CBD, a naturally occurring compound in cannabis plants, may have some potential as a cancer treatment. However, more research is necessary to confirm if it actually helps combat cancer.
Studies have demonstrated that CBD helps ease the discomfort, nausea, and loss of appetite that may arise as a consequence of cancer treatment. Furthermore, it possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects.
Anti-Tumoral Effects
Studies have demonstrated the anti-tumoral effects of CBD on cancer cells, such as lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal. These properties stem from the inhibition of cell proliferation and death as well as the activation of apoptosis and stress pathways within cells.
In several glioma cell lines, CBD inhibited their proliferation and invasiveness by upregulating p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), as well as apoptotic kinases such as phosphorylated protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK). Furthermore, CBD suppressed hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1a expression, downregulated pro-survival signaling pathways, and caused cytochrome c release from the nucleus.
In oxaliplatin-resistant DLD-1 and colo205 CRC cells, CBD (4 uM) decreased nitric oxide synthase (NOS3) activity to induce autophagic cell death. This reduction may explain CBD’s ability to sensitize CRC cells to chemotherapy treatment while eliminating drug resistance.
Analgesic Effects
Many cancer patients suffer from pain associated with both their disease and treatment, and CBD may help alleviate this discomfort. Studies have also demonstrated that CBD reduces nausea and vomiting (N/V) caused by chemotherapy treatments.
Studies have suggested that Cannabis-based medicines such as dronabinol and nabilone may help manage symptoms associated with chronic sickness; however, other anti-sickness drugs remain needed.
Some research suggests the phytocannabinoids present in Cannabis interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and may activate anti-cancer signaling pathways. However, further study is necessary to establish whether and how this impacts cancer cell growth and spread.
Despite a lack of high-quality research evidence, many physicians are turning to medicinal Cannabis for treating cancer-related pains and side effects. This review strives to contribute to this field by providing an overview of clinical research studies which demonstrate the analgesic effects of medicinal cannabis on cancer patients.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Research is ongoing into the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. This includes its potential to reduce inflammation in the body and boost immune function.
Furthermore, there is mounting evidence demonstrating cannabinoids can help fight cancer cells. This is likely due to their interactions with specific receptors in both the immune system and the brain.
Animal studies have demonstrated that cannabinoids inhibit cancer cell growth and shrink tumors, as well as stop their spread to other parts of the body. Furthermore, these compounds reduce side effects experienced by cancer patients.
Anti-Anxiety Effects
CBD, either alone or combined with THC, has demonstrated promise in relieving cancer-associated pain, nausea and vomiting, sleep issues, and oral mucositis. Studies suggest it could even enhance traditional treatments such as chemotherapy agents or radiation therapy while protecting against neural and organ damage.
One of the most prevalent side effects of cancer and cancer treatment is pain, which may be caused by inflammation or pressure on internal organs. Cannabis can provide some temporary relief by acting on CB2 receptors.
Preclinical research has demonstrated that CBD is an effective anti-cancer agent. It inhibits cell migration and invasion, reduces tumor size, increases survival rates, decreases vascularization, and induces apoptosis in glioma cells. Furthermore, it activates the TRPV2 pathway which may reduce cancer cell numbers as well as make human tumors more sensitive to drug-induced apoptosis. Best of all? CBD doesn’t make you feel high – making it perfect for people with anxiety disorders who want an anti-psychedelic alternative.
