Cancer and Cannabis

The use of Cannabis for the treatment of cancer and chemotheraphy symptoms is becoming increasingly common in our society. As there are currently many myths circulating in regards to marijuana causing cancer, we will address this misconsception first.

Does Cannabis cause Cancer?

To put it simply; No.

While cannabis contains significantly more tar and carcinogenic compounds that tobacco (a fact often quoted in literature), Scientists were surprised to learn that a study of more than 2,000 people found no increase in the risk of developing lung cancer for marijuana smokers.

Recent studies are revealing that cannabis can actually inhibit some cancer cell growth including combating brain tumors.

What symptoms can Cannabis relieve?

Although Tetrahydrocannabinol or “THC” is the most known of the compounds in marijuana, at least 66 cannabinoids have been isolated from this plant. The effects of most of these compounds is still unknown and it is widely believed that it is the combination of these chemicals which creates the diverse range of medical benefits including, but not limited to, pain relief.

One of the better known cannabinoids is the molecule Cannabidiol, also known as “CBD”. CBD is proving to be a very important compound in the medical application of cannabis. Cannabidiol has been associated with the relief of anxiety, nausea and inflammation.  In November 2007 it was discovered that CBD even reduces growth of aggressive human breast cancer cells in vitro and reduces their invasiveness.