion

CBD holds promise as a supportive symptom reducer for cancer patients, particularly in managing pain, nausea, and inflammation. However, there is not yet enough clinical evidence to recommend it as a standalone cancer treatment. For now, CBD should be used with caution and in consultation with a healthcare professional. Future research will help to better understand its role, especially in combination with other therapies, and clarify safe and effective dosing for cancer patients.

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DISCLAIMER: This content was developed for purely informational purposes and does not constitute healthcare advice. All the information is generalised and is from referenced third parties. HempWell does not offer medical advice. HempWell’s CBD products are sold as food supplements. If you have any concerns about taking CBD, please contact your healthcare provider, especially if you are on medication.